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Rick's Wine Journal 2006
Half 1 |
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See Rick's Wine Journal / Archives
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Date |
Wine - Notes and Comments
- (See
Key - See
Rating Wines) |
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June 30, 2006 - Silver Oak
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1989 - RM 89 RP 89 - Black
cherry, hint of spice, slightly earthy cedar and a long long finish of
licorice and full oak with smooth tannins. |
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June 28, 2006 - Yangarra
McLaren Vale GSM Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvedre 2003 - RM 89 WS 90 WE 92 - $20
- Black cherry and blackberry, tar, a hint of cedar and mineral with
layers of tannins on a pronounced lingering finish. Yangarra, recognized
as International Winery of the Year in 2005 by Wine & Spirits Magazine
is a member of the Kendall Jackson Vintners Group. |
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June 24-25, 2006 - Henry's
Drive Australia Padthaway Shiraz 2003 - RM 92 WA 94 - Dark inky
colour. Huge aroma and taste of jammy blackberry, essence of creme brulee,
licorice and sweet toasty oakwith a hint of pepper. RP says - "The 2003 Shiraz is a
full-bodied, opulently-styled red that smells of creme de cassis and blackberry liqueur intermixed with smoky meats, espresso
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roast, jammy
black fruits, licorice, earth, and toasty new oak. It should evolve
nicely for a decade or more." 94 points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
#161 (OCT 2005) - This was my choice but L preferred the bigger fuller
ripeness of the Mr. Riggs. Tasted w/ Mark D. with fabulous flank steak
and beets on Sat and again on Sun. Michele Chiarlo Nivole Moscato
D'Asti 2005 - RM 90 - $9 /375ml. Delightful easy drinking essence of
sparkling pear. Perfect as an aperitif, to cleanse the pallet between
courses, or after dinner on a sunny afternoon on the deck! Tasted
w L, and Erin & Johnnie after fabulous rib b-b-que dinner. |
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June 23, 2006 - Mr. Riggs 'The Gaffer' McLaren
Vale Shiraz 2005 - RM 89 - $20- Named in honor
of Ben Rigg's great great great grandfather John 'The Gaffer' Riggs who
settled their vineyards 150 years ago. Dark black crimson colour.
Classic McLaren Vale ripe fruit nose and flavors of ripe blackberry,
plum and vanilla followed by licorice and spice. Fine grained tannins,
nice balance, long aftertaste of licorice and black pepper. |
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June 21, 2006 - Château Paloumey Haut
Medoc Bordeaux 1996 - RM 87 - $29 - Earthy leathery black cherry and
berry fruit with a mild tannin finish. |
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| June 18,
2006 - Goosecross Cellars Napa Valley Howell Mountain Cabernet
Sauvignon 1996 - RM 90 - $62 - Forward cherry flavors, anise,
sweet oak, eucalyptus and a hint of chocolate taper off to intense,
even, tannin. The long lingering dry finish is accented with oak and
dark ripe Bing cherry flavors and a hint of nutmeg. The depth,
complexity and polish of this are offset by a |
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| bit of astringency
rendering a lower rating. Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley
Chardonnay 2004 - RM 90 Rich smooth, full bodied, roasted
almonds, hint of citrus and peach fruit accented by toasty oak. From
ENA's cellar who picked it up at the winery.
Great complements to flank steak and Mahi Mahi Father's Day dinner.
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June 11, 2006 - Kate's
Vineyard Sedna Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 - RM 88 $27 -
Blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25%
Syrah - layers of black fruit flavors, a hint of smoky cedar, earthy
leather, and elegant fine grained tannins and a long finish. Only 250
cases were produced. Tasted at Bob & Gloria's steak dinner. |
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June 10, 2006 - Robert
Mondavi Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1992 and 1993. 1992 -
WS 91 RM 88; 1993 - RP 93 RM 90 - A study in contrasts in this
mini-vertical tasting. The '93 opened with brilliant forward fruit of
black cherry and blackberry framed by subtle cassis and earthy leather
with a modest tannin finish. The '92 was dense, firm earthy, leather,
and a hint of cedar overarching its black cherry and berry fruit and
chewy tannins. Over the course of the evening they each took on the
characteristics of the other as the bright fruit of the 93 became more
subdued and the 92 revealed a complex, dense and chewy fruit.
Rosemount GSM
(Grenache Syrah Mouvedre) McLaren Vale 1997 - RM 87 - Not quite as
bright and full flavored as the 02 below but similar profile of
blackberry, mineral, spice and a touch of plum on the finish. The 97 is
more modest in fruit but also in the metallic minerality which tended to
detract from the 02. Norman Paso Robles Late Harvest Zinfandel 1997
- RM 88 - Great accompaniement to the chocolate browny sweet. Not as
sweet as the 36 brix and 16% alcohol would tempt but tasty black cherry
and cherry fruit none-the-less. One must remember this is not a
fortified port - the richness and density are but the product of late
harvest fruit. Tasted w/ L and Bill and Beth C at their home - perfect
complements to a wonderful beef tenderloin dinner and tasty 5 year old
aged sharp cheddar! |
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June 9, 2006 - Rosemount GSM
(Grenache Syrah Mouvedre) McLaren Vale 2002 - RM 87 - Huge bouquet.
Flavors of intense
blackberry, mineral, spice and a touch of blueberry on the finish. This
wine is a decent value at $15. Its a great value at $10 where it is
currently available at Trader Joe's. |
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June 6, 2006 - Paradigm Napa
Valley Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 1994 -
RM 92 WS 92 $45 - Dark inky color. Full
forward fruit flavors of black currant and raspberry, ripe plum, black
cherry, cedar and a hint of anise and milk chocolate on a full firm
finish. Picked up this wine at the winery during our
Napa Valley
Experience 1999.
