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Rick's Wine Journal
2006 2nd Half |
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Date |
Wine - Notes and Comments
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See
Key- See
Rating Wines) |
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December 25,
2006 -
Ch�teau de
Beaucastel
Ch�teauneuf du Pape 1981 - RM
88 WS 96 - The
parade of 81's continues as we count down to the big day. This CDP was
medium bodied and austere in colour with a slight rust on the edges
revealing its age. Earthy leather overtook the black cherry and berry
fruit. WS Oct 15,
1991 Review. "A giant of a wine. Decant a few hours before serving
if you want to drink it now. Deep in color, with super-ripe game,
chocolate and tobacco aromas. Full-bodied, with a thick, massive fruit
structure and tons of tannins. Has a gigantic finish."
OliverHill Shiraz 2004 - RM 92 RP 93 - Deep dark purple -
rich, thick chewy tannins and full bodied fruit of black berry
loganberry and ripe plum. Medley of contrasting styles and tastes
rounded out with the remaining Lucia Pinot Noir from yesterday -
great selection for our gala festive holiday dinner with L, E&J, R&M,
and Alec. |
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December 24, 2006 - Lucia Santa Lucia Highlands
Pinot Noir 2004 - RM 92 - Winemaker's notes: "The density of this
wine is immediately evident on the nose. It is a spicy, fruit-driven
Pinot Noir. Dark fruits including black cherry, blueberry combine with
delicate tannins to create a very food-friendly Pinot Noir is a cuvee of
various lots in the cellar. Generally a blend of equal parts from Garys�
Vineyard and Pisoni Vineyards." |
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December 21, 2006
- Chappellet Napa Valley Chenin Blanc 2003 - RM 89 - Light, bright
easy drinking - zesty and spicy with flavors of tropical fruits and
citrus, crisp acidity - rich but subtle flavors of orange, pineapple and
a hint of anise and eucalyptus on the soft finish. Tasted w/ L at Parker
Grill in Downers Grove. |
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December 17, 2006
- Chateau Leoville Las Cases St Julien Bordeaux 1981 - RM 88 -
Floral bouquet, earthy leather, cigar box, dark berry, a hint of black
cherry with a smooth long tannic finish. Erin's birth year wine to
commemorate her Master's graduation today. |
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| December 16, 2006 - Sineann
Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir 2005 - RM 89 - Big full
bodied firm dark and smoky with layers of black berry with a long
full finish. Mollydooker "Two
Left Feet" McLaren Vale Shiraz Blend 2005 - see
review below. Tasted at home with
L, Pat R. and friend Richard after Denver and the Mile High
Orchestra concert at EFCN. |
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December 10, 2006 -
Hess Collection Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1990; Kenwood, Jack
London Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1990; Silverado Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon 1990; Guigal Croze Hermitage 2003; Hahn
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Central Coast Meritage 2003; Groom
Barossa Shiraz 2002; Ch�teau Puy Servain "Terrement"
Haut Montravel Dordogne 2003 -
Wine flight of 1990 reds commemorating birth-year of ATM and friends
for gala beef tenderloin holiday family dinner - with both sets of
twins, CC, David R., Brian B., Brian L. and families. |
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December 9, 2006 -
Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Pauillac, Bordeaux 1981
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RM 91 - Medium bodied, classic Bordeaux aroma and tastes of floral,
earthy leather, cigar box, black cherry, black berry, anise, and silky
smooth tannins. From the
1981 horizontal collection commemorating Erin's birth-year -
broken out for the upcoming big event, and celebrating Marlene's
birthday and 25 years of friendship, w. L at Phil Stefani's new Riva
restaurant in Naperville. |
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December 8, 2006 - Ch�teau Puy Servain
"Terrement"
Haut Montravel Dordogne 2003 - RM
89 - Butter colored. Thick unctuous syrup - full bodied, full flavored
smoky throughout from sweet pear to red delicious apple and brown sugar
on the finish. |
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November 26, 2006 - Mollydooker "Two
Left Feet" McLaren Vale Shiraz Blend 2005 - RM 93 - RP 94 -
65% Shiraz, 19% Merlot, and 16% Cabernet Sauvignon from McLaren Vale,
