Forget the same old Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay. The future of wine is here, and it's bursting with exciting new possibilities. A new generation of winemakers is pushing boundaries, experimenting with grape varietals, fermentation techniques, and aging methods. These up-and-coming wine producers are not afraid to challenge the status quo, and the results are nothing short of exciting.
The New Age Winemakers
Let us introduce you to some of these inspiring mavericks making waves in the industry and all the exciting bottles they are crafting.
Javier San Pedro Ortega (Spain)
Hailing from the Rioja region, they are calling Javier San Pedro Ortega the future of Spanish wine. Coming from a long line of winemakers in Rioja, Spain, Javier grew up in Laguardia and was already making his own wine at his dad's winery when he was seventeen years old. Javier decided to spread his wings and launch his own project in 2013 – Bodegas Javier San Pedro Ortega. Javier and his young crew are all about surprising wine lovers with a fresh twist on classic Rioja wines. Big names like wine critic Jancis Robinson are already noticing their work.
They make wines under three labels: "Cueva de Lobos" (Wolves' Cave) – which Javier describes as fun, modern, and aromatic; "Viuda Negra" (Black Widow) – made with the region's older vines; and "Anahí" – a sweet white wine named after Javier's mom. Their goal is to create genuine wines that reflect their origin, respecting the land while keeping things fresh and exciting. The Viuda Negra Crianza Rioja 2019 is a great example, with its dark fruit flavors and a touch of oak. Made from 100% Tempranillo grapes from vines over 20 years old, it's no wonder this wine is catching people's attention.
Sam Lambson (New Zealand)
Sam Lambson's passion for Syrah started while working harvests with top South African winemakers. After saving, he sourced grapes and borrowed equipment to make his first wines. Now, he rents space at a communal cellar and leases his own land to continue crafting exceptional Syrah.
Known for his natural winemaking practices, Lambson's wines, particularly those from the Canterbury region, like the delicious 2020 Elgin Syrah, are celebrated for their purity and expressive flavors. Lambson emphasizes sustainability and minimal intervention. His "hands-off" approach and commitment to organic farming and biodynamic principles are setting new standards in the industry—we are excited to see what future experiments Sam has in store.
Quinta da Pedra Alta (Portugal)
This historic Douro Valley estate has been given a new lease on life by its young owners. Terraced vineyards climb 550 meters, creating a unique microclimate that shapes the character of the grapes. This vision is brought to life by a dynamic winemaking duo: Matt Gant, an Australian with global experience, and João Pires, a local who has nurtured a deep understanding of the land since 2009.
With minimal intervention, Matt and João's expertise creates wines that are true to their Douro terroir. Traditional methods like hand-picking and foot-treading are complemented by co-fermenting white and red grapes, as seen in their innovative Pedra a Pedra Clarete 2020. This light and fragrant blend features red Tinta Barroca and Touriga Nacional grapes alongside white Donzelinho Branco and Rabigato. It offers a refreshing departure from the bold reds typically associated with the Douro.
Viviana Malafarina (Italy)
In Basilicata, Italy, Viviana is reviving ancient vineyards with a deep respect for tradition. Viviana's path to becoming general manager and winemaker at Feudi di San Gregorio's Basilisco winery is anything but ordinary. This self-proclaimed "soil freak" brings a unique perspective, honed through experiences like teaching Slavic languages in Kyiv and crewing superyachts.
Undeterred by a lack of formal wine training, Viviana thrives in this historic setting. She champions organic viticulture, some using traditional methods that intermingle vegetables and olive trees. Mentored by renowned consultants, she carefully vinifies each of the 60-acre estate's vineyards separately, maximizing the potential of every aspect. The resulting Aglianico del Vulture wines showcase the grape's elegance and power, solidifying its reputation as the "Barolo of the south." Already a local star for her dedication, Viviana's name will surely gain broader recognition in the years to come.
Az. Agr. Summer Wolff (Italy)
Newcomer Summer Wolff's journey through the wine world is as diverse as the roles she's filled: waitress, sommelier, marketer, and importer (via Hootananny Wines). Now, alongside winemaker husband Fabrizio, Wolff champions under-appreciated native grapes.
Her label features a skin-contact Baratuciat from their estate vineyard and a Freisa sourced from Rosalba, a local legend known for her organic vineyards. These are truly women-made wines, with Wolff adding a final flourish by designing the beautiful labels herself.
Looking For New Age Wines In Bangkok? Welcome To The Riddler
If you are seeking an authentic progressive dining experience, welcome to The Riddler - a Japanese-style restaurant and wine bar in Bangkok that embodies the spirit of innovation. At The Riddler, traditional Japanese cuisine meets avant-garde culinary techniques. Our chefs are not afraid to experiment, blending conventional flavors with modern twists to create dishes that are both familiar and entirely new.
But what elevates the experience is our curated wine list. Over 200 labels grace our shelves, where you can find established classics from the Old World, exciting New World discoveries, and, of course, a selection of wines from many up-and-coming new-age wine producers like the ones we mentioned above.
New-age wine producers are unafraid to experiment, challenge conventions, and champion lesser-known grapes and regions. Each wine has a story to tell, leaving a lasting impression.
At The Riddler, we embody this spirit of exploration. Our wine list is designed to complement our progressive menu perfectly. Each wine is chosen for its individual excellence and for enhancing the flavors of the dishes. Our expert sommeliers will help you pair our progressive cuisine and select wines for a truly unique dining experience in Bangkok.
Reserve A Table Today
So, if you're looking to expand your palate and discover the future of wine, we invite you to reserve a table at The Riddler Japanese Gastronomic Dining & Wine Bar.
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