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Wine - Notes and Comments
- (See
Key - See
Rating Wines)
New to wine?
See my
Getting Started - Wine Tasting
101!
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December 31, 2009
- Hazyblur 2004 medley - shiraz's from South Australia
Baroota, and
Mclaren Vale,
and
Kangaroo Island Cabernet; . Schramsberg 2006 Brut
North Coast sparkling wines -
Blanc de Blancs and
Blanc de
Noirs - Delightful and interesting
comparison between chardonnay and pinot noir based methode
champenoise sparkling wines. Blanc de Noir is 90% pinot
noir, 10% chardonnay added for 'length' on the palate.
New Years eve dual horizontal tasting accompaniment to
chocolate fondue and artisan cheeses hosted by Bill and Beth
C.
Dessilani Gattinara Piedmont Reserva 2000 - RM
87 - Nebbiolo varietal. Dark medium-full
bodied, dry. Initially closed, then opened to black berry,
black cherry, rose and violet floral notes with dusty anise
on a polished firm tannin finish. Drank with festive holiday
dinner at
Angeli's Restaurant
with L and Bill & Beth C. Sourced from C's cellar. |
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December 30, 2009
- Haan Barossa Valley Shiraz Prestige 2003-
RM 89 -
Spicy, earthy leathery super ripe black berry fruit,
menthol, hint of vanilla on a long spice finish.
Tasted at home w/ L and Pat. http://cellartracker.com/w?174207
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December 28, 2009 - Rudd Napa Valley Sauvignon
Blanc 2005 -
RM 89 - Tasted w/ L and Dr Pat - a great compliment
to the sherry infused seared scallops.
Kilikanoon Oracle
Shiraz 2004 -
RM 94, RP 97, WS 92 - Dark
inky purple, intense, rich, thick, full bodied,
forward fruit of blueberry, ripe plum and
blackberry, violet floral, and a hint of anise on
the finish.
Parker review -
'The dense purple-colored 2004 Shiraz Oracle
ratchets up the fruit and glycerin levels, yet
remains pure, elegant, and well-balanced.
Full-bodied, powerful, cleanly textured, long, and
heady..' Int'l Wine Cellar:93 -
'Explosive, wild aromas of blackberry liqueur,
cassis, licorice root and espresso. Boasts
impressive weight and power on the palate, the dark
berry flavors wonderfully sweet but also focused and
firmed by solid tannins. Spectator:92 -
'A vivid mouthful of violet-scented blueberry,
blackberry and plum...';
Tasted w/ L
and Pat at home. |
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December 25, 2009 -
Beaulieu Vineyard Tapestry Reserve 1997 -RM 90:
Subtle berry, dark cherry, slight earthy
leather, licorice on the moderate tannin finish.
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?192928 and 1998
- RM 91 points: Dark full bodied -
elegant fruit forward dark berry fruit predominates
with silky smooth tannins, anise, cedar and a long
oaky tannin finish.- #wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?20631. |
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December 24,
2009 - Marco Di Giulio Napa
Valley Mount Veeder Progeny Vineyard Cabernet
Sauvignon 2001 - #wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?137762
RM 92:
Dark inky color. Big floral nose. Mouthful of
black berry, cedar, spicy oak and finely integrated
polished tannins on a long flavorful finish. |
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December 21,
2009 -
Markham Napa Valley Petit Syrah 2001 -
RM 91 - Having bought more than a case of this I've
had a chance to try this wine numerous times and it
just keeps getting better! Dark inky purple color,
black berry, black cherry, currant and rose petals
with anise and nicely polished integrated silky
tannins on the finish. |
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December 19,
2009 - Chalone Vineyards County Pinot Noir 2005
- RM 87 - Aromas and flavors of tart black
cherries, black raspberry and cola with hints of
spicy clove and nutmeg. A hard to find great value
in a presentable pinot noir. Hahn Monterey
County Meritage Red Wine 2007 - RM 87 -
Black cherry, black berry, spice and cedar.
Remarkably sophisticated and complex yet nicely
polished for this price point. Another great value
respectable presentable red wine under $18. Two
great party wines. |
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December 17,
2009 - Paul Hobbs Russian River Valley
Chardonnay 2005 |
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December 16,
2009 -
Robert Craig Affinity Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
2004 - RM 89 -
Huge ripe berry fruit
aromatics. Dark, full body, ripe berry fruit,
accented by tobacco and hint of caramel with firm
full tannins on the long finish. |
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December 09,
2009 -
Robert Craig Affinity Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
- RM 88 - Earlier
review - Dark purple, black fruit and slight earthy
tobacco on the nose, black cherry and blackberry
fruit with tea and herbs on the moderate finish.
This wine is not quite as polished nor bearing as
much fruit as near vintages. The earthy leather is
taking over the fruit... need to drink up. Tasted at
home with E&J, R&M, & L at home.
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December 8, 2009 -
Domain Serene Evenstad Reserve Willamette Valley
Oregon Pinot Noir 2001 - RM90 -
Flavorful zesty spicy black cherry, smoke and soft
oak on a long tangy spicy lingering finish.
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December 05, 2009 -
Nickel & Nickel Napa Valley Branding Iron Vineyard
Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 -
RM91: Dark
purple, full bodied, polished complex layers of
berry, currant, spice and oak with a hint of cedar
on the long silky tannin finish. Tasted at home w/
L with selection of artisan cheeses.
