Spesialslippet USA

USA i endring, spesialslippet i oktober

Det skjer ting ute i verden med vinstilen om dagen. For ett år siden omtrent var jeg i Tyskland for å smake terroirviner fra Argentina, jeg skjønner hvor de vil men de hadde ikke nådd helt frem enda. En større rekke australsk vin for noen uker siden gav mange overraskelser, og nå en rekke på 49 amerikanere, og igjen ser man hvor det bærer. Det gjelder ikke bare utenfor Europa, også her bærer det mot mindre (over)modning, lavere alkohol, mer syre og friskhet. Jeg har faktisk hørt mer enn en vinprodusent si til meg at «-Dere nordmenn har hatt rett hele veien, vi trodde dere var litt rare for ti år siden, men mindre fat, lavere alkohol og mer friskhet gir bedre og mer drikkbare viner». 

Vi nordmenn har etterspurt dette hele veien faktisk. Det vil si de kvalitetsbevisste av oss, for folk flest liker sødme og alkohol på masseprodusert vin. Forskjellen er at også fine wine drikkere ute i verden har likt dette. Det som fascinerer meg er å se hvor raskt man skifter stil og min hypotese om at høy modning alene ikke er nok for å lage god vin bekreftes når Copain med tidligere vinmaker Wells Guthrie som blant annet gikk i lære hos Helen Thurleys som lager mild sagt overdrevne viner, og han klarer å snu i stilart nærmest fra en årgang til den neste. Nå har Copain laget gode viner noen år alt, jeg husker en svært god flaske smakt i New York i 2009, men dette slippets viner er for meg de mest klokkeklare jeg har sett herfra, jeg smakte dog ikke de som ble sluppet i fjor. 

Det er flere høydepunkter underveis her, chardonnayene mangler litt adresse for de som er vant med burgund, men det er vellagede viner hvor det ikke oversvømmes av fat, smør og popkorn, pinotene går fra å være rike og sødmefulle men aldri så mye at det bikker over slik enkelte kunne gjøre for bare få årganger siden, selv om disse fortsatt utvilsomt finnes, er de i svært liten grad med her. På den andre siden har vi fruktige, elegante og parfymerte pinoter. Scherrer drar det lengst mot ekstraksjon men det lander fortsatt på riktig side. Anthil og Knez sammen med Copain har noen av de for meg mest elegante. Prisene har jeg litt vanskelig for å klage på selv om spesialutvalget gjør de unødvendig dyre. Men sett opp mot en del burgundpriser begynner dette å bli farlig gode alternativer, om man ser etter ren nytelse av god pinot, og ikke skal prøve å sammenligne. 

Syrah og zinfandel leverer her ett for meg nytt syn på begge druene etter hva jeg har smakt før. Jeg får ikke gåsehud av zinfandel noen gang, den er for søt selv ved lave alkoholnivåer, men syrah har her fått frem viner det virkelig hadde vært morsomt å kaste inn i en Nord Rhône flight. Sean Thackrey er unntaket med sin petite syrah, denne er så annerledes i sitt utrykk og rikhet, men den klarer faktisk å bære 15,1% alkohol. Kanskje fordi det foregår så mye i denne vinen at man mister fokus. Skulle gjerne ha smakt hele rekken da min erfaring med dette unikumet av en produsent er syltynt. Her er vinmakingsfat strødd utover hele eiendommen hans i Sonoma County, og det eksperimenteres med det aller meste. Se episode 7 er det vel av Oz & James California serie, så får du se en annerledes produsent, og vinene, i alle fall de to jeg har smakt så langt, er spennende. Og annerledes. 

Cabernet sauvignon glimrer med sitt fravær med ett hederlig unntak, Dunn dukker opp i all sin glans. Jeg har vært fan siden første flaske ble smakt i USA i 2008 og jeg har kastet meg over enhver sjanse til å smake Dunn siden. Men her er det uventet mye struktur og syre for Napa Valley og vinene tåler lett 30 år i nær sagt alle årganger når vi snakker om Howell Mountain. Vanlig Napa cab tåler nok også 25 år. Hvorfor dukker det ikke opp mer? Jo, fordi det er umulig å selge i Norge er beskjeden. Men det kommer fra de samme som ikke klarer å selge hvit Bordeaux også, selv om stadig flere etterspør dette, og det dukker opp stadig oftere i de private smakingene jeg er med på, og ofte er flasken kjøpt i utlandet, nettopp fordi det ikke er å oppdrive her hjemme. Men jeg savner Heitz, deres viner er strålende i min bok og prisene pleier ikke å være så langt unna Dunn der jeg handler i USA i alle fall. Men det er kanskje ingen norsk importør for Heitz?

