RISING STARS: New Zealand; Chile & Argentina (Click for more detail)

For some time now, Divine Fine Wines has picked out New Zealand;Chile and Argentina as the main countries to watch in the New World. We are pleased to see that wine awards and trade figures appear to be confirming this.

Divine Fine Wines has always been a big fan of Kiwi wines, as we believe they exude high quality; distinctive expression; and elegance - and at affordable prices. They also place high emphasis on environmentally friendly methods, with minimal use of pesticides and chemicals - that is increasingly important in our minds.

New Zealand wine regions have growing conditions similar to those of the Loire and Burgundy, hence the success of their sauvignon blanc; chardonnay; and pinot noir wines.
Recent stars have included Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc - released in 2009 by the guy who started Cloudy Bay, Kevin Judd. My first score on UK releases was 91/100. Also, Wild Earth Pinot Noir from Central Otago - the 2007 won 5 trophies at DWWA & IWC. Palliser and Spy Valley continue at the top of the Tree, piling up yet more awards.

Chile is gaining ground fast in the UK, and only two countries get more mentions in the UK Press (France & Australia). The quality / price ratio is excellent. Our Chocalan and Casa Rivas wines are among the best in Chile at their modest price points. Los Vascos Grande Reserve shows what Chile can do when faced with the challenge of producing a Bordeaux look-alike. Owned by Rothschild, this wine excels at not much more than a tenner.

Argentina now joins Chile as great exponents of quality wines offering best value for money. We are massive fans of Catena. Owner, Nicolas Catena was (deservedly) Decanter Wine man of the Year in 2009. His flag-ship wine - Catena Zapata - has gained wonderful scores from R parker. 2005 98pts; 2006 97pts. But all the way down their range, you will find stunning value and wines that have elegance and purity.

So, we recommend that you watch New Zealand; Chile and (especially) Argentina over the next few years, and make an effort to try their wines.