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July 30, 2007 - Henry's Drive Cabernet Sauvignon
2002 |
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July 28, 2007 -Mitolo
Reiver Barossa Valley Shiraz 2004 - RM
91 $49 - Thick and rich, ripe, concentrated, dense black
fruits, black currant, slightly sweet, a bit of mineral
and cedar, integrated oak, and soft tannins. Tasted w/
L, BYOB at Angeli's in Naperville. Standard typical
'usual' regular entree selections - eggplant
parmigiana for L and the Veal picata for me with the
special apple walnut blue cheese salad - all obvious
choices and superb unbeatable selections.Service was
outstanding and exceptional as usual. |
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July 22, 2007 -
Kilikanoon
Parable Barossa Valley
Shiraz 2004
- RM 93 RP 96 - Rich, full flavored fruit forward - ripe
plum, red raspberry, currant, and blueberry with a hint
of sweet oak and vanilla on the full finish.
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July 17, 2007 -
Mitolo Jester McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
- Big, forward fruit - slightly tart cherry, smoky black
berry, ripe loganberry, a hint of camphor and charcoal
on the finish. Avalon Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
2005 - Soft, light-medium bodied, plum,
currant, , vanilla and bark. Tasted at
Tallula in
Arlington, VA. |
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July 16, 2007
- Chappellett Napa Valley Mountain Cuvee 2004 -
RM 90; WE 90 - $26 - Full flavored fruit of black berry,
ripe black cherry, a hint of soft vanilla, sweet oak,
tea modest tannins on the finish. Bordeaux style blend -
Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Merlot (34%), Cabernet Franc
(4%), Petit Verdot (2%). |
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July 10, 2007
-
Keenan Napa
Valley Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 -
RM 92 W&S 92 - Deep
bright garnet colour. Forward full bodied fruit
with chewy plum, raspberry and currant flavors.
Winemaker notes - The Estate grown Cabernet
imparts amazing concentration and remarkable
structure, while the portion of Cabernet
harvested from the Pope Valley region of Napa
has added complex aromas and a balanced
mid-palate. Merlot from the Napa Carneros
district imparted ripe berry nuances and plenty
of forward fruit. |
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Flora
Springs Trilogy Napa Valley 2003 - RM 91 WE 91
CS - Bordeaux style blend
that resembles the earthy black berry and black
cherry fruit, depth, breadth and elegance of a
left bank claret. Heathcote II, Heathcote,
Victoria, Australia Shiraz 2004 -
RM 94 RP 94
- $40 - Inky/purple color.
Huge full beautiful aromas of fruit that permeate the
room upon opening. Full bodied, rich, structured, full
forward flavors of graphite, blackberries, black
raspberries, chewy currant, mocha and mineral. Tasted
BYOB at Francesca's for RG Ad Board Dinner. |
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July
7, 2007 - Heathcote II, Heathcote,
Victoria, Australia Shiraz 2004 - RM 94 RP 94
- $40 - Inky/purple color.
Huge full beautiful aromas of fruit that permeate the
room upon opening. Full bodied, rich, structured, full
forward flavors of graphite, blackberries, black
raspberries, chewy currant, mocha and mineral. |
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July 4, 2007 -
Marquis Phillips Shiraz 2005 - RM 88 RP 91 -
Big full bodied - essence of mocha, raisins, pepper and
spicy, earthy licorice. Great value at under $15. |
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July 2, 2007
- 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. Steele Stymie Pinot
Noir 2004 - RM 89 - Light-medium
bodied, earthy blackberry, black cherry and a hint of
smoke. Tasted w/ CM, L & K C, &
Jim K at Idylwood Cafe and Wine Bar in Falls Church |
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July
1, 2007 - Laetitia Limite Pinot Noir
2005
- RM 90 - Dark, black cherry and plum, balanced
and complex, layers of blackberry, mushroom and dusty
earth. Heller Estate Central Valley Meritage 2003
- RM 90 Black currant, ripe black cherry, plum and
cassis fruit with a structured finish of soft tannins
and oak. Leaping Lizard Napa Valley
Merlot 2003 - RM 88. Flavors f
blueberry and blackberry with a hint of mocha tinged
chocolate, vanilla and oak. Tasted w/ L and Erin
at the outdoor Garden Cafe at the Art Institute of
Chicago.
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June 30, 2007 - Chateau Lynch Bages Pauillac
Bordeaux 2002 - RM 91 -
WS 92-94 -
RP 90-92 -"Aromas
and flavors of currant, bright berry, spices,
cedar and earth - medium bodied, with soft
smooth tannins and a long, currant and mineral
finish."
Chateau Clerc Milon Pauillac
Bordeaux 1997 - RM 89 RP 89 -
Second wine of Chateau Mouton
Rothschild. "Subtle fruit, blackcurrant and
chocolate aromas, hints of spice and smoke.