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November 27, 2009
-
Del Dotto Cabernet Franc Napa Valley 1997
- RM 92 - Floral and spice aromatics, full bodied, full
silky texture, forward black berry and currant fruits
accented by spice, leather and hint of cedar on a long
smooth tannin finish.
Del Dotto Napa Valley Sangiovese Marsannay
2000 -
RM 88 Black cherry,
black berry, herbs, black olive and hint of leather and
spice on the moderate tannin finish. Unique one of a kind
special Marsannay French oak barrel aged selection, usually
reserved for
Del Dotto's famous Connoisseurs Series
Cabernet. Del Dotto was a
featured producer in our Napa Wine Experiences.
Tasted w/ L, Ryan & Michelle, Alec & Megan at
Angeli's Restaurant. |
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November 26, 2009
- Trio of Rieslings and Howell Mtn Zinfandels for
Thanksgiving feast. A horizontal of two 1990 zin's and a
vertical of two Lamborn Family zin's.
Lamborn Family Vineyards Napa Valley Howell Mountain
Zinfandel 1990
(RM86) and
Why 2k Zin
Zinfandel 2000 (RM89).
Ridge Vineyards Napa Valley Howell Mountain Zinfandel 1990.
California Howell
Mountain Zinfandel 1990 (RM88).
The 1990 Lamborn was predominantly earthy,
leathery, black bramble fruit accented with black pepper and
an edge of creosote. The
Ridge was a similar profile with more black
cherry and black olive.
The
Lamborn 2000 Why 2k zin exhibited more dark purple
color, black currant and black berry fruits accented with
black pepper. Lamborn was a featured
producer in our
Napa Howell Mountain Wine
Experience 2008.
Dr. Heidemanns-Bergweiler Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling
Spatlese 2006 - RM 88 -Great accompaniment to
turkey day fare. Nice balance of acidity and sweetness.
Bascand Waipara New Zealand Riesling 2008 - RM
86. |
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November 25, 2009
- Neiman Cellars Napa Valley Caldwell Vineyard Red Wine 2001 -
RM 91 - Full bodied, spice and fruit filled, black cherry, black
berry, hint of blue berry, leather and lingering cedar and a hint of
mint on a firm tannin finish.
http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=27471
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November 23, 2009
- Caravan Napa Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 - RM 89 -
Dark color, full bodied, firm structure, complex layers of ripe
blackberry, plum, and dark currant with subtle undercurrent of mocha,
coffee-bean, toast and earthy herbs with soft tannins on the finish.
Second wine of Darioush,
featured in our Napa Wine Experience and their gala Darioush wine
dinner.
http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=589032 - Tasted at home
with L.
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November 22, 2009 - Castello di Gabbiano
Alleanza Toscana IGT (Super Tuscan) 2006 -
RM 91: Dark color, full
bodied, nice tapestry of flavors - dark cherry, black berry, hints of
violets and vanilla nicely integrated silky tannins and soft oak. 70%
Sangiovese, 30% Merlot Blend. Alleanza is Italian for Alliance referring
to the joint venture between two notable winemakers Giancarlo Roman of
Castello di Gabbiano and Ed Sbragia from Beringer in Napa Valley to
produce this wine. Tasted w/ Chip & Kathy, Al & Kay, Pam, and L at
Angeli's Restaurant w/ Alec serving
just returned from IU.
http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=616376
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November 21, 2009 - Judd’s Hill Estate Napa
Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
- Fruit forward, concentrated full of black cherry, ripe plum, herb and
cassis, with hints of caramel and vanilla with long finish of smooth,
fine-grained tannins.
88%
Cabernet Sauvignon , 7% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc.
http://cellartracker.com/w?449031
Cliff Lede Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2008
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RM 90
Nicely balanced
acidity, subtle oak, citrus and remarkable peach fruit flavor that turns
to mango and hint of passion fruit and tangerine on the finish.
Less complexity and fruit than the
2007
vintage.
http://cellartracker.com/w?675698
Tasted w/ L, Terry and Lyle F at
Zealous Restaurant
in Chicago.
Graham's Vintage Port
1991 - RM 89 -
http://cellartracker.com/w?21593 - tasted at Terry 's
and Lyle's pied-a-terre. |
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November 18, 2009 - Chateau Corbin
Saint Emilion Bordeaux Grand Cru Classe 2006 - RM 88 -
http://cellartracker.com/w?360786 |
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November 17, 2009 - Di Lenardo
Pinot Grigio dal Vigneto Vigne Dai Vieris Venezia Giulia IGT 2007 -
RM 86: Medium bodied, balance of acid and sweetness,
slight citric and hint of honey fruit with slight mineral metallic edge.
