Solo Contigo Boutique Winery | Miami
Given its hype, it's easy to forget that Sobe Wine and Food Fest started as a humble wine fair.
While lunching at one of the Tongue & Cheek events last weekend, we got a pleasant reminder of the festival's humble beginnings when we were introduced to Canadian wanderlusters Noel and Terry Neelands' boutique Argentinian winery, Solo Contigo (which means "only with you").
The couple fell in love with the country's culture during a trip to Mendoza valley. They bought a vineyard and started making wine for themselves, but it has since turned into a line of wines that has garnered rave reviews from Robert Parker and the InterVin International Wine Awards. The wine is now making its way into the country through some of Miami's trendier restos and wine shops.
We aren't the only fans in town: Meat Market's sommelier, Orli Vadai, has been raving to diners about the award-winning Reserva Malbec 2010 ($99 at Meat Market). "I find it to be elegant yet complex. It's actually my favorite Malbec to recommend and has never disappointed a guest," she explains. "It pairs well with Chef Sean Brasel's prime cuts of meats and creative dishes."
Torrontés is a relatively unknown varietal indigenous to Argentina's Rioja region
We were also captivated by the crisp, moderately acidic Premium Torrontés 2011 ($45 at Tongue & Cheek). Its grapefruit and floral aromas are refreshing and would pair well with seafood, particularly T&C's Turks and Caicos conch salad.
The wines have begun spreading beyond Miami's city limits, so enjoy them while they're ours alone.