Medium bodied with soft smooth tannins on a long
earthy finish. Tasted w/ L and Bob & Gloria,
BYOB at Angelis. |
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June 24, 2007 -
Paradigm Napa Valley Oakville Estate Cabernet
Sauvignon 1995
- RM 93 WS 93 - Magnum. Fragrant, soft supple
tannin, medium body, layers of cherry and black
currant fruit intermixed with spice, cedar,
licorice, and herbs.
Barossa Old Vines Company
Shiraz 2003 -
RM 94 RP 93 - RP review -"A
limited cuvee produced from 109, 127, and 152
year old vineyards, this 2003 shiraz was aged 24
months in a combination of new French and
American wood as well as a smaller amount of
older oak. Huge, ripe, and surprisingly subtle
and polished, this dense
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purple-hued
wine offers layers of blackberry and currant
fruit intermingled with spicy new oak, licorice,
cedar, and loamy soil characteristics. Full
bodied and voluptuous, but not over the top,
this beauty should drink well for 10-15 years."
Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, Issue 161,
Oct 31,
2005.
From the
cellar, BYOB, tasted w/ L, Erin & Johnny, Ryan &
Michelle at
Cafe Matou near Ryan's. |
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June 20, 2007 - Marquis Phillips '9'
McLaren Vale Shiraz 2005 - RM 93 - RP 96-98 $40 -
RP
review says "...a sexy effort... Its inky plum/purple
color is followed by sumptuous aromas of creme de
cassis, blackberry liqueur, smoked meats, and toasty
American oak (from aging in 100% new American barrels).
Opulent, viscous, and thick, this succulent Shiraz is
meant to offer immediate appeal. It should last...
becoming more civilized and measured with additional
age." The Wine Advocate.
Peter Lehman Clancy's Barossa Blend 1998 -
RM 88 WS 92 - $20 Tight
and a bit hard - the fruit is a bit closed - subtle
blueberry, blackberry and a hint of currant and mineral
with a |
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long full finish. Duel of
old world vs. new contrasting styles.
Tasted on the deck w/ L & John and Cath McM 'welcome'
dinner. |
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June 19, 2007 - BlackWing McLaren Vale Langhorne
Creek Shiraz 2005 - RM 87 - WA 90 -
$10 Medium bodied, mineral,
black cherry, smoke, spice and earth. |
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June 17, 2007
- Markham Napa Valley Petit Syrah 2001 - RM 91 - $24
- Dark purple - huge fragrance and mouthful of forward
fruit currant, black raspberry, an undercurrent of cedar
and black pepper with a long smooth subtle mocha finish. |
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June 12, 2007 - Daedalus Cellars Jezebel Rouge
2004 - RM 87 - An interesting blend of 30%
Cabernet Franc, 22% Merlot, 19% Syrah, 15% Pinot Noir,
7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Zinfandel, this is a
structured and well-balanced wine with rich, forward
fruit flavors. It lacks the complexity, polish or
sophistication one might expect of such a blend. Rather
its simple and easy drinking. Release price was $18.
Tasted w/ JK at Idylwild Grill in Falls
Church, where as always the usual Sesame Pan Seared Tuna
was fabulous.. |
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June 10, 2007 - Rosemount Balmoral McLaren Vale
Syrah 1997 - RM 86 - Earthy and a slight bit
corked or perhaps end of life? Will try another soon
from the cellar. Tasted w/ L at current favorite
neighborhood restaurant Angelis. BYOB
from the home cellar. |
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June 4 & 9, 2007 - Gibson Barossa Vale Shiraz
2003 - RM 91 $40 - Rich, full flavored full
bodied, dark - berry, plum, a hint of blueberry and
mineral. Tapestry McLaren Vale Shiraz 2004 -
RM 88 - Well balanced dark berry, black cherry,
mocha and a hint of mineral. Tasted w/ L, Ryan &
Michelle, at Erin and Johnny's to inaugurate their new
deck and for Evelyn's birthday bar-b-que w/ Keith and
Alec. |
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June 7, 2007 - Louis
Martini Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 -
RM 88 - Medium balanced berry, plum, slightly earthy
with a hint of cedar - blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon,
18% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Sangiovese, 0.5%
Petite Verdot, 0.25% Petite Sirah, 0.5% Syrah. -
Rodney Strong Sonoma County Alexander Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 2004 - RM 89
Medium bodied, well balanced - berry, plum and a hint of
mocha on the finish - 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot,
1% Cabernet Franc.