Brigaldara Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 1997 - RP 90 RM
89 - $45 - Review from the
Wine Doctor - A
moderately deep, glossy red with a pink-tinged rim. A lovely nose,
with dark roasted fruits, fine dark chocolate and a touch of earthy
farmyard. Big, full-bodied and powerful palate, still dominated by
ripe but unintegrated, mouth-puckering tannins. There's a good
amount of dry fruit, typical Amarone texture and appropriate
acidity. I retasted after 24 hours, and the tannins were much less
prominent, giving the wine a chance to show its surfeit of sweet
blackberry and plum fruit, and its rich texture. Quite backward, and
clearly in need of another five years in the cellar.
Tasted at home w/ AJ, Dave McD, and L following the
NetM RG Workshop. |
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| June 5, 2006 -
Rosemount Estates
McLaren Vale Balmoral Shiraz 1995 - RM 90 $39 -
Dark full flavor, berry, blueberry, plum fruit, with
spice and anise. Showing age on opening but opened and softened with
a long full magnificent finish.;
Raimondi Villa
Monteleone Campo San Paolo Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOC
1997 - RM 91 $59 Big nose and flavor of rich super ripe
raisiny currant and mineral with a long full finish that is full of
mineral with hints of eucalyptus.
Marquis Phillips '9' Barossa Valley Shiraz 2001 - 92 $39 -
A bit less polished than
the 2000, but that distinctive 'burnt sugar creme brulee' taste
abounds. Full, forward rich and dense ripe fruit. HS of WS calls it
'exotic spice' taste, "very ripe and dense, with rich blackberry
jam flavors, which echo on the long silky smoky finish".;
Tasted w/ AJ, Dave McD, Scott E, L, Erin & Johnnie at home for
NetM RG Wrkshop dinner w/ L's fabulous tenderloin, lobster
medallions, and gala bakery selection. |
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June 2, 2006 - Shingleback McLaren Vale
Davey Family Vineyard Shiraz 2003 - RM 89 RP 90 WE 89 - Dark inky
colour - ripe black raspberry, plum, and a hint of oak and mineral.
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May
31, 2006 - Robert Craig Napa Valley Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
- RM 91 WS91 RP 89 Ripe, complex, smooth and polished wine,
rich currant, plum, blackberry, and what WS refers to as "toasty
mocha-laced oak and firm yet creamy texture ending with chewy tannins".
Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Tasted w/ Eric
W. at Flemmings in Tysons Corner. |
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May 30, 2006 - Shingleback D Block McLaren Vale
Shiraz 2002 - RM 91 RP 93 - Deep magenta red. Lifted strawberry and
blackberry aromas are intensified with toasty vanilla oak. Ripe berry
and mocha fills the palate and fine grained American oak enhances the
fruit flavor and structure. Tasted w/ Jim K at
Da Domenicos in Tysons
Corner. |
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May 26, 2006 -
Miner Napa Valley Zinfandel 2002 - RM 90 -
$28 - Winemakers notes say it best. - Selected from two very distinct
vineyards, one near Calistoga, the other in Chiles Valley and finished
with a dollop of Petite Sirah, this wine exudes youthful aromatics of
clove, cinnamon and tobacco backed by fruit flavors of wild raspberry
and strawberry. Tasted w/ L & Marlene at
Branmors in BBrook. Review coming. |
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| May 20, 2006 - Punters Corner
Spartacus Reserve Shiraz 1998 - RM 90 WS 90 $43 - Ripe and full
bodied, a backbone of acidity supporting focused earthy blackberry,
anise and vanilla flavors. - Hahn Estates Central Coast Meritage
2004 - RM 91 Deep purple - rich full flavored currant,
blueberry, plum, raspberry and vanilla - tastes like a Barossa
shiraz! Tremendous value at $14. This was one of my
recent
Rick's Picks. Tasted w. L, Erin & Johnnie,
Ryan & Michelle for my surf and turf birthday dinner on the
patio-deck. |
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| May 18,
2006 - Grand finale to the flight of the
top rated Shiraz's (see below). Barton Vale Smith's Folly Barossa
Valley Shiraz 2001 - RP 95 RM 92 - $80 - Dark garnet
color. Slight earthiness and full firm tannins predominate the black
berry, black cherry, coffee flavors. Hazy Blur Baroota Shiraz
2004 - RM93 RP91 WS91- $38. Deep dark purple colour. Rich dense
full flavored vanilla bean accented by currant, plum and black
raspberry, and a hint of cola and mocha on the full flavored finish.
Tasted w/ L, Bill C., and Jeff M. at
Emeril's at Universal Studios
in Orlando (click for Rick's DineSite Review). |
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| May 17,
2006 - The March of top rated Shiraz' continues (see May 16)....
Haan Prestige Barossa Valley Shiraz 2003 - RM 93 RP 93-95-
$50 - Rich currant blackberry, plum and a hint of dark chocolate
taste - less rich, full or forward as the Elderton or Oracle from
last night but delicious none-the-less, Hans and Fransien Haan
were selected Australian
Producer of the year for 2005. Branson Coach House Rare Single
Vineyard Coach House Block Shiraz 2002
- RM 91 RP 92
WS92 - $75 - Similar to the Haan. Slight
earthiness detracts from the of flavors of plum, currant and spicy
blackberry and a hint of dark chocolate with a long smoky tannin
finish. Tasted w/ AJ
and L at
Charley's
Steakhouse in Orlando
(click for Rick's DineSite Review). |
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| May 16,
2006 - A heavyweight bout of top rated Aussie Shiraz's. Troll
Creek Shiraz, Barossa Valley 2002 - RP 96 RM 93 - $79 - Full
bodied and flavorful - smooth and elegant with a pronounced currant,
plum, a hint of raspberry and vanilla and a touch of oak. A product
of Rusdan Wines. Kilikanoon
Clare Valley Oracle Shiraz 2003 - RP 98 JH 96 RM 97 -$65 - Spectacular.