Padthaway, and Langhorne Creek, created by Sarah Marquis. Remember
Sarah's Blend from the old label? This is another incredible value in
this new release from Sparky and Sara Marquis. Again, Parker says it
best..."It boasts an inky/purple color, superb intensity, a big, sweet,
full-bodied nose of creme de cassis, graphite, white chocolate, black
olives, blackberry liqueur, and spice, and a spectacular, voluptuous,
even unctuous texture. This is a big, powerful, classic southern
Australian red made with no compromises." |
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November 24, 2006 - Mollydooker "The
Boxer" McLaren Vale Shiraz 2005 - RM 94 - RP 95 - Incredible value
in this new release from Sparky and Sara Marquis. Deep purple - full
rich plum, currant, and mocha. RP says it best in his review - "The
2005 The Boxer Shiraz (primarily from McLaren Vale, followed by
Langhorne Creek and Padthaway) exhibits a black/blue/purple color, an
incredible density of fruit along with that tell-tale purity,
blackberries, white flowers, melted chocolate, sweet licorice, and
subtle wood. Full-bodied, beautifully textured and layered with an
awesome finish, it should drink well for 4-6+ years. Two more expensive
Mollydooker cuvees will be reviewed in my full Australian report in the
October issue. Sarah and Sparky Marquis, who live by the motto, �We make
wines that make people go wow - through attention to detail and
commitment to excellence,� have hit pay dirt with these brilliantly
packaged, screw cap-finished wines with labels that resemble Broadway
vaudeville acts from the mid-thirties. Even more innovative, their back
labels have a small postage stamp with all the relevant information so
restaurant consumers can remember the wine by pulling off the stamp and
taking it home. " Tasted w/ L. at Mark DeB's for post Thanksgiving
luncheon. |
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November 23, 2006
- Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir
2003 - RM 91 WS 92 - Full bodied full flavored - dark berries,
charcoal, turning to a spicy vanilla on a full finish. Great
accompaniment to our Thanksgiving feast dinner. Tasted w/ L at home. |
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November 21, 2006
- Hanna Sonoma Valley Bismark Ranch Merlot 1999 - RM 88 - Smokey
tar, licorice, black berry, earthy slightly tart cherry on the finish.
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November 20, 2006 - Parducci Pinot Noir 2005
- RM 86 - Smokey black cherry, cedar, earthy spice. Tasted at Chesapeake
Seafood w/ L in Springfield. |
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November 19, 2006
- Davey Family Vineyard "The Gate" McClaren Vale Shiraz 2002 - RM 89
RP 90 WS 90 - Dark purple colour. Full bodied, firm, tight, mineral, dark berry,
black cherry and a hint of plum on the long slightly metallic finish.
d' Arenberg 'Dead Arm' McLaren Vale Shiraz 1999 - RM 87 RP 96 - Slightly
earthy, tart cherry, hint of cedar and slight mineral with dark berry on
the somewhat flabby finish. Not a fair review as this wine needed time
to open and settle to reveal its true identity worthy of Parkers's 96
rating. John Duval
'Entity' Barossa Valley Shiraz 2004 - (See below). Tasted w/
Dr. Dan
at his cellar. |
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November 17, 2006
- John Duval 'Entity' Barossa Valley Shiraz 2004 - RP 95 RM 93 WS 92 -
$34 - Delicious. Medium bodied, easy drinking sweet creme brulee' with
that burnt sugar and vanilla taste intermixed with plum, red raspberry
laced with camphor on the long smooth finish. Tastes like the Marquis
Phillips '9' that I touted so highly back in the 2001-2002 vintages.
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November 16, 2006 - Colonial Estate 'l'Explorature'
Barosa Valley Shiraz
2004 - ST 90 - RM 87 -
$18 - Deep purple colour; cedar and mineral flavours overtake
the black cherry, blackberry laced with a tobacco and tar undercurrent.
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November 14, 2006
- Mount Veeder Meritage Napa Valley Red Wine 1989 - RM 87 WS
88 - Amazing life left in this 17 year old from the cellar. Earthy tart
black cherry, a hint of anise and firm tannins on a long flavorful
finish. |
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November 12, 2006 - Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou St. Julien Bordeaux
1981 - RM89 - Classic left bank Bordeaux bouquet of floral and
perfume with that elegant and well integrated classic earthy
leather that gives way to berry, black cherry, a hint of anise and a lengthy finish.
