Consider this immoderately tasty selection as a palate cleanser after the indulgences of Christmas. The wines are all sprightly and delicious with alcohol levels no greater than 11.5%;  sure to jolt the senses back into action, stimulating both mind and tastebuds. We shunned the old cliche of winter drinking being about bold reds and big blowsy whites, instead presenting a more digestible and, we'd argue, delicious set of wines perfect for the thinking drinker. A Modest Proposal: all you need this winter. 

Cascina Iuli, TA-DA! Rosso, Piedmonte, Italy, 2023, 11.5% 
35% Pinot Nero, 30% Slarina, 30% Baratuciat, 5% Grignolino
Fabrizio Iuli grew up in a restaurant family. For over 60 years, the Iuli family served award winning Piedmontese cuisine, but it was the local’s demand for a house wine that set Fabrizio on his current path. He planted a few more vineyards and now cultivates Nebbiolo and Pinot, but it is with his Barbera that we can see his personality shine through.

Breton, Grolleau, Restigne, Loire, France, 2023, 10.5%
100% Grolleau 
Hints of pepper, tomato leaf, earth, and juicy red fruits such as raspberry and cherry, as well as rose and cranberry flavours

DB Schmitt, Alexanderhof Riesling, Rheinehessen, Germany, 2023, 11%
100% Riesling 
Peach and pear aroma with citrus finish. Malolactic fermentation gives a harmonious acidity.

Intellego, Kedungu, Swartland, South Africa, 2022, 11.5%
Syrah, Cinsault & Mourvedre 
Syrah, the backbone of this blend, contributes to the structure and freshness of the wine. Cinsault adds a lovely mid palate and vibrance with loads of red fruits. Mourvedre is known for great tannin structure and depth as well as darker fruit. 

Arndorfer, Schlehe Amber Wine, Kamptal, Austria, 2023, 11.5%
85% Grüner Veltliner, 10% Chardonnay & 5% Neuburger
Rich deep amber colour, aromas of ripe golden plums and apricots, soft and velvety in the mouth with a hint of lees spice on the finish.

Jo Landron, Amphibolite, Muscadet, La Haie -Fouassiere, Loire, 11.5%
100% Melon de Bourgogne
This Muscadet displays lemony citrus aromas and crystal-clear features. Juicy citrus fruit bursts onto the palate with a sensation of freshness and richness, balanced by a saline and oceanic minerality provided by the terroir. The wine is harmoniously complex, combining elegance and length.