Grove Street Napa Valley
Meritage NV. RM 87 - Blend of Cabernet
Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. A majority
of the grapes were sourced from the Beckstoffer and
Jaeger vineyards. Producer notes - Deep hues of red and
purple from dense fruit. Rich, ripe aromas of intense,
ripe blackberry and currant laced with tones of
chocolate and cedar - flavors of ripe berry, licorice
and toasted oak follows with nice concentration and
texture. Incredible value at $12. Tasted at Jan & Bill's
in Huntington Beach. |
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June 6, 2007 Grgich
Hills Napa Valley Chardonnay 2004 - RM 89 -
Medium bodied crisp, well balanced, clean balance of
oak, citrus, fruit and hint of mineral and honey. This
is the first Estate bottled chardonnay from this
well-known producer. The grapes are from their American
Canyon and Carneros vineyards and from the southern tip
of Napa Valley near the bay. Perfect compliment to
grilled whitefish at Mistral Restaurant
in Sherman Oaks. |
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June 3, 2007 -
Branham Estate Jazz Napa
Valley Blend 2005
- RM 88 - Interesting blend of
Zinfandel, Petiti Syrah, Cabernet and Syrah.
Full bodied and flavored. A bit bold as four
flavors compete for dominance. Dark berry, a
hint of licorice and bark. Tasted with L and Dr.
Pat at Francesca's
on Taylor in
Chicago after visiting E&J's and Ryan's.
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Saturday June 2, 2007 - Elderton Barossa Valley
Shiraz 2003 - RM 88 -
Dark purple. Rich ripe plum, mocha and vanilla
overtaken by mineral. - Other reviews:
The Wine Buyer
The dark, inky color and
the big nose with sweet aromas of blackberry,
smoke and licorice is a portent of the
extraction to come. On the palate this wine is
extremely fruit forward with ripe and delicious
flavors of blackberry, plum and mocha with well
integrated, slightly spicy tannins on a
lingering finish. Score: 93.
November 15, 2005. |
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The Wine
Advocate "The 2003
Shiraz Barossa boasts a dense purple color,
aromas of creme de cassis, asphalt, smoke, and
earth, well-integrated, sweet, toasty oak, and a
big, full-bodied, concentrated personality.
Great fruit, huge body, sweet tannin, and a long
finish suggest it should hit its peak in 2-4
years, and last for 12-15.
Score: 91. �Robert Parker, Oct 31, 2005."
Tapestry McLaren Vale Shiraz 2004 -
RM 88 - Well balanced dark berry, black cherry,
mocha and a hint of mineral. |
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May 31, 2007 -
Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou St
Julien Bordeaux 1981 - RM 88 - Lots of
life left in this vintage cellar selection -
medium bodied, earthy, leathery, black cherry,
cassis and tobacco. |
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May 28, 2007 - Elan Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 1994 -
WS 88 RM 89 - Supple
black cherry, plum, berry and chewy smoky, toasty oak on
a moderate tannin finish. |
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May 27, 2007 -
Chateau Gruaud Larose St Julien Bordeaux 1989 -
RM 89 WS 93, 91 - Earthy leather, tobacco, a hint of tar
mixed with black cherry and berry with moderate tannin
finish. Sequoia Grove Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 1989 - RM 87 - Tasted at Bill C's
commemorating Matt's graduation. |
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May 23, 2007 -
Sonoma Coast Vineyards
Syrah 2003 - RM 90
- Dark, medium bodied berry, a hint of
spice,cedar, tar, bark and mocha. Tasted at
Idywild Grill in Falls Church with JK.
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May 22, 2007 -
Paradigm Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1994 -
RM 91 WS 92 - Dark inky
color. Full forward fruit flavors of currant, ripe plum,
black cherry, cedar and a hint of anise and milk
chocolate on a full firm finish. Elan Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 1994 -
WS 88 RM 89 - Supple black cherry,
plum, berry and chewy smoky, toasty oak on a moderate
tannin finish.
We enjoyed
Elan and Paradigm as participants of our
98 and
99
Napa Wine Experiences. Ravenswood
South Australia Shiraz 2004 -
RM 88. Review to
follow. Gala family surf & turf 'double nickel' birthday
dinner w/ L, E&J, R&M, and ATM. |
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May 16, 2007
-
Torbreck Barossa Valley Woodcutters Shiraz 2005 - RM
90 RP 92 - $20 - Dark inky colour. Bouquet of
mineral detracts from the huge flavors of blueberry,
blackberry, cassis and licorice on the smooth tannin
finish that closes with tinny mineral. Parker puts it
imaginatively well in his review - "The
2005 Woodcutters Shiras may be the finest David Powell
has yet produced. This beauty offers dazzling layers of
fruit, texture, richness, and purity. Blackberry jam,
cr�me de cassis, licorice, white flowers, and black
olive scents jump from the glass of this full-bodied,
silky-textured, gorgeous red. It is meant to be drunk
during its first 2-4 years of life. This knock-out
effort is one of the great values in the marketplace. 92
points, Wine Advocate." |
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May 12, 2007 - Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou St
Julien Bordeaux 1981 - RM 88 - Lots of
life left in this vintage cellar selection -
medium bodied, earthy, leathery, black cherry,
cassis and tobacco. Torbreck, The Struie
Barossa Valley Shiraz 2004 - RM 92 RP96 -
$40 - Full bodied, dark, purple, chewy full firm
tannins, ripe berry, black raspberry, mineral, camphor,
a finish of licorice, tar and bark. Markham
Napa Valley Petit Syrah 2001 -
RM 91 - $24 - Dark purple - huge
fragrance and mouthful of forward fruit currant, black
raspberry, an undercurrent of cedar and black pepper
with a long smooth subtle mocha finish.