Breaking out the 1981 Bordeaux's as we count down Erin's birth-year wines
to her and Johnnie's gala event. Tasted with them and L with gala Sunday roast
dinner. Other reviews - RP 88/100
(Ed 1998) "One of the Medoc's more successful wines, the 1981 has
reached full maturity. It exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, and a
moderately attractive nose of minerals and jammy cranberry fruit
intermixed with black currants. In the mouth, this wine has lost its
baby fat, revealing medium body, and an elegant, measured personality.
Pure, with well-integrated tannin, this is a stylish, graceful
Ducru-Beaucaillou. Wine Spectator: 89/100 (10-1994) A wonderful balance
of rich fruit and silky tannins, with plum, vanilla and light tar
character. Full-bodied and tannic yet so well integrated; excellent
harmony. Drinkable now but better after 1998. - Frank Dubourdieu :
90/100 (Ed 09-2000). |
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November 11, 2006 - Saracco Moscato d'Asti 2005
- RM 87 - Sweet full bodied sparkler has essence of thick pear. |
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November 9, 2006 -
Soper
Legacy Sonoma County Special Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 -
RM 89 - Intense dark firm with tightly
wound flavors of dark berry, a hint of tobacco and sage with firm
tannins on the long finish. Tasted at Idylwood Grill in Falls Church w/
JK and L McV. |
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November 6, 2006 -
Cloud View Napa Valley Pritchard Hill Red Wine 2002 - RM 93 - $55 -
Full bodied, firm, nose and mouth-full of white pepper, licorice,
dark chocolate, sweet red currant, and black raspberry with firm long
tannins on the finish. 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Merlot. Tasted at
home w/ L & Ryan for his tenderloin birthday dinner. |
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November 5, 2006 - Guigal
Crozes Hermitage C�tes-du-Rh�ne Red 2003 - RM 86 - RP 88-90 - This has too
much mineral, and a bit tart cherry, and medium bodied. Not to my taste
so I'll defer to RP's rating.
"The 2003 (primarily Roussanne and Viognier)
possesses good body as well as abundant fruit, texture, and fat. The
2003 Cotes du Rhone red may be the finest example of this cuvee yet
produced. Tasting the deep ruby/purple-colored 2003 from several huge
tanks revealed it is loaded with fruit and body. This supple, exotic
effort should be a knock-out when released early next year." - (88-90) -
The Wine Advocate by Robert M. Parker Jr - 12/04. Gazette.net
review - E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone 2003 ($10) From the well-known
producer, this has wonderful red fruit aromas and flavors with moderate
tannins, tobacco and vanilla notes and a good smooth finish.
www.gazette.net
Blend of 55% Syrah, 35% Grenache, 10% Mourv�dre and others.
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November 3, 2005 - Bonny Doon
NV Muscat Vin de Glaciere -
RM 88 - Bright, clean
full flavored essence of pear, a hint of apple, tangerine and citrus.