Vinene fra Cristom er forsinket og kommer en uke etter slippet.

Bedrock Shebang II White Cuvee
Kr 228,90
Lyst gullfarget. Lett røkt tone, vanilje og noe krydder på duft. Frisk syre, lett kremet i munn, sitrus, fersken, syrlig og relativt frisk, pen lengde. 87

2013 Cristom Estate Viognier
Kr 298,90
Lyst strågul farge. Epler, sitrus, lett tropisk og noe mineralsk duft. Medium syre, epler, lime og sitroner, relativt detaljert, fruktig, avslutter med ferskentoner og gul frukt, pen lengde. 89

2011 Mount Eden Wolff Vineyards Chardonnay
Kr 260,60
Sitrongul farge. Lett popcorn tone, noe flint og lett mineralsk under noe smør og epler. Frisk syre, sitrus, gule epler, vanilje og smør, kremet men relativt frisk finish, nesten mot leken. Ørlite gran varm finish. 89

2011 Knez Demuth Vineyard Chardonnay
Kr 329,-
Lyst sitrongul farge. Epler, lett vokspreg, grillede sitroner og noe mineralsk duft. Frisk syre, lett kremet, fruktig, sitrus, gule og grønne epler, lett flinttone, vaniljetone, elegant vin. Kun 12,9 alk. 90

2011 Scherrer Helfer Vineyards Chardonnay
Kr 359,-
Kun 90 kasser laget. 60 flasker i Norge. Lyst sitrongul farge. Røkt, noe mineraler under epler, sitrus og krutt. Frisk syre, livlig, intens, minerals, smør og varme nøtter, syrlig finish, forfriskende om noe røkpreget. 89

2011 Cristom Mount Jefferson Pinot Noir
Kr 298,90
Lyst rubinrød farge. Røde bær, lett parfymert duft, fruktig, kanskje noe vandig. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, avrundet og fruktig, snill, avrundet, relativt elegant. 87

2011 Cristom Sommers Reserve Pinot Noir
Kr 349,90
Lyst rubinrød farge. Parfymert, fruktig, røde bær, kjølig utrykk, lett kryddertone på duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, frisk, stram, røde bær, lett kirsebærstein og noe tight, pen lengde. 90

2012 Cristom Eileen Vineyard Pinot Noir
Kr 436,30
Rubinrød. Lett parfymert duft, røde bær, krydret, muligens ikke hundre prosent flaske. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, lett frukt, sødmefulle bær, litt røff i kantene men blir mer parfymert med mer luft. Trenger antagelig betydelig dekantering, men noe usikkerhet rundt flasken rundt bordet. 88-90

2011 Drouhin Laurene Pinot Noir
Kr 475,-
Granateplerød farge. Røde bær, lett kanel og vanilje, noe krydret langt bak på duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, strukturert og biter nesten i kjaken, livlig men en smule hul i midtpartiet om man pirker, stram finish. 89

2012 County Line Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
Kr 299,-
Lyst rubinrød farge. Smule reduktiv duft og trenger luft, røde bær, kjølig og litt slankere stil. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, røde bær, kjølig, elegant og leskende, litt strammere, pen lengde. 89

2012 Block 7 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
Kr 299,-
Rubinrød farge. Røde bær, mørkere frukt, mer modning, parfymert og lett sødmefull duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rikere og fruktigere, noe sødmefull, mangler litt adresse, noe stram finish. 88

2012 Anthill Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
Kr 329,-
336 flasker kommer. Lyst rubinrød. Noe parfymert, fruktig, elegant, røde bær, servert noe kjølig så den blir litt lukket, antydninger av florale toner. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, leken og elegant, livlig, delikat, røde bær og parfymert finish, lang. 91

2012 Kutch Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
Kr 349,-
Rubinrød. Parfymert, elegant, detaljert duft, røde bær, elegant duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, livlig og fruktig, detaljert, frisk. 90