Tasted w/ L, Evelyn & Keith, Erin & Johnny, Ryan, and
Alec for gala Mother's Day celebration surf &
turf dinner on the deck. |
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May
7, 2007 -
Fantesca
Estate & Winery Napa Valley Spring Mountain
Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 -
RM 93 - Full bodied, firm
structured, polished, well balanced harmonious
flavors of red currant, raspberry, blackberry,
spice, and a hint of cassis on a long firm
tannin finish.
Fantesca
Estate & Winery Los Carneros Chardonnay 2005
- RM 91-
Well balanced,
full bodied - essence of citrus, buttery, subtle
oak and nut fruits on a long full puckering
finish. Limited production releases available at
the winery on-line and at some finest
restaurants(www.fantesca.com)
- get some while you can! The second release for
of this 'dream team' of the new owners Duane &
Susan Huff and winemakers Kirk and Nils Venge.
Tasted compliments of the producers, these are a
real treat, worthy of a special occasion such as
our gala family steak and king crableg dinner w/
L, Alec, Erin & Johnny. |
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May 4, 2007 -
Rosenblum Cellars Santa Barbara County Base Camp
Vineyards Syrah 2003 - RM 89 - $15 - Full
bodied, super ripe sweet fig and dark berry and black
cherry. Good value selection. |
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May 2, 2007 - Fantesca
Estate & Winery Napa Valley Spring Mountain
Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 - RM 92 RP 90 -
Dark ink colour, firm tannins and concentrated,
black currant, licorice with a finish of black
raspberry and hint of dark chocolate. |
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Northstar
Columbia Valley Merlot 2002 - RM 90 -
Rich, full-bodied wine, flavors of cassis and
red plum with a firm finish. Pine Ridge
Crimson Creek Merlot 2003 - RM 88 -
Medium
bodied - berry, cherry, and hint of vanilla, tea
and tobacco. with smoky, toasty finish.
Tasted with Chris S., Michael S., Gene G., and
KD at Smith & Wollensky in Chicago - DoDIIS
dinner. |
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April 28, 2007 -
Robert Craig Napa Valley Affinity 1997 - RM 93 -
Rich full bodied. A bit earthy. Fruit filled with currant, black
berry, cassis and black cherry. (82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 3%
Cabernet Franc). Better than earlier tastings, this
stellar vintage is just starting to come of age. Perhaps
the best Bob Craig Affinity in a long while. One of our featured
producers at the
98
and
99 Napa Wine Experience.
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April 26, 2007 -
Hess Collection Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1990
- RM 87 - Reaching end of life, certainly past its
prime, the black fruit and black cherry is falling
off a bit and giving way to earth and leather. |
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April 25, 2007 -
Davis Family Vineyards Russian
River Valley Old Vines Zinfandel 2003 -
RM 89 - Full fruit aroma and concentrated
flavors of black berry, black cherry and a bit of spice.
The winemaker calls if 'brown spice' flavor. This is
from ancient vines planted in 1896.This
old vine Zinfandel sold out in one day at the winery. |
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April 22, 2007
- Del Dotto Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Franc 1998
- RM 90 - Medium bodied,
slightly earthy and leathery, spicy black cherry,
pepper, cassis with firm lingering tannins on the long
finish. Perfect compliment to B-B-Que rib dinner on the
deck w/ L, Alec, and Erin & Johnny just returned from
Hawaii. |
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April 21, 2007 -
Caymus Estate Napa
Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
1996 (WS 90) (RM92) ($70) Smooth, soft, full
fruit with a black cherry, currant, pear, and toasty oak
flavor and a nice finish. No Special Selection was
produced in 96 so the 'select' grapes are found in the
Estate. Blend of 87% cabernet sauvignon, 6% cab franc
and 7% merlot. WS says it lacks complexity and fullness
relative to other vintages but I found it very much in
character to my other tasting experiences such as the 91
vintage which we hold in our cellar.
Elyse Napa Valley Rutherford Petit Syrah 2004
- RM 88 ($29) Deep, dark
purple/black color. Intense, concentration flavors that
one review describes as "blackberries, espresso, soy
sauce, bittersweet chocolate and spicy oak and vanilla".
