TASTE Spring2025

Luis Segundo Las Acequias Mendoza Malbec

Warm Climate Wines Background on Warm Climates Warm climates bring ample sunshine and long growing seasons with consistent temperatures, so grapes can easily reach full ripeness. In these regions, the extra sunshine translates to higher sugar levels in the grapes, which in turn means higher alcohol content and softer acidity in the wine. With each sip, you’re likely to notice the warmth in the wine—a roundness and richness that creates a fruit-forward experience. Warm Climate Landscapes Imagine the expansive vineyards of the Napa Valley, the sun-drenched hillsides of South Australia or the rolling hills and sun-soaked plains of regions like Argentina’s Mendoza or Italy’s Sicily. These areas are arid and depend on strategic irrigation to ensure consistent quality. Warm climate regions usually yield fewer, larger clusters of grapes rich with sugars, perfect for producing the dense, flavourful wines they’re known for.

Argentina $26.99 466722 Black fruits dominate this wine, with black plum and blackberry flavours leading to a ripe and robust mouth feel. It is medium-bodied with hints of cocoa and raisin on the finish.

Classic Warm Climate Varieties Grenache : Known for lush strawberry, raspberry and sometimes spicy pepper notes. Malbec : Deeply coloured, with blackberry, dark cherry and subtle earthy undertones. Merlot : Soft and rich, with ripe plum and black cherry flavours and rounded tannins. Mourvèdre : Flavours of blackberry and plum, with herbal hints. Tempranillo : Smooth, with red berry and earthy tones and often a hint of leather. Warm Climate Countries • Argentina • Australia • France (Languedoc, Rhône Valley) • Italy • South Africa • Spain • United States (California)

Brunel de la Gardine Côtes du Rhône France $23.99 208942 A classic GSM blend from the southern Rhône, with 60 percent Grenache and equal parts Syrah and Mourvèdre, this wine has blackberry, cherry and leather notes with a luxurious mouth-filling finish.

Characteristics of Warm Climate Wines

Due to the longer, sunnier growing season, warm climate wines generally have higher alcohol content, contributing to a fuller body and a warming sensation when tasted. White wines typically show off ripe or tropical notes, such as pineapple or melon, while red wines show off dark fruit flavours like blackberries, cherries and plums, along with subtle spice notes. They also develop riper, softer tannins, making them feel smooth on the palate. When tasting, look for these traits and expect flavours to be generous, a hallmark of wines that enjoy extended sun exposure. Warm Climate Winemaking Styles Warm climate winemakers often embrace oak aging

Torres Celeste Ribera del Duero Crianza Tempranillo Spain $29.99 384040 This Tempranillo is lush and expressive, with ripe black fruits, dried fig, and a touch of mocha. Notes of vanilla and spice with silky tannins elevate the finish.

and blending techniques to enhance the wines’ richness and amplify fruit and spice notes. Oak barrels lend warm climate wines added texture and complexity, creating robust profiles that highlight the ripe character of the region’s fruit.

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