2010 Scherrer Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
Kr 359,-
Rubinrød farge. Noe nesler, lett jordbærsyltetøy og søte moreller på duft. Frisk syre, kodne tanniner, fruktig, litt rikere, sødmefull og noe strammere finish, krydret. 88

2012 Anthil Campbell Ranch Pinot Noir
Kr 399,-
Rubinrød. Parfymert, røde bær, lett krydret duft, elegant om noe tight. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, avrundet, elegant og nesten kremet tekstur, pen lengde. 90

2011 Anthil Comptche Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir
Kr 399,-
Rubinrød farge. Parfymert duft, krydder, kanel, noe mørkere bær, tight. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik, kjøttfull, fruktig, intens, lett umoden finish, lang. 90

2012 Anthil Peters Vineyard Pinot Noir
Kr 399,-
Lyst rubinrød farge. Røde bær, fruktig duft, parfymert med litt mer luft, ørliten anistone. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, elegant, fruktig, nesten en liten mineraltone langt bak, flott balanse, lang. 92

2012 Lioco Sonoma Coast Laguna Pinot Noir
Kr 354,80
Klart rubinrød farge. Røde bær, parfymert duft, elegant, nesten litt floral. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, frisk, fruktig, rik, intens, sødmefull, kraftig, lang finish. 91

2011 Knez Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
Kr 299,-
Lyst rubinrød, lett tåkete. Tett, lett kokte jordbær, nyper og kirsebær på duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, tight, litt enkel. 84

2010 Knez Cerise Vineyard Pinot Noir
Kr 389,-
Rubinrød. Parfymert, rik, fruktig, anis, krydder, vanilje, litt tyngre duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner,r ik, fruktig, leken, røde bær, forfriskende, lang kjølig finish. 91

2012 Kutch Falstaff Vineyard Pinot Noir
Kr 449,-
Rubinrød. Rik, sødmefull, jordbær og blåbærsyltetøy på duft, krydret. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, tight, trang, mye struktur men har ikke helt frukten til å bakke opp, føles litt varm selv med 12,9 alk. og sødmefull finish, tørrekstrakt. 88

2012 Radio-Coteau Dierke Pinot Noir
Kr 479,-
Klart rubinrød. Sødmefulle mørke bær, rik og fruktig, noe vanilje og kanel på duft. Medium plus syre, modne tanniner, rik, avrundet men noe hul, litt ekstrahert. 88

2012 Radio-Coteau Savoy Pinot Noir
Kr 479,-
Rubinrød. Parfymert, røde bær, fioler, litt rik men relativt flørtende duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, elegant, røde bær, moreller, noe sødmefull men friskhet til å bakke opp, lang. 91

2012 Radio-Coteau Terra Nuema Pinot Noir
Kr 479,-
Rubinrød. Røde bær, parfymert, lett krydret, snev av florale toner langt bak, elegant duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, sødmefull frukt, røde bær, kandiserte fioler, lett krydret, ørliten sjokoladetone, rik, lang finish. 92

2011 Copain Les Voisins Pinot Noir
Kr 329,-
Lyst rubinrød. Røde bær, kanel, krydret, noe mineralsk duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, røde bær, fruktsten, relativt elegant om kanskje lett rustikk i tonen, pen lengde. 89

2012 Copain Monument Tree Pinot Noir
Kr 499,-
Rubinrød. Parfymert, jordbær, bringebær og rips, liten fioltone, elegant duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, leken, fruktig, rikere, intens, sødmefull, litte gran varm finish (13,6), lang. 91

2011 Copain Kiser En Bas Pinot Noir
Kr 499,-
Lyst rubinrød. Kandiserte røde epler, kanel, kirsebær, vanilje, røde bær og fat. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, litt slank men sødmefull, røde bær, fruktig, pen lengde. 90

2011 Copain Kiser En Haut Pinot Noir
Kr 499,-
Lyst rubinrød farge. Parfymert, røde bær, kandiserte fioler, liten sjokoladetone igjen på duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, fruktig, leken, livlig, forfriskende, røde bær, elegant, lang. 92