Tasted w/ L, Bob &
Gloria at G's gala birthday fiesta. |
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April 18, 2007 - Hanna Two
Ranch Red Proprietary Blend 2001 -
RM 88 - Spicy red cherry, berry and mocha
on the finish. Tasted w/ L, Jackie P. and John at
Francesca Amici in Elmhurst. |
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April 16, 2007 - Chateau
Beaumont Haut Medoc Bordeaux Cru Bourgeois 1989
- RM 86 - Medium bodied - earthy leathery grassy floral
fragrance - cassis, smoky cherry and black berry with a
moderate tannin finish. |
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April 14, 2007 -
Chateau Pontet Canet Pauillac Bordeaux Grand Cru Classe 2000 - RM 91 -
Dark full bodied - elegant floral, earthy
cassis, smoky black berry - long firm silky smooth
tannins.
Beaulieu Vineyards Napa Valley Tapestry
Reserve 1998 - RM 92 - Dark full bodied -
elegant dark berry fruit predominates with silky smooth
long tannin finish.
Markham
Napa Valley Petit Syrah 2001 -
RM 91 - $24 - Dark purple - huge
fragrance and mouthful of forward fruit currant, black
raspberry, an undercurrent of cedar and black pepper
with a long smooth subtle mocha finish.
Tasted w/ L, Dr Dan, and Bobby L at home with steak
salmon dinner. |
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Acacia Napa Valley Pinot Noir
2005 - RM 87 - Light to medium body - dark
berry, black cherry, and a hint of mocha on a short
modest finish. Tasted w/ Dr Dan at Malibu Grill in
Bloomington. |
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April 12, 2007 - '75' Beckstoffer Family Lake County
Amber Knolls Vineyard Cabernet
Sauvignon 2002 - RP 91 RM 88 - $20 - A slight hard mineral and
flinty graphite edge detracts from the firm smoky dark berry and black
cherry and spice. |
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April 11, 2007 - Kunde Estate Winery Sonoma County Reserve
Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 - RM 90 - Full bodied - slightly
earthy dark berry, a hint of currant and cassis, with smooth tannin
finish. Tasted w/ JC and BJB at Cafe in Falls Church. |
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April 8, 2007 -
Marquis Phillips McLaren Vale Shiraz 9 2005 - RM 91 - Big rich
forward overly ripe dark berry, mineral and graphite.
Parker
loves this stuff! WA 96-98 Pts. - "The 2005 Shiraz 9 (a 4,000-case cuvee
that spends 18 months in new and one-year-old American oak) reveals a
big, toasty, smoky nose, but the oak is beautifully absorbed by
extravagant quantities of blackberry and cassis fruit intermixed with
licorice, incense, and spice. This full-bodied, powerful, rich, layered
stunner should drink well for a decade." |
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April 7, 2007 -
Clarendon Hills Brookman Vineyard Shiraz 1999 - RM 90 RP 90 ST 90 - $74 -
Predominant mineral graphite overpowers the dark berry fruit but is
moderated by a subtle currant, earthy licorice, truffle and a wisp of
caramel on the finish.
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April 4, 2007 -
Markham Napa Valley Petit Syrah 2001 - RM 91 - $24 - Dark purple - huge fragrance and mouthful of
forward fruit currant, black raspberry, an undercurrent of cedar and black pepper
with a long smooth subtle mocha finish.
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March 29, 2007 -
Jaffurs Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Barbara County Syrah 2002 - RM 88
RP 89 - $30 - Medium bodied, full forward white pepper, smoky
mineral, ripe cherry, black berry, black currant, cedar and moderately firm tannins
on the finish. Tasted w/ L at Branmor's in B'Brook.
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March 28, 2007 -
Navarra Red Guitar Old Vine 2005 - RM 86 - $11 - Medium bodied, dark, full
fragrance of red berry fruit highlighted by graphite mineral, and tar
with a hint of pepper and a moderate tannin finish. 55% tempranillo and
45% grenache. Tasted w/ Pete C & Gwen N at Cafe Elise in Munster.
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March 27, 2007 -
Ben Glaetzer Barossa Valley Amon Ra 2005 - RM 93 RP 98 - $59 - Dark berry,
graphite, mineral, cassis and a hint of vanilla with long silky firm
tannins on the finish. Tasted at Vino Volo at IAD.
