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2019 Adobe Guadalupe Rafael

Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico

Grape Varietals

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Nebbiolo
• Merlot
• Cabernet Franc

Location

Country: Mexico
Region: Baja California
Valley: Valle de Guadalupe

Cellaring

Drink now through 2032.

Already beautifully integrated, Rafael will continue developing additional savory complexity, leather and dried fruit characteristics over the coming several years.

Tasting Notes

Rafael demonstrates why Valle de Guadalupe has become Latin America’s most exciting fine wine region. Rich aromas of blackberry, black cherry and cassis intertwine with tobacco leaf, cedar, dark chocolate and Mediterranean herbs. The palate is full-bodied yet surprisingly refined, supported by polished tannins and balanced acidity. Layers of ripe black fruit, espresso, graphite, baking spices and subtle earthiness unfold across a long, elegant finish. Despite its richness, the wine retains freshness that keeps every sip balanced and engaging.

Food Pairings

This wine excels alongside grilled ribeye, lamb chops, beef short ribs, smoked brisket and slow-braised meats. It also pairs beautifully with mole sauces, roasted vegetables, Manchego cheese and aged Gouda. Its structure and complexity make it equally enjoyable with hearty Mediterranean cuisine featuring rosemary, thyme and garlic.

Producer

Adobe Guadalupe is widely regarded as one of Mexico’s pioneering premium wineries. Founded in the late 1990s in the Valle de Guadalupe, the estate combines Bordeaux-inspired winemaking with the unique climate of Baja California, where warm days, cool Pacific evenings and well-drained soils produce grapes of remarkable concentration and freshness. Sustainability, hospitality and respect for the surrounding landscape remain central to the winery’s philosophy, helping establish Adobe Guadalupe as one of the benchmark producers in Mexican wine.

2012 Poderi Morini “Augusto” Burson Rosso Ravenna IGT

Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Grape Varietals

• 100% Burson (also known as Longanesi)

Location

Country: Italy
Region: Emilia-Romagna
Appellation: Ravenna IGT

Cellaring

Drink now through 2032.

Although already beautifully mature, this rare Burson continues to show remarkable vitality. Properly cellared bottles should continue developing savory complexity, softened tannins, dried fruit and earthy nuances for several more years.

Tasting Notes

Burson is one of Italy’s rarest indigenous grape varieties, and Augusto showcases its remarkable depth and character. The wine pours an opaque ruby with garnet reflections, revealing aromas of blackberry compote, black cherry, plum preserves and dried violets layered with tobacco, cedar, leather, dark cocoa and Mediterranean herbs. Despite over a decade of age, the palate remains remarkably fresh, with firm yet integrated tannins supporting concentrated flavors of black fruit, baking spice, espresso and balsamic notes. As it opens, subtle hints of dried fig, forest floor and truffle emerge, leading to a long, savory finish. This is a fascinating wine that demonstrates both the uniqueness of Burson and its exceptional aging potential.

Food Pairings

Its bold structure makes Augusto an outstanding companion for braised short ribs, osso buco, wild boar ragù, grilled lamb and aged steaks. Traditional Emilia-Romagna specialties such as handmade tagliatelle with rich meat sauce, Parmigiano-Reggiano and aged Pecorino are exceptional matches. It also pairs beautifully with game meats, roasted mushrooms and truffle dishes.

Producer

Poderi Morini is a family-owned estate dedicated to preserving the native grape varieties of Emilia-Romagna while farming sustainably and expressing the individuality of their vineyards. The winery has become one of the leading ambassadors for Burson, a grape rescued from near extinction after being rediscovered in the early twentieth century. Through careful vineyard management and patient cellar aging, Poderi Morini demonstrates that Italy’s lesser-known indigenous varieties can produce wines every bit as compelling as the country’s more famous appellations.