Chef's selection accompaniment to Caprese Salad at Cucina Italia
in Arlington, VA.
http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=526812 |
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November
13, 2009 - Ashland Park Napa Valley Meritage 2005 - RM 87
- Dark inky purple color - black fruits, mulberry, accentuated by a hint
of cocoa and fragrant herb flavors with a texture of fine tannins. Now
available at Binny's DG (formerly Sam's) at half off closeout - Great
value for everyday drinking - along with the Spring Mountain Cab
(below). |
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November
12, 2009 - Ashland Park Napa Valley Spring Mountain District
Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 - RM 89 - Purplish ruby color -
fragrances of mulberry, black cherries and blackberry with a hint of
cloves; Rich and silky mouth feel with good structure and balance,
chalk-like tannins; and fine acidity on the finish. Better after being
open several hours.
http://cellartracker.com/w?581361 -
about 13 hours ago.
Tasted w/ L at
Angeli's Restaurant.
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November 10, 2009
- Orin Swift Napa Valley Red Wine Blends 2005 - Papillon (RM 93) and The
Prisoner (RM91) - Dark thick ripe spicy black berry fruits
predominate the Prisoner. ; - Viader Dare Cabernet Sauvignon and
Cabernet Franc 2005; The Papillon showed the most complexity,
structure and breadth and depth of flavors - dark, brooding, black
berry, currant, spice, oak, and finely integrated tannins. The Dare Cab
Sav was deep purple color, rnicely balanced black cherry, black berry
with a hint of currant and oak. The Cab Franc was similar with more
spice, ripe black cherry and a hint of cedar on the moderate tannin
finish.
http://cellartracker.com/w?490195 & 05 Orin Swift Prisoner - #wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?278411
2 days ago,
http://cellartracker.com/w?433227 & #wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?406342
2 days ago. Tasted at team dinner at Al and Sandy F's on Monument Hill with
Don Z, Ryan Z, Rob H and Mark G over Sandy's delicious lasagna. |
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November 9, 2009 - Chateau St Jean
Cinq Cepages Sonoma Valley Red Wine 2005 - RM 90; Fransiscan Magnificat
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2005; RM 91 - Deep garnet color
- aromas of dark cherry and black plum with a dark chocolate background
and notes of sage and black tea. Appealing and complex. Elegant,
well-structured mouthfeel, with cherries, rich chocolate, black pepper
and vibrant plum flavors filling the palate. Very supple, with fine
texture and firm structure, giving an immediately approachable richness.
The finish is a seamless continuation of fruit and cocoa-like tannins.92
Points. Tasted at 'The Tavern' Restaurant at The Broadmoor Resort in
Colorado Springs. |
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November 7, 2009
-
Interesting comparison horizontal tasting of three 1982 27 years old
cabernets - Ryan birthyear wines. The Fisher Vineyards Sonoma
Valley cabernet sauvignon '82 showed better than the
Chateau Citran Cru Bourgeois Haut Medoc Bordeaux 1982, -
http://cellartracker.com/w?129293 and the modest Rutherford
Hill Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon 1982 http://cellartracker.com/w?541988
which tasted remarkably similar in comparison tasting where this Sonoma
cab held more fruit and color. Interesting, it was the Fisher
Vineyards Sonoma Valley cabernet sauvignon '82
http://cellartracker.com/w?433563 that held on for the best
color and fruit - dark ink color and medium bodied, there remained
subdued fruits of black berry and black cherry with tone of cedar on a
modest tannin finish. Showing well and best in tasting was the young and
vibrant Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Oakville cabernet sauvignon
2004
http://cellartracker.com/w?224276 - RM 92 - Dark ink color -
full body and full forward fruit - blackberry, black currant and cassis
give way to a subtle but lingering slightly sweet caramel, vanilla with
hint of mocha on a moderate tannin oak finish. Also tasted Kim
Crawford Marlborough Dry Riesling 2007 and Mumm's Napa Valley Cuvee
'M' NV sparkling wine. Gala (Ryan) birthday dinner of beef
tenderloin and lobster tail at Ryan & Michelle's with Evelyn & Keith,
Erin & Johnnie & L. |
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November 5, 2009 - Rosemount
Estates Balmoral McLaren Vale Shiraz 1992 -
RM 90:
Dark, medium-full bodied, big full fruit
flavors - black cherry, blackberry, hint of spice and anise, slight
leather and earthiness revealing its age on a moderate tannin finish.
Tasted w/ L
and Marlene at
Angeli's Restaurant.
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?20416
1 day ago |
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October 31, 2009
- Cliff Lede Vineyards Napa Valley Sauvignon
Blanc 2007 - RM 90 -
Nicely balanced
acidity, subtle oak, citrus and remarkable
peach fruit flavor that turns to mango and
hint of passion fruit and tangerine on the
finish. Fabulous complement to lobster with
a dash of lemon butter. starter. First
tasted at the winery - got some at home - a
staple white for the cellar. Zinfandel
tasting flight -
Seghesio Sonoma County
Family Vineyard Zinfandel 2007; Robert Craig
Howell
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Mountain Black Sears Vineyard Zinfandel 2006
- RM 90 -
First tasted this wine
at the winery during
Napa Howell Mountain
Wine Experience 2008 at Robert Craig
Howell Mountain
Winery.
Medium bodied, fruit
filled approachable easy drinking zin - black
berry, bramble, subtle sweet currant and
mocha with a hint of anise and creosote.
Howell Mountain Vineyard Black Sears
Vineyard Howell Mountain Zinfandel 1999; RM
89 -
Tasted this sister wine at a
gala dinner at
Taiwanese Twin Oaks Estates
mansion Consulate in
WDC only to learn later this is sourced from
a vineyard near Robert Craig's Howell
Mountain property.