2010 Scherrer Platt Vineyard Pinot Noir
Kr 499,-
Kun ca 100 kasser laget. Lyserød farge. Parfymert, røde bær, intens, fenikkel, timian og nesten en tone hengt kjøtt. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik og sødmefull, følger ikke opp duften, blir litt ensformig men opprettholder en bra friskhet selv med 14,2 alk. 90

2010 Scherrer Big Brother Pinot Noir
Kr 399,-
Rubinrød. Vanilje, krydder, røde bær, fruktsten, rikt og sødmefull duft. Medium syre, modne tanniner, rik, fruktig, sødmefullt, opprettholder en viss friskhet men rik og varm finish. (14,8). 89

2012 Mount Eden Estate Pinot Noir
Kr 434,70
Rubinrød. Nyper, fruktsten, røde bær, lett nesle tone, krydder og avnilje på duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, frisk, livlig men litt slank, strukturert men er det nok frukt til å takle fatene på sikt? Litt hul finish med mye fatspice. 88

Bedrock Shebang VII Old Vine Red Cuvée
Kr 228,70
Dyprød, lilla kant. Rik, fruktig, sødmefull, mørke bær, vanilje, tung duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik og sødmefull, fruktig, strukturert, litt hul finish, varm. 87

2012 Arnot-Roberts North Coast Syrah
Kr 336,30
Dyprød farge. Rik, fruktig, multer, bjørnebær, sødmefull og intens duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, sødmefull, fruktig, nesler under, kraftig og søt finish. 88

2012 County Line Russian River Valley Syrah
Kr 299,-
Dyprød farge. Mørke bær, fruktig duft, anis, lær og pepper i bakgrunn. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, frisk og livlig, fruktig, bjørnebær, noe sødmefull men friskhet til å bakke opp, pen lengde. 89

2012 Radio-Coteau Las Colinas Syrah
Kr 399,-
Mot opak. Rik, sødmefull duft, bjørnebær, vaniljetoner bak og pepper, krydret. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik, sødmefull og fruktig, intens, bjørnebær og blåbær, syrlig og livlig, lang finish. 91

2012 Lioco Mendocino County Indica Carignan
Kr 275,20
Rubinrød. Parfymert, mørke bær, sjokolade, krydret, plommer, rik duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik og sødmefull men livlig og relativt forfriskende, sødmefull finish. 88

2012 Bedrock Evanghelo Heritage Wine
Kr 404,30
Mot opak. Rik, intens, heftig duft, mørke bær, lett alkoholtone på duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rikt og sødmefullt, søtt av mørke bær, varm finish. 87

2010 Graziano Petite Sirah Old Vines
Kr 229
Mot opak. Rik, fruktig, krydret, mørke bær, banantone langt bak og svakt floral. Medium syre, modne tanniner, sødmefull og virker kunstig. 85

2010 Thackrey Sirius Petite Sirah
Kr 488,80
Opak. Krydderkake, eukalyptus, nybakte boller, kardemomme, intenst og rikt, mørke bær. Frisk, syre, modne tanniner, rik, hefitg, alkoholen skinner igjennom, døyver munnen, (15,1), heftig og anderledes. Lang finish. 92

2011 Graziano Zinfandel Mendocino
Kr 249,-
Rubinrød. Krydret, hengt kjøtt, svisker, kokt jordbær på duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik og fruktig men slank for zinfandel, litt tørrstoffer i finish. 87

2011 Graziano Zinfandel Reserve
Kr 299,-
Rubinrød. Litt kokt nesle og mørke bær, vanilje og krydder på duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik og fruktig, sødmefull, varm lakris finish. 88

2012 County Line Russian River Valley Zinfandel
Kr 299,-
Mot opak. Rik, fruktig og sødmefull duft, bjørnebær og vanilje, noe krydder. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, fruktig og sødmefull, nesten mot søtladen. Litt enkel. 87

2012 Bedrock Lorenzo's Heritage Wine
Kr 390,70
Rubinrød. Rik, sødmefull, alkoholisk og krydder på duft. Medium syre, modne tanniner, rik, sødmefull, kraftig, søt frukt. 87

2012 Bedrock Sonoma Valley Old Vine Zinfandel
Kr 309,70
Mot opak. Rik, krydret, fruktig, pepper, vanilje, mørke bær på duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik og sødmefull, pepperkaker og kardemomme, mørke bær, litt varm finish. 88