Still seeking the right complement of aperitif and dessert wine
selections for Erin and Johnnie's banquet. This is a contender as Erin
and I had this on one of our memorable 'dates' at the Pump Room
on
Nov 20-21, 2003. |
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November 3, 2005 -
Loring Wine Company Santa Rita Hills Rosella's Vineyard Pinot Noir 2004 -
RM 89 $45 - Nice depth and balance but too much tart cherry on the
opening. Needs time to soften. After a while it reveal smoky plum and
cherry with a hint of spice. Tasted w/ Bill at Binny's Glen Ellen. |
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October 28,
2006 - Robert Craig Mt. Veeder Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 2002 -
RM 91, WE91,
Vinfolio 94, W&S 90
- $50 - Full, flavorful, black berry, black
currant, and licorice on a long smooth lasting finish. See other reviews
on
Robert Craig profile page. |
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Oct 20, 2006 -
Ch�teau Doisy-V�drines Sauterne Barsac Bordeaux 2003 - RM 88 RP 90 Barrel sample
according to Clyde Beffa, K&L's (SFO) Bordeaux Buyer: "Coconut and honey
aromas. Has some lemony undertones on the palate. Very rich and
concentrated. WS 89: "Wow. This shows super intense aromas of dried
pineapple, apple tart and pecan pie with honey. Full-bodied and
medium-sweet, with lovely honey character and a medium finish. |
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Oct 16, 2006 - Hazy Blur Baroota
Australian Shiraz 2003 - RM 92, RP 91, ST 88 - Deep dark purple,
full bodied, thick, rich, black raspberry, blackberry, plum, smoke,
spice, and a hint of clove and anise. Fantesca Estate Winery Spring Mountain
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 - RM 94 W&S 94, WS 91, WA 90
- Wonderful full aromas of fruit, floral, vanilla, and a hint of
smoke and eucalyptus. Burst of flavor of black currant, ripe black
raspberry, plum, spice, a hint of caramel, vanilla, smoke - all
accented by silky, velvety full and firm yet very approachable
tannins that are seamlessly integrated and long on the finish.
Tasted at Del Frisco's Steakhouse in NYC w/ Eric W, Kirk D
and NY friends. |
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Oct 15, 2006 - Domaine Serene
Evenstad Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir 2003
- RM 92 - Dark, scents of anise, full flavor of black fruit, anise,
cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla on the smooth finish. Tasted at
Birch Bar in the Westin Boston Convention Center. |
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Oct 8, 2006 - Freemark Abbey Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1995
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RM 87 - Dark, earthy berry with a long full finish of earthy
smoky cassis and firm tannins. |
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Oct 1, 2006 -
Cline Cellars Contra Costa
County Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2005 -
RM 88 - Winemaker notes - "Shows wonderful
dusty raspberry, blackberry, white pepper and spice, with coffee and
chocolate characters. Aging in new and used wood has lent this wine a
subtle vanilla quality that nicely complements the explosive fruit
notes. Enjoy now or cellar for 5 to 7 years. Rick notes - Great value
wine that is easy drinking, deep purple colour, mouthful of smoky
raspberry and plum fruit, and spice. Tasted at Mamo's gala Chip
engagement party. |
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Sept 22, 2006 -
Ch. Ste. Michelle Canoe Ridge Estate Vineyard Merlot,
Columbia Valley, Washington 2002 -
RM 89, WS 90 -
Powerful and
concentrated with intense flavors of black cherry, ripe plum, coffee and
toast, accented by the distinctive Columbia Valley terrior cognac taste.
Wine Spectator rating 90 points: "Supple, refined and detailed, a gem
that shows a slightly different hue with each turn of the light,
offering black cherry, currant, white pepper and sage character as the
flavors persist on the long finish. Drink now through 2012."(HS) -
Tasted w/ L, Erin & Johnnie at
2001 Blue at the Oak Brook Renaissance
Hotel. |
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Sept 20, 2006 -
Fantesca Estate Winery Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 - RM 94 W&S
94, WS 91, WA 90 -
Wow! Fabulous first release from this new label and producers - Duane
and Susan Hoff and their Spring Mountain property Fantesca Estate
Winery. Wonderful full aromas of fruit, floral, vanilla, and a hint
of smoke and eucalyptus. Burst of flavor of black currant, ripe
black raspberry, plum, spice, a hint of caramel, vanilla, smoke -
all accented by silky, velvety full and firm yet very approachable
tannins that are seamlessly integrated and long on the finish. Aged
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moderate toast 70-80 new French Oak.
Delicious wine. Tasted with producer Duane Hoff
on his inaugural launch release marketing tour stop
in Chicago. Only 800 cases produced. Their winemakers are
Kirk and Nils Venge whom we visited during our Napa trips.
Get it while you can at
www.fantesca.com.
Also
tasted: Heitz Cellars Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 -
RM 89. Not a fair fight up against the bigger, fuller, richer,
firmer Fantesca. By itself this would be a nicely balanced easy
drinking flavorful multi-layered Cab. These wines were tasted at the
ClubHouse Restaurant in Oak Brook. Back at home we compared the
Fantesca to Pirouette Walla Walla, Columbia Valley Red Wine 2003
- RM 92 - A joint venture of "Napa Valley Wine Savant" Phillip
Melka, August Huneas of Quintessa, and Allen Shoup of Washington
State. Interesting blend of small lot vineyard fruit of cabernet
56%, merlot 22%, cab franc 9%, petit verdot 3%, and syrah10%.