Dark inky colour with garnet rim. Full bouquet and flavors of currant,
sweet plum, raspberry vanilla and sweet oak -
smooth, silky, chewy but polished - the currant 'Dentyne' flavor lingers
with a long full subtle smoky cedar full tannin finish. Elderton
Command Barossa Shiraz 2002 - RP 95 RM 95 - $72 - Huge,
powerful, dense, richly complex, dark, full forward plum, black
raspberry, dark chocolate punched by firm intense tannins on a
smooth and long finish. This wine was more approachable than the
first time we tried it - but it still needs some time to meld and
reveal its complex fruit. Tasted w/ AJ, Bill C., Jeff M., Duncan S.,
Bill McD and Stefan at
Vito's Chop House in Orlando
(click for Rick's DineSite Review). |
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May 14, 2006 - Robert Craig
Napa Valley Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon 1996
- RM 90
Beautiful deep purple color, taking on an earthiness to complement a
smooth polished taste of strawberry, pear and berry with a nice balance.
Perfect complement to beef tenderloin Mother's day dinner with L, E &
Johnnie, G'ma Evelyn and Keith, Alec and Ryan. A blend of Cabernet
Sauvignon from Howell Mtn, Mt Veeder, and Napa Oakville. |
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May 13, 2006 - Isenhower
Columbia Valley Wild Alfalfa Syrah 2004 - RM 88 - $29 - Dark purple
color. Vibrant bright notes of floral, rich ripe berry, mineral, a hint
of white pepper, accented by that classic Red Mountain terrior essence
of cognac that lingers on a long finish. |
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May 11,
2006 - Chateau De La Gardine Châteauneuf-du-Pape 1998 - RM 88,
RP 90, WS 94 - $49 - A subtle earthiness detracts from the
blackberry and black cherry fruit, accented by a subtle leather and
cassis. |
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May 8, 2006 - Frank Family
Vineyards Napa Valley Zinfandel 2004 - $36 RM 90 - Dense and dark.
Soft and smooth blackberries, plums, and black cherries with the essence
of soft chocolate mocha spice. The palate is rich and concentrated with
mouth filling ripe fruit flavors interwoven with velvety tannins
followed by a long finish. |
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May 6, 2005 - Kilikanoon
Clare Valley Oracle Shiraz 2003 - $65 - RP 98 JH 96 RM 97 - Spectacular.
Dark inky colour with garnet rim. Full bouquet and flavors of currant,
sweet plum, af vanilla and sweet oak -
smooth, silky, chewy but polished - the currant 'Dentyne' flavor lingers
with a long full subtle smoky cedar full tannin finish.
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May 3, 2006 - La Tour Haut-Brion
Pessac Leognan Bordeaux 1999 - RM 90 - $49 - Big earthy mouthful of
black cherry, black raspberry, a hint of meat, mineral and plum fruit. |
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May 2, 2006 - Forman Napa Valley Chardonnay 2000
- RM 89 |
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April 29, 2006 - Liparita Sonoma County Merlot
1997 - RM 88 - We tasted this wine from the barrel with wine-maker
Gove Celia at our Napa Wine Experience 1998 - winemaker of the Neal cab
from two nights ago (below). Dark garnet coloured, earthiness bled off
the next day to reveal cherry, ripe black raspberry and cassis
with a hint of mocha blackberry and smoke on the finish. |
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April 28, 2006 - Ravenswood Sonoma County
Zinfandel 2003 - RM 88 - Deep purple, full flavored berry, raspberry
and berry with a black cherry finish. Tasted w/ Eric & Kathy at Mama
Carolla's Old Italian Restaurant in Broad Ripple, Indy. |
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April 26,
2006 - Neal Family Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 -
RM 93 $50 - Dark
ruby in color. That distinctive Howell Mountain terroir comes through
with aromas of cherry, black cassis, sweet oak, violet and cigar box
spice with mixture of full flavored currant, ripe Bing cherries,
raspberries and semi-sweet cocoa dominating the mid-palate giving this
wine with a nice backbone, plenty of structure, and long soft silky but
firm tannins. and a beautiful balance. The wine maker is Gove Celia who
we met at Liparita during our Napa Wine Experience back in 1998.
Purchased at Corkscrew and tasted w/ Scott E at Gallaghers in
Springfield, IL. |
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April 23, 2006 - Cellar
Tasting at Binny's Willowbrook - Fabulous tasting of 40 cellar
quality wines at Binny's newest store - formerly DiCarlo's.
Highlights of the tasting were Bordeaux classics Cheval Blanc
2002, Haut Brion 2001, Chateau Mouton Rothschild 2002, Chateau
Cos d' Estournel 2000, and the 100 point Chateau Leoville Las
Cases 2000. Australian highlights were the Elderton Barossa
Command 2001, Mr Riggs Shiraz 2004, Amon Ra Shiraz 2004,
D'Arenberg Dead Arm 2002, 2003, and Clarendon Hills Kangarilla
Grenache 2002. California coronation included Caymus Special
Select 2003, Ridge Monte Bello and Dominus 2002, and Joseph
Phelps Insignia and Silver Oak 2001's. The best of the tasting
was the Penfolds Grange 2000. The surprise over achiever of
the tasting was the Northstar Washington State Merlot 2003.