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March 26, 2007 - Provenance
Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 2004 - RM 90 - Polished elegant balanced fruit - currant,
black raspberry, plum, oaky berry, and a hint of mocha. Canoe Ridge
Columbia Valley Merlot 2002 - RM 88 - Forward dark berry, a hint of
spicy cedar and mineral - essence of that Columbia Valley cognac taste. Ruffino Reserve Ducale Chianti Classico
2003 - RM 87 - Subdued medium bodied, spicy dark berry, hint of tar and
mocha. Tasted w/ EU team dinner at Magiano's in Tysons II. |
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March 22, 2007 - Markham Napa Valley Petit Syrah
2001 - RM 91 - $24 - Dark purple - huge fragrance and mouthful of
forward fruit currant, black raspberry, an undercurrent of cedar and black pepper
with a long smooth subtle mocha finish. |
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March 20, 2007 - 2 Up South Australia Shiraz 2005
- RM 86 - Mineral, and undercurrent of tin and creosote overpower
the fruit - good value none-the-less at $11. |
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March 18, 2007 -
Rosemount Estates McLaren Vale Balmoral Syrah 1998 - RM 93 - Dark
garnet purple color. Full forward flavor of currant, black raspberry,
blueberry, a hint of earthy cedar and dill on the silky tannin finish. |
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March 17, 2007 - Oliverhill Winery Jimmy Section Shiraz 2005
- RM 94 RP 96 - $35 - Rich full bodied forward fruit flavor of
raspberry, plum, currant and blackberry with a fine tannin finish.
Domaine Santa Duc Prestige des Haute Garrigues Gigondas 1998 -
RM 90 WS 94 - Intense black pepper, white pepper, mineral and tar
predominate over the spicy dark berry. Great compliment to bbq ribs.
Tasted with Bob & Gloria. |
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March 16, 2007 - Sociando Maillet Haut-Medoc
Bordeaux 1986 - RM 87 Earthy leather, cedar, cigar box and dark
berry. Cellar selection from magnum. - Hanna Sonoma Valley Bismark
Mountain Vineyard
Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 - RM 92 - Medium bodied, smooth easy
drinking, caramel, currant, red raspberry, a hint of nut and
vanillaberry on the long silky finish. |
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| Domain Chandon Carneros sparkling methode champonaise - RM 88 88% pinot noir, 11% pinot menieure and
1% chardonnay. Val Serena Il Santo Toscana dessert wine - RM
86 - Smoky nut flavors predominate over the fruit. Good value.
Boutari Samos Greece Muscat dessert wine
- RM 87 - "A ripe and round dessert wine, sweet and smooth
with plenty of body and delicious apricot flavors and aromas, though
not a lot of complexity. Drink now." Reviewed By: Wine
Spectator 85pts Selections
from Rick's Cellar tasted w/ MIT couples fat Marie's gala milestone bday
dinner. |
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March 15, 2007 -
Chateau Haut Bages Averous Pauillac Bordeaux 1982 - RM 89 WS 89 -
Amazing life abounds in this 25 year old second label of Lynch Bages.
Classic Bordeaux earthy floral, blackcurrant, cherry, leather, cedar and a hint of anise on the
moderately tannin long finish. A birth year bottle of Ryan from the
cellar to commemorate his successful West Bucktown acquisition and
'launch' today.
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March 11, 2007 -
Flora Springs Napa Valley Trilogy meritage blend 2002 - RM 90 WS 92
- Smooth, soft after an hour of settling, medium bodied but somewhat
complex dark berry, black cherry, and a hint of essence of mocha on the
medium finish. Tasted w/ LJ and Ryan at Angeli's in Naperville. |
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March 10, 2007 -
Perrin & Fils Les Christins Vacqueyras 2005 - RM 90 - Intense
forward flavor of white pepper predominates with a layer of smoky tar,
cassis, and a hint of mocha on the finish. Managed by the Beaucastel
team. From the commune of Sarrians, South of the Dentelles de Montmirail,
between Carpentras and Vaison-la-Romaine in the Vaucluse. A blend of 75%
Grenache and 25% syrah. We passed through there during our
Rhone Wine Experience.
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March 8, 2007 - Lewis
Cellars Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 2004 - RM 93 WS 93 - Dark, full bodied, rich black currant, black
raspberry, and cedar on a long full firm tannin finish.
Tatiarra Heathcote Shiraz Pressings
2005 - RM 91 RP 95 - Medium bodied, dark purple, black raspberry, a hint of creme de cassis, white
chocolate, graphite, and spice.
Clarendon Hills Romas Vineyard Old Vines Grenache 2003 - RM 89 WS 94
- Dark medium bodied black raspberry, kirsch, a hint of mineral and
graphite. WS Review - "Wild
and more than a little gamy, an irreverent wine that flaunts its
animal, almost feral qualities, finally |
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them up with smooth, bright cherry
and berry fruit that emerges on the generous finish."
Poonawatta Estate Eden Valley Shiraz - RM 91 RP 95 - RP notes - "This
full-bodied, inky/purple-hued Shiraz exhibits notes of lead pencil
shavings, smoke, camphor, black currants, and blackberries." Tasted at
Vintij Wine Boutique
in Destin, FL. |
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March 7, 2007 - Husic Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 2003 - RM 90 - Dark, full bodied, dark berry, hint of currant,
tobacco, and charcoal, with a firm tannin finish.