Slightly earthy, dark fruits, full bodied, firm, essence of black
raspberry, black currant, licorice, a hint of pepper and subtle
mocha on the finish. |
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Aug 27, 2006 - Robert
Craig Napa Valley Affinity Blend 2002 - RM 92 - Full forward fruit
of blackberry, hints of tar, raspberry, currant, cedar and a
whisper of mocha and licorice with a long
big finish accented by firm tannins. A perennial favorite, this remains
a good value Napa cabernet as Robert has continues to hold price at a
reasonable level while maintaining consistent top quality. Great
complement to L's fabulous beef tenderloin dinner. Even better
accompaniment to the double chocolate cake dessert! This wine should
soften a bit and be more approachable with a little age. |
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| Aug 26,
2006 - Laurent-Perrier Grand Siecle 'La Cuvee' Brut; Buller
Victoria Premium Fine Tokay - Cellar selections opened to
celebrate the engagement of Erin & Johnnie, with L, Ryan & Michele,
and Barb. |
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| Novy Vineyards Santa Lucia
Highlands Syrah 2003 - RM 88 - Big rich forward ripe raisiny
blackberry and strong accent of mineral that almost overwhelmes the
fruit. |
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Aug 25, 2006 - Sea
Smoke Central Coast, Santa Rita Hills,
Southing Vineyard Pinot Noir 2004 - RM 93 - Winemakers tasting notes -
Dark garnet in color, the 2004 Southing is elegantly styled. Aromas
of wild blueberries and black cherries mingle with violets and subtle
dustiness. This wine has ample body and firm, ripe tannins that
integrate well with its cool climate acidity. Review by RoundersRob
sums it up well - "Transparent burgandy-red color that barely stains
the cork. Cherries and other dark berries mixed with a little bit of
spice on the nose with some dark fruits and maybe a little plum on the
palate. The taste is quite complex, with a lot of comingling flavors. A
full bodied pinot noir with a very long and smooth finish." Tasted
w/ L at Branmor's in Bolingbrook.
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Aug 22, 2006 - Shafer Napa Valley Merlot 2002 - RM 90
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Smooth and sophisticated berry, raspberry, plum, currant, mocha, and
vanilla. Canoe Ridge Columbia Valley Merlot 2002 -
RM 90 - Forward blackberry, black cherry, a hint of earthy tar and
that distinctive Columbia Valley terrior taste of essence of cognac. Orin Swift "The
Prisoner" Napa Valley Red Wine Blend 2004 -
RM 91 - A wild blend of 53% Zinfandel, 15% Syrah, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon,
10% Charbono and 7% Petite Sirah, the Prisoner is loaded with dark black
fruits, spice and hints of sweet oak. Park Taylor Elouise
Christman Woodbridge Petit Syrah Eldorado Tempranillo Blend 2002 -
RM 91 -
You saw it here first - a discovery by AJ, this is the inaugural
vintage release by this emerging producer. Brought by
AJ from his cellar,
a rare bottle of this as yet unreleased wine bottled from the only
available barrel. Upon release there will be only 25 cases
available. Dark, forward fruit of blackberry, black cherry, smoky tar and anise
on the finish. Tasted w. AJ, Carla M., Jeff M., John G., Mark R., Chris at
Palace
Arms Restaurant in Brown Palace Hotel in Denver - teaming
dinner at Intel-link conference.
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Aug 19, 2006 Tasted at Bob &
Gloria's annual 'Fiesta'. |
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Aug 17, 2006 - Joseph Phelps Napa Valley Merlot
2001 - RM 91 - Smooth flavorful anise, mocha, tar, berry and
oak with a long silky finely integrated tannin finish. Joseph Perrier
Brut Cuvee Royal Champagne NV.