Notable Pinot Noirs were the Ponzi Reserve, Goldeneye and
Domaine Serene Evenstad 2003's, and the Belle Glos Clark & Telephone
2004. Notable whites were Ramey Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay,
Newton Unfiltered Chardonnay and Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du
Pape Blanc 2003's, Dagueneau Bisson Renard Puilly Fume 2004, and Dom
Perignon 1998. More detailed tasting notes, pictures and best of
the rest are coming on
Binnys Cellar Tasting feature page. |
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April 23, 2006
- Napa Cellars Zinfandel 2003 - RM 91 - $22 - Flavorful black
raspberry, currant, and black cherry with long full flavored finish.
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April 22, 2006 - Tapestry McLaren Vale Shiraz
2004 - RM 91 WS 90 - $18 - Dark colour. Bursting with black
raspberry, blueberry and a hint of pepper. |
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April 16, 2006 - Hartford Family Wines
Russian River Valley Zinfandel
2003 - RM 92 RP 93 - Deep purple
colour. Full bodied, smooth polished, rich fragrant
nose and flavours of black
raspberries, cherries, spice, pepper, and earth. Great Easter ham dinner
selection - bold enough to withstand the ham and sweet potatoes but
elegant and soft enough to compliment and not overpower the holiday
feast. |
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April 15, 2006 - Parcel
41 Napa Valley Merlot 2003 - RM 88 - Not a fair fight
matching this subtle soft merlot up against the big full bodied
fruit forward Thorn-Clarke and the Can Blau below.
Setting this one aside by itself allowed the blueberry, plum and
raspberry fruit to peak to emerge although merely a shadow of the
bigger profiles of the others.
Can Blau
Montsant Spain 2004 - RM 89 RP 90 - Dark full
bodied - big forward fruit of dark berry and raspberry, mineral and
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| what Steve at Binny's Naperville refers to as 'crushed limestone'
- parker calls is 'slate/rock', blend of Carignan, Syrah, and
Grenache. Another good
value wine at
$15. Tasted with L, Ryan & Michelle, Erin & Johnnie and friend Jason
M in season christening of the deck bar-b-que. |
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April 14, 2006 -
Thorn-Clarke Barossa Shotfire Ridge Shiraz 2004 - RM 91 WS 91 RP 92
- Dark, rich ripe big full bodied fruit
forward black berry, black
cherry and black raspberry, with licorice and dark chocolate on the big
long raisin finish. This is a great
value wine at $14-18. |
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| April 9,
2006 - Caymus Estate Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 1991 - RM 92 WS 93
- Slight earthiness permeates the opening black cherry which
gives way to a mouthful of sweet black cherry, plum and an even
bigger creamy toasty oak on a long smooth seductive finish. Robert
Craig Napa Valley Chardonnay 2000 - RM 88 $27 - Rich full
bodied, creamy, buttery and full predominant oak.- Hess Collection Mount Veeder
Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 1993 - TBD - Cellar Selection tasted and
purchased at the winery back in the mid-nineties. Wines selected for
gala family surf and turf dinner celebrating ATM's 16th. |
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April 8, 2006 - Steel Creek Monterey
County Pinot Noir 2004 - RM 86 - $13 - Smokey slightly earthy black
cherry and berry. Decent value wine.
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Westry, Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon 2004 -
RM 87 - Ruby color and aromas
of herbs, spices, and raspberries and an earthy tone to complete the
package. Medium-bodied, a fine balance between its refined red
fruits, acidity and tannins. |
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March 31, 2006 - Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages
Napa Valley 1994 - WS 91 Spectator Selection RM 88 - Earthiness
overpowers the fruit of plum, cherry and berry with a oaky finish.
Blend of 76% Cab, 14% Cab Franc, 5% Merlot, 4% Malbec, and 1% Petit
Verdot. Behrens & Hitchcock Napa Valley Staglin Vineyard
Cabernet Sauvignon 1994 - RM 87 Dark ripe black raspberry, cherry,
leather, bark, essence of a fortified wine with raisiny alcohol
taste. Last bottle from cellar of this inaugural release of
this producer and label, discovered and purchased upon release at the
Tre Vigne Cantina in St Helena w/ AJ, L, et al. |
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Chateau Haut Bages Averous Pauillac Bordeaux
1989 - RM 89 WS 90 Classic left bank Bordeaux earthiness, huge
floral essense with dark berry, cherry, mushroom and tar. Tasted with Bill C and Ryan at home.
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March 30, 2006
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Spring Valley Vineyard Washington State Walla Walla
Uriah
Red 2003 - RM 91 -
$42 - Smooth polished and nicely balanced, easy but elegant drinking wine
- featuring aromas and tastes of raisiny currant, sweet plum, a hint of red cherry and milky
chocolate with a smooth silky firm tannin finish. Blend of
77% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot.
Named for and pictured on the label, Uriah Corkrum, grandfather of
producer Shari Corkrum Derby, who began farming the area in the 1880's and
acquired the Spring Valley land in 1910. Tasted w/ Bill C at home. |
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March 29, 2006 - Groth
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1993 - RM 88 Dark inky colour,
amazing resilience in this dozen year old - slight earthiness gives way
to a full ripe black cherry and blackberry fruit giving way to a black
licorice essence on a big finish. 84% Cabernet from Oakcross Vineyard,
Oakville; 16% Merlot from Hillview Vineyard, south of Yountville. We
visited Groth Winery during our Napa Wine Experience trip in 1998. |
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March 27, 2006 - Hess
Collection Mt. Veeder Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1990 - RM 86
WS 90 Cellar
Selection - Fruit has given way to a earthy
leathery tar and licorice competing with the dark berry and black cherry
fruit. |
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March 25, 2006 - LaFond
Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2004 - RM 87 - $20 - Big mouthfeel
of mineral and essence of floral violets predominate over the dark
cherry and spice notes with a pronounced finish. |
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March 24 - Parusso Mariondino
Barolo 1998 - RM 89 WS 93 - $39-59 -
My review is less glowing as I
found this wine underwhelming - a modest more subdued version of what JS
at WS reviews -> "The Wine Spectator
Wow. Gorgeous nose, offering ripe plum, cinnamon and flowers.
