2011: Predictions and Passions Part Two

Calm of Zero will release their acoustic sessions part one shortly.
Riesling
Why ignore? Serve to dinner party guests you like. A varietal that is super impressive as an aperitif, spicy food match or dessert wine from a number of countries and producers. Check out Protege Tim Adams (Oz),Dr Loosen (Germany), Darting Estate Durkheimer Michelsberg (Germany), Chateau Ste Michelle Dry Riesling Washington State (USA)and St Clair (NZ).
Wild Flag
From Portland, Wild Flag include two ex members of Sleater-Kinney. Look out for their first album in early 2011.
South Africa
South Africa had qualified in wine terms well before The World Cup.They continue to play well, whether it is white or red between £8 and £15; and without resorting to the long ball tactic. There are so many grape varietals hitting the net in this country, backed by numerous winemakers who are delivering top quality balanced wines. Groot Constantia Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz, Diermersfontein Pinotage, Ken Forrester Sauvignon Blanc and Grenache Shiraz, Rustenberg Chardonnay and John x Merriman , La Motte Shiraz.
Coffee Shops
Stop meeting people in Starbucks and check out Freddo, Flat White, LJ Coffee House and many others. The Independent’s 50 best coffee shops will help your research.
Willi Optiz
Willi Klinger, from The Austrian Wine Marketing Board has done a great job of promoting and publicising the wines from this country. Taste wines made from Gruner Veltiner and try the a rated and award winning wines from the supreme winemaker Willi Optiz.
Finally, watch out for wines from India and Turkey this year.