Gamay

Flavors of black and red fruits such as raspberries, cherries, blackberries, and gooseberries.

Vintage:

• 2021

ABV:

• 10.9%

Funky Scale:

Mostly Funky

Style:

Complex

Region: Auvergne, France

Vivanterre, crafted by Patrick Bouju and Justine Loiseau in France's Auvergne region, was founded by Rosie and Max Assoulin, with support from renowned sommelier Cedric Nicaise. Made from organically and biodynamically farmed grapes, and vinified using natural methods, Vivanterre embodies the essence of the "Living Earth" from which it originates.

Shiraz/Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon

Blackberries, cherries, licorice, and roasted coffee

Vintage:

• NV

ABV:

• 13.5%

Funky Scale:

Middle of the Road

Style:

Food Wine

Region: Robe,

Karatta Wines is owned by David & Peg Woods, wine lovers who established their farm, Griffin Pastoral Company, in 1975. Today, they strive to craft wines that encapsulate their unique piece of ancient seabed soils, maritime winds, and cool temperatures. Their Robe vineyards are truly exceptional examples of Australian terroir located in Robe, a maritime sub-region of the Limestone Coast, half-way between Adelaide and Melbourne. -Little Peacock Imports

Cabernet Franc

Ripe red berries, green pepper, earthy undertones, subtle spice

Vintage:

• 2022

ABV:

• 12.5%

Funky Scale:

Middle of the Road

Style:

Region: Elgin, South Africa

Pieter Kruger and Kosie Van Der Merwe own a negociant winery with operations in both Elgin, South Africa, and Mosel, Germany. This unique setup allows them to source grapes and produce wines in two distinct wine regions, each renowned for its own varietals and terroir. In Elgin, known for its cool climate, they have access to a diverse range of grape varieties, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc. Meanwhile, in Mosel, famous for its Riesling, they can take advantage of the region's steep slopes and slate soils to create high-quality wines with a distinctive character. By owning and operating in both regions, Kruger and Van Der Merwe can explore different winemaking techniques and styles while showcasing the best of each region's unique characteristics.

Chenin Blanc, Muscat

Yellow Apple, Pear, Peach and Chamomile.

Vintage:

• 2022

ABV:

• 12.4%

Funky Scale:

Mostly Classic

Style:

Glou Glou

Region: Swartland, South Africa

Tremayne Smith's journey into winemaking began in East London, where he initially pursued a career as a chef. Influenced by his father's passion for wine, he transitioned into the world of winemaking. After completing his studies, he honed his skills as the assistant winemaker and vineyard manager at Sijnn, followed by a stint at Mullineux, before assuming the role of winemaker at Fable. In 2014, Tremayne embarked on his own venture, The Blacksmith, driven by his experiences working with varietals like Cinsault, Carignan, and Grenache, both locally and abroad. The ethos of The Blacksmith centers on crafting natural wines that captivate the senses and resonate with the soul. Tremayne possesses a profound understanding of the nuances involved in producing natural wines.

Muller Thurgau, Silvaner

Pear, peach, guava, green apple, and jasmine.

Vintage:

• 2021

ABV:

• 11.5%

Funky Scale:

Middle of the Road

Style:

Glou Glou

Region: Volkach, Germany

2Naturkinder, spearheaded by Melanie Drese and Michael Völker, represents a dynamic shift in winemaking practices at their family winery established in 1843 along the banks of the river Main in northern Bavaria. Since taking the reins in 2012, they've revolutionized their approach, converting all 7 hectares of vineyards to organic farming methods. Their commitment extends beyond cultivation, as they craft wines without additives and eschew fining and filtering, exemplified even in their Vater & Sohn blend, which contains no added sulfites. Evolving from a parametric understanding to a holistic ethos, they view soil not merely as a substrate but as a living entity intricately connected to the ecosystem.