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October 23, 2009
- Flinders Run,
Southern Flinders Ranges, Baroota,
Australia, Shiraz
2005 -
RM
94 -
Dark inky colour. Full bodied, elegant
rich thick chewy symphony of flavors of sweet currant, ripe plum, red
raspberry, blueberry, a hint of pepper, vanilla, and spice, and a
lingering essence of creme brulee' burnt sugar and cedar on the soft
finish. One of our favorite wines. Tasted w/ L at home with fruit
and fabulous raspberry infused cheese and crackers. |
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October 21, 2009 -
Frederic Trouillet Macon-Solutre
2007 - RM 86
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?615874
2 days ago; Joseph Carr Napa Valley Merlot 2006
-RM 86 #wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?510311; Blandy Madeira Malmsey 10
Years N.V. - RM 88 #wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?611992; Sommelier's
selection to three course wine pairing at
Bastille Restaurant in Alexandria, VA. |
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October 15, 2009 - Groth Oakville
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 - RM 91;
Full forward fruit filled, lush, tasty wine - loads of ripe berry, plum,
raspberry and currant flavors. #wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?328095. Beringer Knights
Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 - RM 88; Tasted
w/ 'Gunny' Mark G and Tech Fellow Dr. David C at the Strip Club (cook
your own steaks) in gaslight San Diego. |
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October 13, 2009 -
Comte Louis de Clermont-Tonnerre Cotes du Rhone
Tres Vieilles Vignes
2007 - RM 86; Good value easy drinking dinner wine - medium
bodied, black cherry and black fruits, anise, hint of tar and floral on
a moderate finish. #wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?693479 Tasted @ Cafe Tatti in McLean. |
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October 12, 2009 - Venge Napa
Valley Family Reserve Sangiovese 1997 - RM 87:
Earthy, leather, hint of cedar with subdued black
cherry and black berry fruits on the moderate finish. Tasted w/ L at
Angeli's Restaurant. |
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October 9, 2009
- Gala comparison tasting of recent and new
release Napa cabernets and California Pinots
and fabulous beef tenderloin dinner. Joseph
Phelps Backus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
2004, Fantesca Winery & Estate Spring
Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Chateau St
Jean Cinq Cepages 2005 Sonoma Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon blend, Sea Smoke TEN
Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2006, Ladera
Pillow Road Vineyard, Sonoma Russian River
Valley Pinot Noir 2006, Alois Kracher
Welschriesling TBA #6 Zwischen den Seen
1998. Tasted w/ L, Eric & Cathy and
Dr Dan at his place following memorial
of DJA. |
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October 7, 2009 -
Duckhorn Vineyards Decoy Napa Valley Red Wine 2007 - RM
87 - #wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?662657 at Mortons in Crystal City WDC ...
about 18 hours ago |
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October 1, 2009 -
Neiman Napa Valley Caldwell Vineyard Red
Wine 1998: RM 89 - Huge floral fragrance and rose petal tastes
predominates from start to finish, accented by leather and a hint of
charcoal, black cherry, black berry, cedar, and tar on a long full
tannin finish. Tasted w/ L at
at Angeli's Restaurant.
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September 25, 2009 - Moët &
Chandon Imperial Champaign NV; Tasted
w/ L, Eric, Kathy & Elyse in Indy.
11:28
AM Sep 27th from
CellarTracker
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September 24, 2009 - Chappellet Vineyards Signature Merlot Napa Valley 2005;
Tasted at Raymond's Restaurant in Pasadena. |
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September 23, 2009 - Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot 2006;
Shafer Napa Valley Merlot 2006; Northstar Columbia Valley Merlot 2005;
Tasted at Spaghetini's Restaurant in Seal Beach.
& 06 Shafer Merlot -
4:46
PM Sep 24th from
CellarTracker
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October 22,
2009 - Robert Craig Cabernet Sauvignon Affinity 2000 -
5:42
PM Sep 22nd from
CellarTracker.
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September 16, 2009 - Chappellet Vineyards Signature Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 2006;
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September 13, 2009 - Chateau St Jean Winery visit & tasting -
Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages 2005; Chateau St Jean Reserve Cabernet
Sauvignon 2004; More to come. |
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September 12, 2009 - Freemark Abbey Napa Valley Estate Cabernet
Sauvignon 1974 & 1978. Gala vintage mini vertical tasting of
two vintages commemorating McNees and Connolly wedding anniversary
years. Tasted at Wine Spectator CIA - Culinary Institute of America -
Greystoke Mansion in St Helena, Napa Valley. |
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September 12, 2009 - Freemark Abbey Winery visit tasting flight.