Full-bodied, with big, polished tannins and a long, long finish. Like
cashmere in a glass. Best after 2005. 850 cases made. Score: 93.
—James Suckling, November 30, 2002."
Tasted w. Erin & Johnnie, Ryan & Michelle, and
Mark DB at spring break loner's dinner. |
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March 23, 2006 - Rutherglen Estate Red 2004 -
RM 85 IWS 87 - Too much off fruit flavor overpowering the modest fruit
to warrant a recommendation although decent considering the equally
modest $12 price. This 'pro' is more kind. "Deep ruby. Roasted coffee
and dark berries on the nose, with hints of tar and smoke. Juicy and
round in the mouth, showing fresh dark berry and mocha flavors. Round,
supple and gently tannic on the finish." Reviewed
By: International Wine Cellar 87 pts.
- 85% Syrah, 15% petit syrah. |
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March 21, 2006 - Craneford
Allyson Parsons Barossa Valley Shiraz 2003 - RM 88 - $ 16 - Dark
berry, black cherry and leather predominate with hints of spice and dark
chocolate. Artist series label featuring painting by Australia artist
Allyson Parsons - part of proceeds go to cancer research at Royal
Adelaide Hospital. |
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March 18, 2006 - Plumpjack Estate Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon 1996 - RM 91 - Rich flavorful forward berry,
cherry, plum and black raspberry fruit with a leathery earthiness on the
slightly oaky finish. |
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March 17, 2006 - River Road Siebert Ranch Sonoma
Coast Pinot Noir 2003 - RM
86 - Dark black fruits give way to tar and essence of vanilla on the
finish. |
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March 15, 2006 - Cain Cuvee Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 2003 - RM 89 - Somewhat subdued dark berry fruit, spice
and black pepper with a hint of earthiness - a multi-vintage blend -
83% 2003
17% 2002 - 46% Merlot, 41% Cabernet
Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, from vineyard in Rutherford, Oakville,
Yountville, Spring Mountain, and Diamond Mountain. Tasted w/ Jim K at
Tower Club in Tysons. |
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March 14, 2006 - Panther Creek, Willamette
Valley Winemakers Cuvee, Oregon 2003 - RM 91
$64
- crushed
cranberries, cedar, sweet mocha on the long finish, - supple,
polished, complex- reflecting only blend of Willamette & Umpqua
valleys. Tasted at
Flemmings in
Tysons Corner and w/ Carla M at Vidalia in WDC. |
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Mar 10, 2006 - Kathryn Hall Napa Valley
Sacrashe Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 1998 - RM 86 ($50) A bit hard,
earthy tobacco and cedar, a hint of eucalyptus or mint overpowers the
crushed berries and a bit of tar. Visited the winery during our
Napa Wine Experience 2003. |
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Mar 8, 2006
- Baldacci Family Vineyards, Napa Valley Stags Leap District
Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 -
RM 88 $40 - The aromas and flavors of ripe black cherry, blackberry
are accented by cedar mint and leather. Inaugural vintage of this
wine, a blend of 91% Cab Sauvignon, 9% Cab Franc. |
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Mar 3,
2006 -
Elderton
Friends Barossa Shiraz 2003 - RM 88, RP 91 - $24; Full bodied but a
bit subdued berry fruit, hints of chocolate, plum and vanilla. Soft and
smooth but lacking the big forward fruit of so many of its peers. Parker
calls this a Best Buy. I'm a bit less ebullient. |
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Feb 28, 2006 -
Titus Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 - WS 91
RP 91 RM 92 $39 - Dark colour, big full aromas of sweet currant and vanilla.
Big full bodied forward fruit with mouthful of sweet black currant, red
raspberry, black cherry, chocolate, a hint of vanilla, cedar and mint on
the long lingering mild tannin sweet oaky finish.
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Feb 25, 2006 - Pride Mountain Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
1994 - RM 90 - Deep dark purple, blackberry, currant, earthy
cedar, leather and oak. Mr. Riggs Adelaide Shiraz Viognier 2004 -
RM 87 - Dark purple color, full forward fruit of black cherry
and currant, subtle tones of vanilla, overpowered by an intense lead pencil mineral that lingers on the
long finish. Consensus preference of L and the kids.
Tasted w/ L., Ryan & Michelle, Erin & Johnnie. |
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| Feb 23,
2006 - Melka Matisse Proprietary Red Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Blend 2000 - RM 90 - Firm, full bodied, smooth, polished, dark,
black berry and raspberry fruits with a touch of currant, anise and
toasty oak and firm tannins. Blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon,
15% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc, from Phillip Melka, Frenchman,
recent 'winemaker of the year',
advisor to a dozen of Napa's greatest producers. Carmenet Moon
Mountain Sonoma County Estate Reserve 1995 - RM 88 WS/RP 90-
Dark, medium bodied, berry currant, cedar and herb with moderate
tannins. From Magnum. Blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19%
cabernet franc, and 2% petit verdot.
Tasted w/ KD, SE, and Jon M, Gordon
F, and Matt S. at
Rain Restaurant
in Geneva.