Pinneau des Charentes,
Prunier, Cognac, France, Ugni Blanc & Folle Blanche
- NV.
RM 88
- An interesting, unique cognac infused dessert wine from aging in used
cognac barrels - exhibited all the characteristics of a fine
Dordogne or Sauterne, crisp, acidic, sweet, unctuous, a bit smoky - a
wonderful complement to the foie gras. A thoughtful suggestion from the
Seagar's crew. Tasted w/ KD, CM, and BJB at
DHS conference at
Seagar's Steak and Seafood at
the Hilton Sandestin Resort, Destin, FL (see review).
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March 4, 2007 -
Ch�teau
Vieux Fortin St Emilion Grand Cru 1995 - RM 89 RP 86 - Dark, earthy,
medium bodied, blackberry, charcoal and a slight hint of cassis, dark chocolate and spice on the long moderately tannin finish.
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3, 2007 - Haan "Prestige" Barossa Valley Shiraz 2003 - RM 92
- Dark, rich, medium bodied full fruit flavor of black raspberry,
loganberry, a hint of currant and bing cherry. Tasted with L, Ryan &
Michelle, and Pat at
Scylla Restaurant. |
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March 2, 2007 - Del Dotto Vineyards Cave Blend
2000 - RM 90 - Full fruit, flavor of dark cherry, anise, a hint of
licorice on the finish. |
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February, 28, 2007 - Kaesler Stonehorse Barossa
Valley Shiraz
2004 - RM 89 RP 93 - Dark rich full bodied, full flavor, chewy black
raspberry, ripe plum, a hint of licorice and pepper, are overtaken by mineral and graphite on the finish. |
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February 24, 2007
- Kilikanoon Barossa Valley
Testament Shiraz 2004 - RM 91 - RP 95 - $39 - Dark inky purple
color. Rich, intense forward blackberry, white pepper, mineral (Parker
calls it creosote), and what RP aplty describes as 'singed' leather,
with a long firm lasting finish. A bit harsh, needs time to soften. |
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February 21, 2007 - Marquis Phillips Barossa Valley
Shiraz '9' 2001 - WS92 RM92 $39 - That distinctive 'burnt sugar
creme brulee' taste from earlier tastings is turning a bit 'darker'
with age. 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". Not as
rich, chewy or polished as the Hazy Blur below. |
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February 14, 2007
- Hazy Blur South Australia Kangaroo Island Shiraz 2004 - RM 93 $39
- Dark, full bodied, thick chewy, pepper, black raspberry, black cherry,
ripe plum, hints of smoke, cedar and smooth tannins on a long finish.
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February 13, 2007
- Rosemount Balmoral McLaren Vale Shiraz 1997 - RM 90 - Dark, medium
bodied, smoky, earthy blackberry and anise. |
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February 11, 2007
- Baronne Ricasoli Casalferro Toscana 1988 - WS 92 RM 88 - Dark,
medium-full bodied earthy, smoky leathery black fruit, a hint of camphor
on a firm tannic finish. Blend of Sangiovese and Merlot. |
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February 10, 2007
-
Mollydooker
"Carnival of Love"
Shiraz McLaren Vale South Australia
2005 - RP 99 RM 95 - Robert Parker gushes
with praise for this wine -
99 points Robert Parker: "Amazingly,
the 2005 Carnival of Love ratchets up the level of quality. A
selection of the finest Shiraz barrels, it boasts an extraordinary
black/purple color, gorgeous notes of blackberry liqueur, camphor,
and smoke, and an enormous voluptuousness that would make even
Pamela Anderson jealous. Great purity, symmetry, and harmony as well
as remarkable balance for such a rich, intense wine, as it sat in
the glass espresso, vanillin, white chocolate, and additional black
fruits also emerged. It should drink well for a decade, although the
winemakers suggest it be consumed over the next four years. If you
are wondering what to serve with this beauty, Sarah and Sparky
Marquis recommend such fish as marlin, hammerhead, and great white
shark, white meats such as snake and crocodile, red meats such as
emu and kangaroo, and aged wallaby mild cheese. Yum!" (10/06) RM 94
- While it is a huge, thick intense wine, I found the fruit to be a
bit narrow and more subdued - lacking dimension I would expect in
such a highly rated wine. That said, it was delicious! As suggested,
it was a great compliment to the Ono, Ahi, and Mahi Mahi at
Roy's
in Chicago. Gala family dinner celebrating L's birthday - Ryan &
Michelle, Erin & Johnny, Alec with Erin & Kelly G., and Marlene U.