Freemark Abbey Bosche Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2004; Freemark Abbey
Sycamore Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 & 1995; Freemark Abbey
'Bootleg' Blend Cabernet Sauvignon 2006; We also
purchased from the library Freemark Abbey
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1974 and 1978
which were consumed at gala CIA dinner
(above). |
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September 12, 2009 - Robert Craig Harvest Party on Howell Mountain
- Napa Valley - Selections from Robert Craig Vineyards and
Winery - Horizontal tasting of 2006
Robert Craig cabernet sauvignon - Robert Craig Affinity 2006, Robert Craig Howell Mountain
2006 & 2002, Robert Craig Mt Veeder 2006, Robert Craig Spring Mtn
Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 from barrel. More to come. |
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September 11, 2009 - Fantesca Winery & Estate Spring Mountain
Cabernet Sauvignon 2005; Tasted at Tra Vigne Restaurant, St
Helena. |
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September 11, 2009 - Audelssa Sonoma Mountain Terraces Cabernet Sauvignon
2002 - Tasted at L' Auberge du Soleil in Napa. |
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September 11, 2009 -
Fantesca Winery & Estate visit, tasting
flight; Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
(barrel
tasting) and 2006; Fantesca Estate and Winery King Richard Pinot
Noir 2006 (pre-release bottle tasting); Fantesca Russian River Valley
Sonoma Chardonnay 2007. More to come.
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September 11, 2009 -
Cliff Lede Vineyard & Winery visit - private
tasting; 2006 cabernet sauvignon horizontal flight - Cliff Lede 'Poetry' Cabernet Sauvignon 2005; Cliff
Lede 'Moon Symphony' Vineyard Designated Cabernet Sauvignon
2006; Cliff Lede Napa Valley Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon
2006; Cliff Lede Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2008; More to come;
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September 10, 2009 - Landmark Sonoma Valley Grand Detour Pinot Noir 2007;
Tasted at Meritage Cafe in Sonoma.
Audelssa Sonoma Mountain Terraces Cabernet Sauvignon 2002; |
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September 10, 2009 - Charles Creek Alexander Valley Soda Rock
Vineyard Malbec 2007 - Tasted at Carneros Cafe & Wine Bar at
The Lodge at Sonoma. |
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September 4, 2009 - Silver Oak
Alexander Valley 1990 and 2004 - Contrast of vintages, young
and old. The 1990 was tight, dark, and exhibited black cherry, black
berry, slight astringency, leather and cedar on the oaky tannin finish.
(RM89) The 04 was much lighter, simpler with accents of sweet red
currant and hint of chocolate with sweet oak on the finish (RM88).
Tasted w/ L, Bob and Gloria treating us to 35th celebration at Morton's
in Naperville.
http://cellartracker.com/w?10085.
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September 3, 2009 - Darioush
Signature Merlot 1999 - RM 90; Nice pleasant drinking dinner
wine - dark garnet color, floral fragrance, red berry, dark cherry,
subtle currant and hint of cola, medium full body - velvety finish with
moderate tannins.
http://cellartracker.com/w?127
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September 2, 2009
- Chateau Clos du Marquis 1999 - RM 88 - Medium bodied,
moderate firm tannins, black berry and black cherry, leather, hint of
tea and cigar box. Second wine of favorite St Julien Chateau Leoville
Las Cases. Tasted from 375 at home w/ steak.
http://cellartracker.com/w?11896
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August 28, 2009
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Venge Napa
Valley Oakville Penny Lane Family Reserve Sangiovese 1997 -
RM 88; Hint of
cedar aroma and taste gives way to plum and spicy cherry with a
touch of anise.
http://cellartracker.com/w?50439.
Kathryn Hall
Sacrashe Vineyard Rutherford
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1998 -
RM 89 - Long lingering
bouquet and flavors of floral and eucalyptus give way to earthy
leather with subtle black cherry on a long firm tannin finish.
http://cellartracker.com/w?610689. Tasted w/ L, Mark D
and Kathy at Angeli's Restaurant. |
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August 24, 2009 - York Creek 'MXB'
Spring Mountain Red Wine 2005 - RM 88 - Dark purple, ripe
raisiny black berry, hints of mineral, graphite and black pepper on a
firm tannin finish. Tasted w/ L at Pat & Rodgers. -
http://cellartracker.com/w?479888 |
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August 23, 2009 - Flora
Springs Trilogy Napa Valley Red Blend - RM 88: Slightly rust
colored dark purple. Medium bodied. Earthy, leathery, black berry, spicy
black cherry, hint of eucalyptus on the lingering spice and tannin
finish. Tasted on the sunny deck under blue skies and billowy clouds,
w/ Ahi Tuna and Tenderloin steaks, roasted potato's, spinach and fruit
salad, fresh berries, and fresh baked sour dough bread infused with
garlic. Tasted w/ L, Alec & Wes, Pat & Rodger, and 'Flora' friend
Martha. |
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August 19, 2009 - Pahlmeyer Jayson Napa Valley Red Wine 2003 -
RM 92; Twomey Napa Valley Merlot 2004; Duckhorn Napa
Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2005; Merryvale Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
2005; Tasted at RG BOD Dinner at
Champaign CC. |
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August 17, 2009 - Fantesca Estate
and Winery Spring Mountain District Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
- RM 93 - Wow! This is good juice. Mouthful of sweet red currant, spicy
cinnamon, black cherry, black berry, cedar and lively acid with a long
sweet spicy oak finish held together by finely integrated firm tannins.
Over a eleven hundred different wines in the cellar and I chose this one
for our intimate anniversary dinner at home - caprese salad, tenderloin,
sweet potato, baked potato, chocolate souffle with fresh honey laced
strawberries. Yum. Oo-la-lah! We're visiting Duane and Angela and co at the winery
in two weeks to taste their 2008 pre-release in the barrel. Can't wait!