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| Feb 21,
2006 - Rosemount Balmoral McLaren Vale Syrah 1995 -
WS 92/RM 89 $35 Dark
full flavor, berry, blueberry, plum fruit, with spice and anise.
Showing age and a slight bit of astringency on opening but opened
and softened with a long full magnificent finish.
Beaulieu Vineyards Napa Valley Tapestry Reserve 2002 -
RM 92 WE 90 - Dark
medium bodied, smooth easy drinking, Bordeaux blend showing loads of
plum, cherry and currant fruit as well as vanilla spice notes from
oak aging. Tasted at Indigo Restaurant in SPG.
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Feb 18-19,
2006 - Cosentino CE2V Napa Valley Meritage 1999 - RM 92 - $75 - Full
bodied, firm, fruit filled - black cherry, black raspberry, charcoal,
smoke, and a hint of soft vanilla with smooth soft tannins and a long
silky finish.
Second vintage
of this wine from the Pope Valley region of Napa -
70% Cabernet
Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 13% Cabernet Franc, 510 cases produced.
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Feb 17, 2006
- Château de
Beaucastel
Châteauneuf du Pape 1995
- RM 92 WS 92- Tasted from
magnum. Medium bodied, dark colour, complex but well balanced and
harmoniously polished - dark berry fruit, plum, and herb with focused
firm tannin undertones. Cellar selection tasted at Mon Ami Gabi
in Oak Brook, thanks to their corkage policy; Birthday celebration
dinner for L with Johnny & Erin, Ryan & Michelle, Alec & Marlene. |
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Feb 14, 2006 - Mr Riggs McLaren Vale Shiraz 2004
- RM 94 RP 95 RP review - Drink 2005-2012. The blockbuster 2004 Shiraz
was aged 18 months in French oak (40% new). It is a wine of great
intensity, with an opaque purple color as well as a gorgeous nose of
camphor, graphite, blackberries, tar, and charcoal. Rich, super-pure
fruit cascades over the palate of this opaque purple-colored,
full-bodied, voluptuously-textured Shiraz. Consume it over the next 6-7
years. RM - Deep dark purple - big nose; huge full bodied mouthful of
layers of currant and blackberry with a moderating red raspberry/vanilla
on the long long full finish.
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| Feb 9,
2006 - Haan Shiraz Prestige Barossa
2002 - $59 - RP 95 RM 93 - Rich currant blackberry and
plum taste - less rich, full or forward as the Elderton or Tatiarra
but delicious none-the-less.
Elan Vineyards Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon 1996. RM 91 $36 From
the Atlas Peak viticulture district up in the south east corner
above Napa Valley. From Richard and Linda Elliott-Smith -
participants in our
1998 Napa Wine Experience.
Supple, with a range of peppery, earthy,
mineral and tar flavors leading to a core of ripe plum, black cherry
and herb. There's a remarkable and intriguing story about their
stylish
label as recalled by
some of our group.
Elan was also one of the
"The Undiscovered Dozen"
featured in Wine Spectator along with our
friends at Del Dotto. Tasted w/ Dick & Mary and L at Walkers Char
House. |
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Feb 8, 2006 - Beaulieu
Vineyards Tapestry Reserve
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Meritage
1996 - WS 92 RM 88 - Dark black fruit is overpowered by cassis and
hint of leather and anise. |
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Feb 4, 2006 -
Provenance Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 - RM 87 $32. Complex
currant and dark berry fruit are undermined by astringent black cherry
on the front before settling on a broad long finish. Provenance
Carneros Merlot 2002 - RM 88 - $23 - Not as smooth, polished or complex as
I recall from earlier vintage when I first tasted this at the winery -
but tasty and easy drinking none-the-less. Winemaker notes refer to a
"pleasing rich ruby red color. Spiced apple, exotic plum, green tea and
suede leather round out the nose". |
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Feb 3, 2006 - Rosemount
Balmoral McLaren Vale Syrah 1995 - WS 92 RM 89 - $35 - Dark intense
ultra-ripe raisiny, smoky loganberry, predominates over plum and a hint
of blueberry.
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Jan 28, 2006 - Bleasdale
Langhorne Creek Reserve Shiraz 2000 - RM 92 -
$29 - Rich full bodied and
full flavored red cherry red raspberry, currant and berry fruit with a
long full finish of earthy currant, cassis and a hint of spice and cedar.
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Jan 27, 2006 - Domaine Serene Oregon Willamette
Valley Yamhill Cuvee Pinot Noir 2003 - RM 89 -
$18 - Light bodied but full flavored cherry, red
raspberry, lavender and hints of spices. |
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Jan 26, 2006 - Toluca Lane Oregon Pinot Noir 2003
- RM 91 Full black berry and black currant with a delicate but
rich full aromatic floral essence.
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Jan 25, 2006 - Del Dotto
Giovanni's Tuscan Reserve Napa Valley 1999 - RM 93 Rich full bodied
full berry and cherry fruit with jammy plum. Tasted from magnum with T S
team and Scott E at Capital Grille in Tysons. |
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Jan 24, 2006 - Del Dotto Giovanni's Tuscan
Reserve Napa Valley 1997 - RM 87 - Closed, tight and a bit of
a barnyard funkiness that wore off after an hour and half - needs time
to settle, soften and open to reveal more of its dark berry fruit and
firm tannin and oaky finish. |
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Jan 22, 2006 - Beaulieu
Vineyards Napa Valley Tapestry Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (blend) 1998
- RM 92 - $33 - Complex, full bodied with currant, cherry, a hint of plum, and
sweet oak on a smooth tannin finish.