We also enjoyed |
| Liparita
Napa Valley Merlot 1995 - RM 88 - Medium
bodied, slightly earthy black cherry and a hint of black raspberry
and leather. From Magnum. Kracher #9 Chardonnay Trockenberren
Auslese 1998 - RM 93 Robert Parker 97 - Rich unctuous, colour of
caramel, weak tea or light maple syrup - smoky, subtle honey,
apricot and hint of orange. |
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February 4, 2007 - Snowden Vineyards Napa Valley Estate Cabernet
Sauvignon 1995 - RM 91 WS 93 - Earthy, leathery blackberry,
black cherry, a hint of currant, tea and herb with firm integrated
tannins. Girard Napa Valley Petit Syrah
2004 -
RM 90 WS 90 WE 92 Big thick chewy extracted forward
fruit of blackberry, ripe plum and black cherry. Very firm,
sophisticated but silky and finely integrated tannins. Not for the
feint of heart.
This is a blend of 90% Petite Sirah, 8% Zinfandel and 2% Carignane.
Great value at $20.
A Rick's Pick. |
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February 1, 2007
- Passing Clouds Reserve Bendingo Australia Shiraz 2003 - RM 91 RP
92 - Review from The Wine Advocate #161 10/31/05 "An outstanding Shiraz
from the cooler-climate region of Bendigo, this blockbuster 2003 was
aged for 12 months in American hogsheads. It boasts an opaque
blue/purple hue as well as a big, rich perfume of camphor interwoven
with blueberries and blackberries, opulent, full-bodied flavors, superb
depth, a chewy texture, and a long finish with plenty of heady glycerin
and alcohol (15.3%). It should drink well for 7-10 years." |
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January 27, 2007 - Tait Ballbuster Barossa Valley
2005 - RM 87 RP 92 - Parker calls this a 'fruit bomb'. Like the
Mettler below, the fruit gives way too much to distracting tones of
mineral and smoke to warrant such a high rating. This is a
blend of 80% Shiraz, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Merlot. It priced
right at $16. Barone Ricasoli Campo Ceni Toscano Sangiovese 2002
- RM 88 WS 86 - Firm smooth nicely integrated tannins, dark medium bodied
modest fruit of blackberry, black cherry, a hint of mineral and tobacco. Great value
wine and good complement to hearty Italian cuisine; tasted w/ Erin
and Johnny and L at Angelis Restaurant in Naperville.
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January 26, 2007 - Mettler Petite Sirah 2003 - RM
88 WE 90 - Deep dark purple color, full forward fruit of blackberry,
boysenberry, and spice that is offset by a hint of tar, cedar and mineral
that detracts from the fruit that falls off short. |
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January 21, 2007 - C. G. Di Arie Amador County
Syrah 2003 - RM 91 - Deep garnet purple colour, mouthfull of forward
fruit of black raspberry, cherry and dark plum with firm finely
integrated tannins on a long smooth finish of coffee and tobacco. A
Rick's Pick.
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January 18, 2007 - Chateau Pontet Canet Grand Cru
Classe Pauillac Bordeaux 2001 - RM 90 WS 90 RP 89-90 ST 91 - Medium
bodied, bright, earthy floral, and big but soft and finely integrated
tannins predominate over the black cherry fruit and hint of anise and
tobacco with a big long finish. Fabulous compliment to the seared tuna
at O'Leary's fine seafood restaurant in Eastport next to Annapolis.
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January 16, 2007 -
Passing Clouds Bendigo Reserve Shiraz 2003 - RM 88 |
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13, 2007 - David Arthur Napa Valley Meritaggio 1997 - RM 90 -
Girard Napa Valley Petit Syrah 2004 - RM 91 WS 90 WE 92 Big thick chewy extracted forward
fruit of blackberry, ripe plum and black cherry. Very firm,
sophisticated but silky and finely integrated tannins. Not for the
feint of heart.
This is a blend of 90% Petite Sirah, 8% Zinfandel and 2% Carignane.
Great value at $20.
A Rick's Pick.
Markham Napa Valley Petit Syrah 2005
- RM 88 - Newton Unfiltered Merlot 2001 - RM 87. |
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January 11, 2007
- Venge Napa Valley Oakville Penny Lane Family Reserve
Sangiovese 1997 $30 RM 86 WS 86 Medium bodied, predominant cedar
aroma and taste coupled with earthy leather and a slight grassiness that
detracts from the fruit of spicy
cherry and anise which fall off in a soft finish. |
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January 9, 2007 - Koonowla Clare Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 2002 - RM 90 RP 89 - $26 - Dark, thick rich, full bodied,
smoky currant, firm tannins, bark, mulberry and cedar and on the long
full finish. |
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January 6, 2007 - Del Dotto Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot 1998 - RM
89 - Full fruit filled, full bodied - blackberry, black cherry, a hint of
mocha, licorice and tar on the finish. |
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January 4, 2007 -
Rosemount Balmoral McLaren Vale Shiraz 1995 -
RM 90 $39 -
Dark full flavor, black berry, a hint of blueberry and
plum fruit, with spice, anise, smoke and tar on the long full finish.
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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
-
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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