Great job with the 05! |
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August 15, 2009 - Keenan Napa Valley Spring
Mountain Merlot 1986 - RM 86 - Slightly astringent as the black
cherry fruit is falling off with age, accented by earthy leather and
cigar box. Tasted w/ L at Angeli's Restaurant. |
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August 14, 2009 - David Arthur Napa
Valley Meritaggio 2003 - RM 93 - Dark garnet color -
full bodied - rich, thick mouthful of raspberry, currant, ripe plum,
black berry and spice. Delicious. A “super Tuscan” style blend of: 68%
Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petite Verdot,
3% Merlot.
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?...
Twitter Post from
CellarTracker
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August 13, 2009 - Cliff Lede Napa Valley
Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 - RM 91: Dark garnet
colour, big full bodied, flavors of black berry, black cherry, mocha,
hints of cigar box & earthy mushroom with spicy nutmeg & cinnamon on a
firm fine grained tannin finish. Tasted w. L and Amb SMM at
NoMi Restaurant in Chicago. Blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13%
Merlot, 1% Malbec, 1% Petit Verdot - Alcohol: 14.8%.
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?... -
Posted on Twitter |
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August 12, 2009 - Forman Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon 1990 - RM 88. Tasted w/ L, Alec and Megan at Angeli's Restaurant.
6:35 PM Aug 12th from
CellarTracker
http://cellartracker.com/w?... |
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August 9, 2009
- Trefethen Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet
Sauvignon 1997; Beaulieu Vineyards Tapestry
Reserve 1996; Chateau Pique Caillou Pessac
Leognan Graves Bordeaux 2006; Chateau Calon
Segur St Estephe Bordeaux 1995; Branson
Coach House Barossa Valley Single Vineyard
Greenock Block Estate Shiraz 2002 -
Gala wine
tasting/dinner celebrating engagement of
Will and Kate at Connelly's - W/ L, Bill &
Bev, Will & Kate, Drew, Matt, and friends.
The Trefethen was especially memorable.
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August 8, 2009 - Mer Soleil (Caymus)
Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay 2006: WE 93, RM 90; Winemaker
notes - "Soft gold color. Richly perfumed nose,
with light notes of honeysuckle, truffle and buttery oak. Full, layered
flavors of tropical fruit are balanced by a bright acidity of sweet
citrus, and linger though the long, creamy finish."
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?...7:33
AM Aug 9th from
CellarTracker
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July 30, 2009 - Groth 2005 Napa Valley
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon (RM 91) vs. Mt Veeder 2005
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (RM89); Tasted
at Strip Club Steakhouse in gaslight district San Diego w/ BC MDA team.
Groth came out aggressive but settled down - still boasting pronounced
dark, firm, forward fruit black berry, black cherry, spicy and oaky
currant fruits. The Mt Veeder was overshadowed with its more singularly
dimensional subtle but firm and full bodied mountain fruits - black
berry accented by mocha.
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July 29, 2009 - Plumpjack Syrah 2007
- RM 89; Elyse Petit Sirah 2006 - RM 88 - The
Plumpjack was more forward and vibrant overshadowing the more subdued
Elyse which was more subtle than the 04 tasted Sunday (see below).
Tasted @ Spaghetini Restaurant in Seal Beach w/ BC MDA team.
10:38 PM Jul 29th from
mobile web
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July 26, 2009 - Elyse Petite Sirah
Rutherford,
Napa Valley 2004 - RM 91 -
Dark inky purple color - thick rich full bodied - dense with huge 'legs'
that stain the glass - flavorful black berry, black raspberry, hints of
ripe plum with subtle oak and mocha on a full long finish. Tasted on the
deck w/ L, Erin & Johnny, Eric, Cathy and Elise - closest I have to her
'namesake' wine. |
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July 24, 2009 - Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon
Two Mountains 2000 from 2003 Napa Premiere Lot 67 -
RM 88 - Dark, medium bodied, black cherry, black berry, hint of
currant, earth and tea on the finely integrated smooth tannin finish. |
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July 23, 2009
-
Jul 23rd Tweet -
Robert Craig Cabernet Sauvignon Affinity 1998 -
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?... RM 90 ; Beringer
Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Knights Valley
2004 -
RM 89 - Tasted w/ L, Jan & Bill, Ryan & Michelle, Evelyn &
Keith, and cousins, w/ French exchange visitors Phillip & Pierre at Erin
& Johnny's. |
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July 22, 2009 -
Fess Parker Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County 2007 - RM 90 -
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?... Spicy clove, hint of cinnamon, earthy
black cherry, hint of white pepper on the finish.; Cat Amongst
the Pigeons Shiraz Nine Lives 2007 - RM 90 RP91 - Dark, thick, full
bodied, blueberry, black cherry, spicy vanilla, hint of earthy white
pepper on the full firm finish.
Tasted at Nage Bistro, Scott Circle, Washington DC. |
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July 21, 2009 - Erath
Pinot Noir 2007 - RM 88; Rodney Strong Reserve Cabernet
Sauvignon Sonoma County 2005 - RM 90 WE 91, WS 90 ;Tasted at McCormick & Schmick in Crystal
City. |
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July 20, 2009 -
Ramey Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 2005 - RM 88 -
Tasted @ Herrington Inn Geneva.