2011 Scherrer Old and Mature Vines Zinfandel
Kr 329,-
Rubinrød. Mørke bær, plommer, bjørnebær, rik og fruktig duft. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik, fruktig, sødmefull, bløt, søt finish. 87

2006 Dunn Howell Mountain
Kr 757,20
Dypt rubinrød. Lag på lag, rik duft, solbær, parfymert, lær, tobakk, parfymert, intens. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, rik, fruktig, lag på lag, intenst men også elegant, detaljert og kompleks, lang. Trenger tid enda. 2020- 95

2003 Dunn Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Kr 690,50
Dypt rubinrød. Lær, lakris, solbær, intens, parfymert, lag på lag på duft. Kaffe og sjokolade. Frisk syre, modne tanniner, litt tørrende, lakris, strukturert og livlig, trenger fortsatt tid eller vesentlig lufting, lang. 91

2003 Dunn Howell Mountain
Kr 799,30
Dypt rubinrød. Mørke bær, parfymert, rik og fruktig duft, intens, lakris, lag på lag, kompleks, tobakk, solbær, heftig. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, intense, deep, fruity, structured, long and layered. 95

Hvite smakt av Zalto Universal, pinot av Riedel Vinum Burgund og øvrige av Riedel Vinum Bordeaux.

Vega-Sicilia tasting in Copenhagen earlier this year. 1922-1998

When a chance to taste several vintages of Vega-Sicilia arrives in the mailbox, you just jump right on it as it may never happen again. This cold winter evening vintages between 1998 and 1922 was being poured, a rare treat indeed. I was fortunate enough to taste several of the vintages from both bottles that was opened of each wine from two generous fellow tasters who shared to see the differences between bottles of same vintage. A very consistent tasting with a clear house style visible from the youngest to oldest. One of the most consistent tastings I've been to, only a recent Haut-Brion tasting stretching from 1918-1999 has been similarly consistent. This tasting was arranged by Bruun Rasmussen auction house in Denmark.

All bottles double decanted about one hour before serving.

1998 Alion
(Magnum) Deep ruby, floral, scented, dark berries, violets, spices and vanilla nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rich but nuanced and rounded, fresh and lively, long. 90

1995 Vega-Sicilia Valbuena
Ruby, garnet rim. Tobacco, leather, cigars. Blueberries and anise nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rouned, heavier, lacks some nuances, slightly plump. 90

Vega-Sicilia Reserva Especial
90, 91 and 94 vintages in the blend. Ruby. Red berries, vanilla, spices, exotic, floral, rich and nuanced nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, liquorice, blueberries and darker fruits, nuanced, rich and long. 94

1998 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby. Youthful, blueberries, spices, anise and heavier liquorice nose, rich and detailed, getting into its stride. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity and rounded, rich and still detailed, has sharpened up since last bottle, firmer, long. 94

1994 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby. Scented, blueberries, vanilla, spices, detailed, rich but subdued nose, blackberries, blueberries and floral notes, gorgeous nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, velvety, detailed, rounded and fresh, detailed and rich, layers and waves of flavours, has added since last bottle, stunning if youthful. 96

1983 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, garnet rim. Blueberries, cedar, tobacco, anise, detailed nose, violets, leather, rich, nuanced and slightly sweet nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, more prunes on the palate, figs, evolving, leaner palate, fresh and lively, lovely, ads more in the finish. 94

1983 Vega-Sicilia Unico
A second bottle shows a bit more fruit on the nose with a rounder and fuller body and palate. 94

1982 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, very thin brick rim. Rich nose, anise, leather, prunes, figs, some vanilla notes, detailed, spicy, lots of plums. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, sweet prunes and plums, figs, leather, anise, more biting and firmer finish, long. 93

1982 Vega-Sicilia Unico
A second bottle shows some more red berries and blueberries, bit less textured finish. 93

1979 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, brick rim. Liquorice, anise, figs, coffee, bit tight, slightly pruney nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and lively, leaner palate, mature and some drier notes, mature and drink now. Good length. 89

1979 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Slightly fruitier and not quite as mature. 90

1975 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, garnet rim. Anise, liquorice, figs, blueberries, sexy nose, layered, nuanced and detailed, rich, maturing nicely. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and ripe, fruity, rounded, refreshing, not quite as detailed, softer and easier palate, bit sweet, very long. 96

1975 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Very similar to the above bottle.