RM 88
- 35% chardonnay, 35% pinot noir and 30% pinot meunier from 23 crus. Tasted at the
Garden Restaurant at the
Art Institute of
Chicago featuring live Yves Francois Jazz w/ L, George and Kay M., celebrating our 32nd
anniversary and Kay's birthday.
Pics. |
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Aug 16, 2006 - Elan Vineyards Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon 1996 - RM 89 - $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. Pol Roger NV Reserve Champagne - Visited last week
during our
Champagne
Wine Experience. |
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| Tasted w/ L., Ryan &
Michelle, Erin & Johnnie, & A on the deck. |
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Aug 14, 2006 - Steele Stymie
Lake County Founder's Reserve Syrah 2001 - RM 92 - $34 - Rich, full
flavored forward fruit, smoky currant, mocha, red raspberry and plum. Very flavorful and pleasant on the mid-palate. Tasted
w/ Brian B. at Idylwood Cafe and Wine Bar in Falls Church. |
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| Aug 11, 2006 - Selection
of Italian whites at
Vini da
Sabatini in Frankfurt w/
L. and Fahid, Alec and Lauren. |
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| Aug 9, 2006 - Selection of
German white wines at
Zum G�ldenen Schaf
in Altstadt in Heidelberg. |
| Aug 5, 2006 - Domaine de
Karliac Bordeaux 2005 - RM 87 - Les Garriguieres Cotes du
Provence 2005 - RM 87 - Tasted w/ L and Alec at
Chez Clement
on Rue de Marbeuf in Elysees 8�me in Paris. |
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| Aug 4, 2006 - Crochet Cellier
de la Thibaude Sancerre 2005 - RM 87 - Misserey Bourgogne
Haut Cotes de Nuits 2003 - RM 87 - Tasted w/ L and Alec at
Chez Francis at Place de Alma in Paris.
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Aug 1, 2006 - Steele Stymie
Lake County Founder's Reserve Merlot 2002 - RM 92 - $30 - Rich, full
flavored forward fruit, red raspberry, plum, currant and a hint of
leather and mocha. Very flavorful and pleasant on the mid-palate. Tasted
w/ Jim K at Idylwood Cafe and Wine Bar in Falls Church |
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July 27, 2006 - Robert
Mondavi Napa Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 1991 - RM 84 -
Earthiness taking over the fading fruit, which hangs on at the end with
slightly tart black cherry, hints of anise, and plum, and a lingering
cedar and black raspberry on the full finish that then falls off
abruptly. |
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July 22, 2006 -
Swanson Alexis Napa Valley Estate Red
Wine 1995 - RM 88, WS 92 - $40 - Big firm structure with moderate tannins -
smoke, blackberry and black cherry offset by tar,
bark and gamey notes. Interesting blend of
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah,
and Merlot from Schmidt Ranch vineyards, located along Oakville�s
Mayacamas foothills on the west side of the valley. This is the second
release of this wine named for Alexis Swanson, one of three daughters of owners Clarke
and Elizabeth. Alexis works for the winery in public relations. |
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July 20, 2006 - Pellegrini Cloverdale Ranch
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 - RM 86 - $21 - Slightly
tart black cherry, red pepper, hints of cassis, tar, cedar and spice.
Tasted at home w/ Erin and Johnnie.
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| July
19, 2006 - Gallo of Sonoma Alexander Valley Barrelli Creek
Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 - RM 89 - $26 - Big fruit
forward medium bodied red cherry, black raspberry, currant, and
spice on the finish. Tasted w/ BJB and MW at
Michael's in
Key West. |
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| July 18, 2006 -
Guenoc Langtry Meritage 2002 - RM 90 - $40 - Big powerful full bodied,
fruit forward, mouthful of ripe red currant and black cherry, a touch of
cedar on the finish. Bordeaux style blend of 70% Lake County, 30% Napa
County Cabernet Sauvignon. Tasted w/ BJB and MW at
Cafe Marquesa in
Key West. |
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July 17, 2006 -
Northstar Columbia Valley Merlot 2002 -
RM 90 - $40 - Rich, full bodied and complex, ripe
currant, black berry, plum, and that classic distinctive terrior cognac
giving way to a hint of mocha and cassis with huge but finely integrated
silky tannins on the finish. Blend of 76% Merlot, 23% Cabernet
Sauvignon, and 1% Petit Verdot. Tasted w/ BJB and MW at
Mangia Mangia in
Key West. |
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July 15, 2006 - Four Graces
Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2004 - RM 89 - $23 - Full forward mouth
feel of ripe red berry and black cherry flavors, a hint of spice and
touch of mineral, bright fruit and finely integrated tannins on a long
finish. - Wine Spectator says: "Lithe and distinctive for its raspberry
and white pepper notes around a nice core of cherry and sweet spice
flavors. Drink now through 2010." (05/06) Stephen Tanzer's International
Wine Cellar: "Dark red. Forest floor scents, wild strawberry, and hints
of game and toasty oak on the nose. Spicy and firm in the mouth, with
dark berry flavors and more suggestions of game and earthy wild
mushrooms. This has good acidity and finishes with a firm, tannic bite."