5:02 PM Jul 20th from
mobile web. |
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July 17, 2009 -
Tasted mini vertical Nova Wines Marilyn Merlot 05, 06, 07 at
bar-b-que - 06 was concensus favorite..
http://bit.ly/QOpIT
6:45 PM Jul 17th from web.
Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe
Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau 2003 -
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?...6:38
PM Jul 17th from
CellarTracker - Tasted @ Mark G's in Aurora, CO. |
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July 14, 2009 -
Domaine la Roubine Vacqueyras 2006 -
#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?... - Tasted w/ JK at Idylwood Grill in
Falls Church ...4:44
PM Jul 14th from
CellarTracker |
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July 11, 2009 - Lail J Daniel Cuvee
Napa Valley 1999 - RM 91, WE 95, WS 93, RP 92 - Firm nicely integrated tannins
throughout - dark garnet color, black berry, black raspberry form the
core with hints of black currant, oak and anise on the finish. This is a
blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot. From the three
acre Mole Hill Vineyard at 1600 feet on Howell Mtn with a western
exposure. Tasted w/ L and Philippe at
Angeli's Restaurant
with Alec serving.
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#wine
http://cellartracker.com/w?... - .9:42
AM Jul 12th from
CellarTracker.
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July 10, 2009 - Spring Valley Vineyard
Washington State Walla Walla Uriah Red 2005 - WS 91 - RM 90 -
Definitely needs some time - decant and let breathe. A bit harsh up
front with cedar and tar overpowering black currant and black berry fruits - turns to
vanilla with creme brulee burnt sugar on the long firm tannin filled finish. 59% Merlot, 36% Cabernet
Franc, 5% Petit Verdot. |
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July 7, 2009 - La Roubine Vacqueyas
Rhone 2006 - RM 90 - Dark, firm tannins throughout - black
cherry, black berry, mineral and hint of creosote with firm tannin
finish. Tasted w/ JK at Idylwild Grill in Falls Church. |
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July 6, 2009 - Hazyblur
South
Australia Baroota Shiraz 2002
- RM 90 - Full bodied, super ripe plum, blackberry and currants with
mocha, vanilla, caramel and hint of cedar and licorice on the full firm
lingering finish. |
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July 3, 2009 - Robert Craig Affinity
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2000; RM 88 - Dark purple, black
fruit and slight earthy tobacco on the nose, black cherry and blackberry
fruit with tea and herbs on the moderate finish. Slightly tart. This
wine is not quite as polished nor bearing as much fruit as near
vintages. Tasted w/ L, Mark and Jane at
Angeli's Restaurant
with Alec serving.
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July 1, 2009
- Duckhorn Napa Valley Merlot 2005; Caymus Napa Valley Estate cabernet
sauvignon 2006 - RM 93; Rombauer Napa Merlot 2005 -
Tasted at Azul Restaurant at JW Marriott at Ko Olina with goat
cheese & roasted beet salad, foie gras starter and beef tenderloin
dinner. |
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June 30,
2009 - Orin Swift 'The Prisoner' 2006-
RM 90 WS 93 - The 2005 Prisoner was listed as
#17 in the Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2007 and awarded 93
points! This is a blend of 51% zinfandel, 23% cabernet sauvignon,
12% syrah, 6% charbono, 6% petite sirah, and 2% grenache. Considered
perhaps the best Prisoner that winemaker David Phinney has produced
to date. Fruit is sourced from top vineyard sites, including
Tofanelli and Duarte Vineyards, the blend shows the best of all the
varietals: the concentration of cab, the lush berry flavors of zin,
the dark black fruit of syrah and the structure and intensity of
petite sirah, combined in a wine that is decadent
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and complex.; Mollydooker Violinist Verdellho 2008;
Ken Brown Santa Barbara Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2006 - RM
89;
Tasted w/ DZ, MG, DC, RH, TS - BC MDA team at Roy's Hawaiian fusion cuisine restaurant on Waikiki, Honolulu.
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June 28, 2009 - Conn Creek Limited Release Napa Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 2005 - RM 87 - Slightly green, earthy black cherry,
red currant, cedar, black tea, hint of vanilla on the finish. Tasted w/
Ken A and Rob H at Roy's Waikiki in Honolulu. |
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June 27, 2009 - Col Solare Red
Mountain Columbia River Red Wine 2003 |
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June 25, 2009 - Chateau Beaucastel
Chateauneuf-du-pape 1997
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June 23, 2009
- Fantesca Spring Mountain Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
2005 - RM 92 - Deep garnet
colour. Smooth, polished currant and black cherry fruits accented by
subtle mildly sweet spice, oak and hint of that Mayacamas Mountain
terroir cedar. From Rick's cellar. Wow - now in oversize almost
magnum heavy bottle! Comparison tasted against
Fisher Coach Insignia Sonoma Valley red blend
2003 which is along the same
mountain range albeit further north aand 'over the hill to the west
facing Sonoma face. RM 90 - Dark purple colour - subdued dark fruits
and slight dusty tones give way to a slight camphor note on the full
firm finish. Tasted w/ Mark G and Shannon R at
Morton's Steak House
in Naperville. |
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June 22, 2009
- Viader 'V' Napa Valley red blend 2002 - RM 91 -
Dark, firm black fruits, fine soft tannins.
