Alf Tumble’s "Best Wines of the Year 2024" presents a curated selection of his personal favorites across various price points, focusing on wines released through Systembolaget, Sweden’s alcohol retail monopoly. These wines, largely sold out by the time of the list’s publication, were primarily available as limited releases, online exclusives, or through special order. Tumble anticipates many will return in the 2025 vintage, potentially with adjusted pricing. His selections encompass a diverse range of regions and styles, offering a valuable guide for wine enthusiasts seeking exceptional bottles.
Budget-Friendly Gems (Under 150 SEK): This category emphasizes value without compromising quality. Tumble highlights the expressive Spanish Mencía, Michelini i Mufatto En El Camino 2021, expressing his desire for its inclusion in Systembolaget’s permanent collection. He also praises the aromatically captivating Rabl Gelber Muskateller Langenlois 2023 from Austria and the summery Greek Hatzimichalis Assyrtiko Alepotrypa 2023. For Italian wine lovers, the charcuterie-friendly Monterustico Dolcetto 2021 offers rustic charm, while the unique French Négrette, La Folle Noire d’Ambat Le Roc 2021, presents a distinctive and food-versatile option. Finally, the refreshing Portuguese Alvarinho, Anselmo Mendes Alvarinho Contacto 2023, represents the best of Vinho Verde.
Mid-Range Marvels (150-250 SEK): Stepping up in price reveals a selection of refined and complex wines. Tumble champions the elegant Vigneau-Chevreau Vouvray Cuvée Silex 2022, a classic expression of Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley. He continues his appreciation for Chenin Blanc with the mineral-driven Domaine Terre d’Aigle Savennieres Les Deux 2022. The robust Font de Courtedune Côtes du Rhône Vieilles Vignes 2022 earns praise as an exceptional value Rhône blend. From Italy, the highly sought-after Girolamo Russo ’a Rina Etna Rosso 2022 provides an excellent introduction to the volcanic wines of Etna. Representing orange wines, the Nestarec Oragech 2022 from the Czech Republic showcases vibrant citrus notes. Finally, the classic white Burgundy, Domaine Trouillet Mâcon-Vinzelles Les Morandes 2021, delivers exceptional quality for its price.
Prestige Picks (250-500 SEK): This category features wines of exceptional quality and pedigree. Tumble highlights the elegant Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco 2019, a benchmark Nebbiolo from Piedmont. From Oregon, the Cristom Mt Jefferson Cuvée Pinot Noir 2022 and Evening Land Seven Springs Chardonnay 2022 impress with their Burgundian elegance. Representing South Africa, the Alheit Hemelrand Vine Garden 2021 showcases the potential of the Hemel-en-Aarde region. The highly anticipated Alain Graillot Crozes-Hermitage 2021 offers a compelling expression of Syrah from the Rhône Valley. Lastly, the Saint-Rémy Alsace Pinot Noir Réserve 2022 champions the resurgence of Alsatian red wines.
Luxury Libations (Over 500 SEK): For those seeking the pinnacle of winemaking, this category presents truly exceptional bottles. Tumble lauds the Felton Road Calvert Pinot Noir 2022 from New Zealand, highlighting its exquisite fruit and terroir expression. The Von Winning Forster Pechstein Riesling GG 2022 from Germany offers a powerful and complex Riesling experience. For Champagne enthusiasts, the Bollinger PN VZ19 delivers a rich and age-worthy expression of Pinot Noir dominance. The Levet Côte-Rôtie Améthyste 2020 represents a powerful and aromatic Syrah from the Rhône, ideal for cellaring. The Biondi-Santi Rosso di Montalcino 2021, though a "second wine," showcases exceptional Sangiovese quality. Finally, the Antonin Guyon Aloxe-Corton 1er Cru Les Fournières 2021 demonstrates that exceptional Burgundy can still be found at a reasonable price.
Tumble’s list encompasses a broad spectrum of wine styles, from crisp whites and elegant Pinot Noirs to powerful Syrahs and age-worthy Nebbiolos. His selections highlight both established regions and emerging terroirs, providing a diverse and insightful exploration of the world of wine. While many of these wines are currently unavailable, their inclusion on this list serves as a valuable guide for future vintages and similar styles to seek out. It underscores the dynamic nature of the wine market and the constant evolution of quality and value across different regions.
The list emphasizes the importance of exploring beyond the familiar, encouraging wine enthusiasts to discover new favorites and broaden their palates. By showcasing both accessible and high-end options, Tumble provides a comprehensive resource for wine lovers of all levels. His selections reflect a deep appreciation for both traditional winemaking practices and innovative approaches, demonstrating the vibrant and ever-evolving nature of the wine world. Ultimately, this "Best of" list serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of wine and its ability to connect people with place and experience.
