Roberto Actis, is a 29 year old Italian Argentine working in wine communications and consulting.  He collaborates with various Italian, Spanish and Argentine newspapers, magazines and websites, writing about the wine market including the latest trends.  Currently, Roberto resides in Barcelona, collaborating externally with the Codorníu Group.    He can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   Here are Roberto’s Wine Picks for November.  Salute!

CODORNIU PINOT NOIR
Codorníu Pinot Noir was the first Spanish sparkling wine made entirely from the esteemed varietal. The elegant Pinot Noir gives a brut that is bold and elegant with lovely pale cherry tones. With an intense aroma of red fruit and citrus, full of freshness and vivacity, this is a Cava which is different and authentic. Perfect with salmon and raw oily fish (such as sashimi, sushi and carpaccio), grilled fish, appetizers and Thanksgiving turkey!

ORIGINAL 1872
An outstanding traditional Cava, at a great value.  Primary aromas are citrus, almond flowers, and coconut - complemented by honey and toasty aromas from ageing.    On the palate, very fresh with fine bubbles and well-balanced freshness. Ideal as an apéritif or to accompany tapas.

QUARA TORRONTES
Made from the torrontes grape this is “the white wine” of Argentina - with intense floral aromas, backed up by lemon and orange notes, and hints of white peach. Unlike many aromatic varieties, Quara retains bright acidity at maturity. A wine that will please your entire palate, and a perfect match with most foods, especially Asian dishes.

SEPTIMA GRAN RESERVA 2007
An elegant Malbec from Argentina shows rich ruby color with purple hues - complex and aromatic fragrances, with a pleasant oak taste and complemented by flavors of violet, dark chocolate and strawberry jam.   It unfolds in many pleasant sensations.  This wine starts warm and sweet, with tannic structure, good body and well balanced.  It finishes with red fruit jam and long lasting oak flavors.   A perfect combination for this wine is a high quality cigar or dark chocolate.

MASI CAMPOFIORIN
Produced from the same grapes as Amarone, this wine shows deep ruby red color with violet tinges on the edges.   An intense bouquet, with hints of ripe berry fruit, baked plums and cherries.  On the palate, it is a full-bodied and velvety wine with hints of bitter cherries and cooked fruit.  It combines simplicity and grace with power and majesty. A wine loved by collectors aging at least 10 to 15 years.  Enjoy with strong flavor food, or perfect for to just “drink and think.”

 
THE SPANISH QUARTER 2007
Produced from Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo grapes, this wine has a deep purple red color. The nose has aromas of ripe dark berry fruits with hints of dark chocolate and vanilla oak. The palate brings us a juicy ripe black berry fruit, dark chocolate with hints of sweet oak, and a rich texture. At the end we can enjoy the ripe dark berry fruit and the sweet oak tannin length giving at the wine a very lovely
finish.  Enjoy with soft cheeses, basic pasta sauces, and autumn barbecues.

RAIMAT TEMPRANILLO VIÑA 43
100% tempranillo, this red wine has subtle flavors of bright dark berry and cherry fruits integrated with spice and oak flavors. The wine has fine tannins and clean fruit acid length.  It pairs perfectly with all meats; especially white meats such as turkey and duck. It also matches well with vegetarian dishes, savory pies, cured cheeses, red meats and legumes.

GRAPPA DI AMARONE SEREGO ALIHIERI
The Serego Alighieri estate, in Gargagnago di Valpolicella, is the property of a family descended from the great poet Dante, since 1353.  The wine is a soft sophisticated white grappa - most attractive to drink, and pleasingly alcoholic in strength. Its delicate and elegant bouquet is reminiscent of the grapes of origin. Complex tastes but easy-to-enjoy.  An immediate perception of sweetness on the palate gives way to a dry taste and aftertaste. Perfectly balanced and a fantastic combination with Roquefort cheese.