Blend of Petit Verdot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc.
Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet
Sauvignon 1991 - RM 91 -
Earthy blackberry and black cherry accentuated by sweet spicy oak.
Tasted at home w/ L, Mark G and Shannon with beef tenderloin,
roasted red potatoes, asparagus and beefsteak tomatoes.
Kracher Nouvelle Vague Chardonnay
Trocken Bereen Auslese (TBA) #9 1998
- RM 92. Essence of apricot nectar served with fruit and cheese
plate for desert. |
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June 21, 2009
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Flinders Run,
Southern Flinders Ranges,
Baroota, Australia, Shiraz
2005 -
RM
94 -
Dark inky colour. Full bodied,
elegant rich thick chewy symphony of flavors of sweet currant, ripe
plum, red raspberry, blueberry, a hint of pepper, vanilla, and
spice, and a lingering essence of creme brulee' burnt sugar and
cedar on the soft finish. One of our favorite wines -
tasted from our cellars, w/ L
and Tim & Marcia at
Angeli's Restaurant
with Alec serving.
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Dr. Heidemanns-Bergweiler Bernkasteler Badstube
Riesling Spätlese 2006 - RM 90 - Thick and
sweet enough to serve as an apres dessert wine.
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June 20, 2009 - Del Dotto Napa Valley
Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon 1997 - RM 92 points: Currant and berry
fruit flavors give way to integrated oak and hint of cedar. Moderately
firm but refined tannins. More structure and more flavorful than the
1998 which we've been drinking. The 98 was drinking better earlier and
the 97 is now coming of age. Even more fruit than last tasting. Tasted from our cellars, w/ L
and Erin at
Angeli's Restaurant
with Alec serving.
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June 17, 2009 -
Château Pesquié Côtes du Ventoux Southern Rhone Terrasses 2006 -
RM 88 -
Ripe black fruit black raspberry,
plum, with a hint of earthiness. Soft, medium-full body, and a long
finish. Great value easy drinking every day wine.
Tasted w/ Don Z and Ryan Z
with dinner at Mark G's in Aurora - Semper Fi!
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June 16, 2009 - Rodney Strong Sonoma
County Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2005 - Tasted at Ted's
Montana Grill in Aurora w/ Don Z. |
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June 14, 2009 - Groom Sauvignon Blanc
2007; RM 88 - Essence of mango fruit and hint of crispy citrus.
Chateau St Michelle Merlot 2006; King Estate Pinot Gris
2007 - RM 88 Essence of peach with hint of pear and
almond. Tasted w/ L at Mercury Grill
in Dallas - great accompaniments to tuna tartar, pate and flowerless
chocolate cake & fruit plate. Enjoying UA flight delay at DFW.
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June 13, 2009 - Willakenzie
Estate, Estate Cuvee Pinot Noir 2007; Tasted w/ L at Lazare in West Village,
Uptown, Dallas. |
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June 12, 2009 -
Gundlach Bundschu Rheinfarm Vineyard Sonoma Merlot 2006 - RM 90
- Complex earthy black cherry, blackberry with hint of camphor, turning
to black tea, blackberry, tobacco and mocha on the finish. Tasted at Cru
Wine Bar in Plano, Legacy Center w/ L. |
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June 11, 2009 - Marquis Philips 9
Mclaren Vale Shiraz 2006 - RM 89 - WA 92-95 - Dark ink color.
Full bodied, rich, thick - ultra-ripe raisiny black fruits predominate
accented by pain grille (dark toast) smoky mocha, with hints of burnt
sugar, mocha and vanilla on the finish. Linda (and Wine Advocate) loves
this style - its a bit much for me. Tasted from our cellars, w/ L, at
Angeli's Restaurant
with Alec serving.
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June 10, 2009 - Elan Vineyards Atlas
Peak Merlot 1995 - RM 90 - Surprisingly lots of life in this 14
year old! Mouthful of bright leathery spicy black fruits, cedar and
hints of eucalyptus and moderate tannic creosote on the long full
lingering spice filled finish. |
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June 06, 2009 - Chateau La Louviere Grand
Vin Pessac Leognan Graves Bordeaux 1994
- RM 88 - Modest nose. Dark, medium bodied, firm blackberry, black
currant fruits, earthy leather and a hint of cedar and smoke. More
pronounced fruit than recent tasting . Tasted from
375 ml.
Tasted w/ Alec & Megan at Angelis - L in Indy. |
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June 5, 2009 -
Ritchie
Creek Napa Valley Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 1999 - RM
88 - Medium bodied - leathery black cherry, black berry, hint of cedar,
eucalyptus, spice and tobacco on the modest tannin finish. Tasted w/ L
and Mark D at
Angeli's Restaurant
with Alec serving. |
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June 1, 2009 - Del Dotto Napa Valley Giovanni's Tuscan Reserve 1999 -
RM 88 - Medium bodied, blackberry, black cherry
fruit, leathery cedar and black tea on the moderate tannin finish. Blend
of sangiovese, cabernet, merlot and petit verdot. Drank from magnum from
the cellar - at Morton's Naperville with RG and AC-C
and BC team. ; Goldeneye Pinot Noir 2005. |
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