(May/Jun 05) |
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July 11, 2006 - Paloma
Spring Mountain Napa Valley Merlot 2003 - RM 95 WS 90 - $75 - Reduxx
of the WS Wine of the Year for 2003 - the 2001 vintage of two years ago.
Impressive, smooth polished, complex harmonious symphony of finely
integrated aromas and flavors - huge currant, red raspberry, milk
chocolate, a hint of ripe plum, sweet oak and a bit of vanilla on the
long smooth polished finish.
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 black cheery, ripe 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. Fabulous, fascinating comparative tasting of two
similar wines. The Uriah is a mini version that stands up well to the
Paloma. The Paloma is more complex, sophisticated, and long lived than
the Uriah which is more overt, forward, and a bigger punch of fruit
flavor that falls off at the end relative to he longer lived and more
polished and easier drinking Paloma. Tasted w/ Rick C. at Ruth's Chris
in Fairfax, VA. A great pair that match up against, compare and
complement each other well. |
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July 9, 2006 - Sterling Napa
Valley Three Palms Vineyard
Merlot 1999 - RM 87 - Release price of $50. Complex floral aromas
and flavors of leather, earthy black cherry, berry, cedar and a finish
of subtle spicy cinnamon and tannins. Mix of 79% Merlot, 12% Cabernet
Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot. Perfect complement to grilled flank steak,
chocolate dessert, and gouda cheese finale. Tasted w/ L., Erin & Johnnie
on the hot tepid deck offset by wonderful summer breezes. |
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July 6, 2006 - Provenance
Napa Valley Carneros Merlot 2002
- RM 88 - Ruby red color.
Plum,
blackberry, currant, a
hint of cedar and subtle but lingering mocha on a long polished mild
tannin finish. L and I discovered this wine visiting the winery during
our
2003 Napa Wine Experience. Groth Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2005 - RM 89 - Soft and smooth
pear, a hint of ripe apple and touch of mango and peach. Both tasted
with SE, BJB, and Eric W.
at Michael's Restaurant in Key West.
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July 5, 2006 - Stonestreet Alexander Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 - RM 89 - Dark berry, cassis with hints of
spice and mocha and a hint of tar on the moderate finish. Tasted w/ SE,
BJB, and Eric W. at Gus' Grille Restaurant at the Marriott in Key Largo. |
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July 3-4, 2006 - Quilceda
Creek Red Table Wine 2000 - RM 88 ST 88 - $30 - Dark ruby
colour. Aromatic, flabours or black raspberry, black cherry, graphite,
cedar and smoky, spicy oak. Finishes with firm-edged tannins and good
length. 90% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cab franc, 3% merlot - 22 months in
French oak - barrels declassified from their flagship first label - this
is their second label.
Raymond
Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1997 - RM 88 WS 90 SS - $26 -
Dark, firm, blackberry, black raspberry, hints of bark, and finishing
with a a subtle mocha and anise. A bit subdued. Tasted w/ L, Erin &
Johnnie, Ryan, & Bob L. - wonderful holiday grilled steak dinner.
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July 1, 2006 - Domaine Serene Evenstad Vineyard
Reserve Pinot Noir 2001 - RM 92 -
Full flavors of ripe plum, strawberry, blueberry,
a hint of vanilla and spice with a long lingering soft finish.
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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 - Ch�teau 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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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 WS 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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