With the year drawing to a close, we asked our 2011 TOP|SOMM and Top New Somm finalists to highlight five favorite, impactful new releases from the past year, regardless of price. Selections from each finalist are not listed in any particular order. Price is approximate retail, with importers in parenthesis where appropriate.
Ian Cauble (The Ritz Carlton at Half Moon Bay, CA) TOP|SOMM 2011
Desi Echavarrie (French Laundry, CA) Top New Somm 2011
Unfortunately up here in Massachusetts, we're usually a vintage behind on a lot of juice, so what I've been tasting recently doesn't qualify as current release. We like to remain a step behind the rest of the world and scoff at them from afar.
Though, in all seriousness, the Westport Rivers sparkling is ridiculously good for New World bubbles. And it doesn't hurt that the family that runs the winery also makes some damn good beer. It is always a fun spot to visit!