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106 { THE SOMM JOURNAL } OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2017 Muri-Gries 2014 Abtei Muri Lagrein Riserva, Alto Adige, Italy Alto Adige's climate is extremely distinct climate: From its elevation to its basin, the region presents many different microclimates as well. In its elevated vineyards, white varieties thrive; in its warmer regions within the basin near Lake Caldaro, it delivers compelling expressions of varieties only grown in this unusual place—enter Lagrein. Lagrein is a dense, dark, fruity and sometimes meaty red variety exclu - sive to Alto Adige. It is a descendant of Teroldego, another autochtho- nous northern Italian variety, and is related to Pinot Noir and Syrah as well. It grows well in the quartz-porphyry soils that surround Bolzano, especially on the Moritzing site where the best Lagrein grows. These soils retain heat, which allows the grapes to fully ripen and helps control vigor. The Muri-Gries 2014 Abtei Muri Lagrein Riserva saw a short macera - tion, as well as a short time spent in barrel, to enhance its expression without hindering its nature and terroir. See more on Alto Adige on page 76. San Simeon 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, CA Paso Robles is quickly becoming a "hot spot" as it proves itself worthy of a regal title. It is, indeed, the terroir that is elevating the region to noteworthy status—a trend aided by passionate winemakers and viticulture specialists. The region offers two notable things: calcareous soils and warm weather. The soils allow drainage and the retention of acidity while the warm weather perits ripe fruit aorsthe cobination is spe - cial. The soils also possess a high degree of marine sediment from being underwater during its geologic formation, translating into a high calcium content. San Simeon 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from calcareous vineyards in the El Pomar and Creston sub-regions of Paso Robles. pecifically speain, l oar istrict offers sandstone, loam and clay. Appended to the eastern section of El Pomar and stretching farther east and south is the Creston istrict . bit warer than El Pomar, Creston still gets around 11 inches of rain per year and offers sedimentary rock, granite and fertile alluvial soils. The Riboli family has been in the wine business for 100 years, and San Simeon may just epitomize their passion and dedication to not only producing wine, but producing it for their esteemed customers. Marcke Lhyle, Northwest Regional Manager for Riboli Family Wine Estates, poses with San Simeon 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon. Alto Adige Wines Ambassador May Matta-Aliah, DWS, CWE with Muri- Gries Lagrein.