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| Jan 21,
2006 - Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages 2001 -
RM 94 - Complex, polished, elegant, smooth,
full bodied, currant flavor with subtle vanilla, plum and essence of
mocha on the finish. d'Arenberg Dead Arm Barossa Shiraz 2002 -
RM 93 - Full
bodied, dark, forward but elegant and complex with mouthfull of
classic Dead Arm blueberry fruit, plum, berry and subtle
pepper, spice and hint of mocha on the finish. David Frost Paarl
Arnold Palmer Vintage Cabernet Sauvignon 1999 - RM 90 -
ST Review - Big, Ripe, Rich and Chocolaty. This mostly Cabernet Sauvignon based
wine shows complex layers of black cherry, spice, and currant on the
nose. Finishing long with polished tannins and excellent length.
Freemark Abbey Napa Valley
Rutherford Sycamore
Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 1989 and 1997; 1989 - Sycamore |
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Rutherford cabernet franc. From Rick's
cellar - RM 88 - Full firm - dark berry and black cherry fruit, earthy and
slight wood flavor. 1997 - RM 91 - Full bodied
and firm but nicely balanced, still slightly closed, full dark berry
fruit, hint of currant and cherry with smooth tannins.
Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Botrytis Sauvignon Blanc 1998 - RM 88
- Thick, unctuous, floral, hint of citrus and touch of smoke. Tasted
w/ and compliments of (unless noted) Bill & Beth C, w/ Drew,
Matt and L
with fabulous beef tenderloin dinner. |
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Jan 19, 2006 - Chateau Garreau Grand
vin de Bordeaux 1998 - RM 89
- Nicely balanced and smooth with a medium body -
berry, plum accents with a trace of cassis and earthy wood. |
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Jan 18, 2006 - Nugan
Family Southeast Australia Shiraz 2003 - RM 88 ST 87 - Plum and dark
berry fruit, with a cocoa-tinged finish. Tasted with Leo W @ Clydes in
Reston Town Center. Great value shiraz. |
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Jan 15, 2006 - Mini vertical of
1981's - From Bordeaux, Medoc, St Julien, Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou
and
Chateau Leoville Las Cases, and from Pauillac, Chateau Duhart Milon
Rothschild; from California, Katherine Kennedy Santa Cruz
Mountain Saratoga Cabernet Sauvignon - Erin's
birth-year wines for her 25th celebration dinner. Tasted
w/ L, Erin & Johnnie, his parents Kevin and Barb, Ryan
&
Michelle, and ATM. It's
been a while but we lived not far from this
winery in Saratoga, CA. Amazing longevity displayed in
all these
25 year olds - especially considering '81 was a less than
stellar vintage. The St Juliens showed some opaqueness
and a slight tinge of rust colour reflecting their age;
all showed a healthy nose with medium body yet moderate tannin
backbones; modest black cherry and dark berry fruit predominate with a hint of earth and leather.
The Ducru (RM 89) was delicate and showed finesse while
the Las Cases was a a bit harsh and took two days to
open and reveal its finesse and balance of fruit. (RM 88). The
Rothschild (RM 90) exhibited healthier colour, and
predominant floral lavender with dark cherry and berry
fruits - delicate and sophisticated in the character of
its cousin Lafite. The Kennedy (RM 87) showed the
darkest fullest colour of ink and exhibited firm full
bodied black fruit, cassis and bark. To finish, desert
was complemented with Beringer Late Harvest
Johannisburg Riesling Special Select 1993.
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Jan 13, 2006 - Kaesler Barossa
Valley Stonehorse Shiraz 2003 - RM 92 RP 92-94 - $25 -
Dark, rich, full bodied, blackberry, black raspberry, a
hint of mineral, and a vanilla mocha on the soft tannin
finish. |
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Owen Roe
Ex Umbris Columbia Valley Shiraz 2004 - RM 91 $25 -
Deep purple, full bodied, dense, rich mineral, plum and
blackberry with a tight tannin finish. Tasted w/ L &
Mark B. on his Wine 101 indoctrination. |
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Jan 11, 2006 -
Domaine des Aphillanthes Cotes du Rhone Villages, Cuvee des Galets 2001
- RM 90, RP 91 - $15 - RM - Medium bodied with predominate black
pepper over black berry turning to mineral on the finish. RP - "Boasts a
dense inky/purple color in addition to sumptuous aromas of freshly
ground pepper, blackberry
liqueur, and lavender. Ripe, full-bodied, sweet, rich flavors caress the
palate with no hard edges." 91 pts.
Robert Parker (#283234). |
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Jan 7, 2005 - d' Arenberg 'The Dead Arm' McLaren Vale
Shiraz 2003 - RP 95 RM 92 - RP Review - ‘One of this estate’s flagship
wines, the 2003 The Dead Arm Shiraz appears to be better than the 2002.
