Top Terroir: Dwayne Savoie's Producer Picks

On Top Terroir we ask a different wine expert who his or her favorite wine producers currently are. We can't promise they'll be in your local wine store, but we will tell you where to look for them online. In this installment, Dwayne Savoie, sommelier for The Setai in Miami, shares his picks:

 

Producer: Neudorf Vineyards

Location: Martinborough, New Zealand

Why? With a sea of New Zealand wines on the market, Neudorf has remained distinct for more than 30 years by producing astounding value-priced Burgundian-style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Not to mention, they have one of the country's best Pinot Gris.

 

Producer: De Toren

Location: Stellenbosch, South Africa

Why? Because these wines truly over-deliver. Their flagship wine is called Fusion V and is a Bordeaux-style blend that is reminiscent of the first growth Château Latour. The Fusion Z (priced lower) has more Merlot in the blend and drinks like a mature Pomerol. Be sure not to miss these great age-worthy wines.

 

Producer: Montepeloso

Location: Tuscany, Italy

Why? It is one the highest quality, small production wines in all of Europe. Montepeloso makes only four wines from different vineyards comprised of old vine Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Each vineyard has an impeccable reputation for giving the wines a very unique terroir flavor. It would be difficult to find a winery anywhere in the world with more passion, humility and sheer focus.