A deeper, richer, fuller-bodied offering that spent time in equal parts
French and American oak, it possesses an opaque purple colour, great
intensity, and a fabulously sweet nose of blackberries, cassis, asphalt,
earth, and oak. Powerful, super-concentrated, and obviously fashioned
from low yields and old vines, this is classic McLaren Vale old vine
Shiraz that should age nicely for 15+ years.’ RP Rating 95. Reminiscent
of the 94/95 Dead Arms reflecting a distinctive blueberry taste along
with that sweet oak, blackberry and slight earthy smoke, but smooth and
polished - more approachable than some of the overpowering over-ripe
fruit bombs coming out of Australia recently. |
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Jan 6, 2006 -
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Jan 5, 2006 - Marquis
Phillips Barossa Valley Shiraz '9' 2001 - WS92 RM93 $39 - A bit less
polished than the 2000, but that distinctive 'burnt sugar creme brulee'
taste abounds. Full, forward rich and dense ripe fruit. HS of WS calls
it 'exotic spice' taste, "very ripe and dense, with rich
blackberry jam flavors, which echo on the long silky smoky finish" |
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Jan 4, 2006 -
Hewitson Mad Hatter McLaren Vale
Shiraz 2002 - RM 91 - Dark inky purple colour. Deep rich ripe black
berry, plum and black currant flavors with flinty mineral on the crisp
finish. |
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Dec 30, 2005 - Crocker & Starr Napa
Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2003 - RM 86 - Pear flavors predominate over the
citrus backbone. Tasted at Shaw's Crab House in Chicago. |
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Dec 29, 2005 - Marquis
Phillips Barossa Valley Shiraz '9' 2001 - WS92 RM93 $39 - A bit less
polished than the 2000, but that distinctive 'burnt sugar creme brulee'
taste abounds. Full, forward rich and dense ripe fruit. HS of WS calls it
'exotic spice' taste, "very ripe and dense, with rich
blackberry jam flavors, which echo on the long silky smoky finish". |
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Dec 28, 2005 - Spring
Valley Vineyard Frederick Red Wine Walla Walla 2002 - RM 91 - $42 -
Named for the father of winemaker Shari Corkrum Derby, blend of cabernet
70%, merlot, 20%, cabernet franc 9% and petit verdot 1%; sweet dense
currant, rich ripe plum and berry, sweet oak and vanilla with a essence of
cedar and cognac on the full flavored and full bodied finish. Much like
the Uriah below from the same producer. |
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Dec 27, 2005 - Hewitson Mad Hatter McLaren Vale
Shiraz 2002 - RM 91 - Dark inky purple colour. Deep rich ripe black
berry, plum and black currant flavors with flinty mineral on the crisp
finish. |
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Dec 25, 2005 - Silver Oak
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1991 - RP 92 RM 91 - Still a bit
tightly wound, fragrances and flavors of floral and sweet oak, nuances
of tea, vanilla and black cherry fruit on a firm tannin finish. |
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Dec 24, 2005 - Van Asperen
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1994 - RM 87 Dark berry fruit, cassis
and tar remain in what was a tremendous value wine at the time. This is
the last bottle from the cellar.
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| Dec
23, 2005 - Connor Park Winery
Bendigo, Australia
The Honour
Shiraz
2002 -
RM 93 RP 95 - Robert Parker
review - The Honour, a dense off-the-chart, potent Shiraz that spent
18 months in French oak. Readers looking for restrained Euro-styled
wines should steer clear of this behemoth. It offers blackberry and
cassis fruit intermixed with lead pencil shavings, smoke and high
quality toasty oak. Full-bodied, massively rich, dense and well
balanced for a wine of this weight and power. It should be at its
finest in 2-3 years and last for 10-15. |
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Dec 22 - Guigal Cote
du Rhone Chateau du Ampuis
1993 - RM 84 - Woody, leather, tar tend to overshadow the black berry
and black cherry fruits.
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Dec 18, 2005 - Rodney Strong Russian River Valley
Pinot Noir 1996 - RM 84 - Light, earthy leather, cherry,
tobacco and a hint of cedar. From double magnum. Chateau Potensac
Bordeaux Medoc 1989 - RM 88 - Fragrant floral, earthy leather, dark
berry and plum. From magnum. Estancia Pinnacle Monterey County
Chardonnay 1997 - RM 89 - From double magnum. Served at our M.I.T.
holiday dinner |
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Dec 14, 2005 - Gundlach Bundschu Sonoma County
Rheinfarm Vineyard Mountain Cuvée Meritage 2002 - RM 89 - Aromas and
tastes of cherry, plum, hints of vanilla, oak, and tobacco with a
subtle mocha on the finish. Tasted at Weber Grill w/ Carolyn C., Marty L,
Gary L, Michael R, Jean K of LTi and SZM in from SDO. |
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Dec 13, 2005 - Napa Cellars
Napa Valley Zinfandel 2003 - RM 91 - $24 - Aromas and tastes of red
raspberry, sweet currant and plum with a hint a white pepper on the smooth
polished finish. Tasted and purchased at Wine Styles in Seven Bridges.
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Dec 11, 2005 - Chateau
Faugeres Bordeaux St Emilion 1998 - RM 87 RP 90 WS 91 - $28 - Aroma
and taste of berry, cherry and mocha with a long smooth tannin finish.
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Dec 10, 2005 - Baron Phillip
Rothschild Chateau Clerc Milon Bordeaux Pauillac 1986 - RM 89 WS 90 RP 90 -
Classic Bordeaux floral scents and tastes accented by earthy leathery currant, berry, plum, a hint of cassis and smoky anise and
cherry on a long moderately tannin finish. Tasted with L and Marlene at
Bistro Margot in Naperville for M's bday. Second wine of Mouton
Rothschild. |
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Dec 9, 2005 -
Spring Valley Vineyard
Washington State Walla Walla Uriah
Red 2003 - RM 91 -
$42 - Smooth polished and nicely balanced, easy but elegant drinking wine
- featuring aromas and tastes of raisiny currant, plum, a hint of red cherry and milky
chocolate with a smooth silky firm tannin finish. Blend of
77% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot.
Named for and pictured on the label, Uriah Corkrum, grandfather of
producer Shari Corkrum Derby, who began farming the area in the 1880's and
acquired the Spring Valley land in 1910. |
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Dec 8, 2005 - Dominus Napa
Valley Red Wine vertical tasting with producer Edouard Moueix - Dominus
vintages 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, and 2002.
See tasting notes.
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