1974 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, garnet rim. Tobacco, spices, mint, exotic nose, some figs, dark berries and leather, deep nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich, fruity but narrower mid-palate and finish, long but not as exuberant as the 75. 95

1974 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Very similar bottle.

1973 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, thin brick rim. Less intense nose, some spices, prunes, figs and cheese notes. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, fresh, lively, rounded, delicate but not that intense, nuanced. Tobacco-figs finish. 92

1973 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Very similar bottle.

1972 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, thin brick rim. Scented, prunes, liquorice, leather, dates, exotic nose, lovely. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, lively, fresh and pruney palate, anise, sweet, very slight hung meat note, long. 92

1970 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Deepish ruby, thin brick rim. Rich nose, chocolate, blueberries, figs, leather, scented and layered, complex and refined nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh, lively, nuanced, fruity, detailed, gorgeous nose, reminds me of 1970 Château Latour but with kinder texture, nuanced, rich and very long. 96

1970 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Somewhat less detailed bottle. 95

1968 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, garnet rim. Liquorice, prunes, figs, evolved nose, leather, dark chocolate, bit leaner nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, softer tannins, fresh and elegant, red berries palate, nuanced and elegant, long finish. 92

1968 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Bit rounder and slightly more figs and somewhat fruitier finish. 93

1965 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, garnet rim. Blueberries, figs, leather, anise, black tea, jasmine and violets nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, lively and leaner and slightly dry towards the finish, prunes palate, bit iodine behind, drink now bottle. 91

1960 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, brick rim. Cinnamon, spices, some prunes, spicy cake, Christmas spices nose. Fresh acidity, tannins letting go, fresh if not very fruity, but not to thin either, lingers on, refreshing and nuanced. 89

1953 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Bright ruby, brick rim. Figs, leather, prunes, liquorice in abundance, violets nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and lively, fruity if leaner, dark berries and figs, long. 93

1953 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Bright ruby, brick rim. Blueberries, figs, leather, liquorice, exotic, floral and detailed nose, more youthful than last bottle. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rounder palate, fruity, figs and plums, blueberries, long. 95

1948 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, brick rim. Scented, earthy, sous bois, figs, prunes, mature but sweet nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, lean, coffee, violets, fresh if leaner palate, refreshing, almost Burgundian finish. 90

1948 Vega-Sicilia Unico
A second bottle shows more blueberries and fruitier palate. 91

1922 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby core with brown-orange rim. Caramel, figs and spices, volatile, lean and metallic.

1922 Vega-Sicilia Unico
Ruby, orange rim. Plums, spices, violets and some dark berries clinging to their life. Fresh acidity, tannins gone, detailed if lean but lively, delicate, long and lean finish. 93

Gloria and Saint-Pierre tasting

2011 Château Bel-Air
Ruby. Lightly scented, cassis, some vanilla and light spice note nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, leaner, fresh, bit short. 86

2010 Château Bel-Air
Ruby. Lightly scented, cassis, some floral notes, cassis and vanilla nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, towards playful, quite elegant, fresh and fruity, good length. 89

2011 Château Haut Beychevelle Gloria
Ruby. Cassis, light mineral note, scented nose, light violets touch. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and lively, somewhat leaner, again minerals, slightly woody finish, needs decanting for an hour or five years cellaring. 88

2011 Château Gloria
Ruby. Scented, cassis, floral, some vanilla, light spicy note and blackberries nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, fresh, leaner, very slight bell pepper note far back, red and darker fruits, smooth texture, good length. Now-2025 89

2010 Château Gloria
Ruby. Scented, dark berries, elegant nose, detailed, floral, cassis, some vanilla. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, detailed, rounded, minerals, cassis, floral high notes, very elegant if still structured. Long. 2017-2030 91

2009 Château Gloria
Ruby. Dark fruits, vanilla, spices, cassis and blueberries, bit tight now. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, fresh, somewhat leaner finish, floral notes over fruits in the finish. 90 2017-2030

1996 Château Saint- Pierre
Ruby, garnet rim. Scented, red berries, leather, floral, leaner bottle. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, red apples, minerals, leather, light tobacco note, some cherries, detailed. Long. Now-2020 90

2008 Château Saint- Pierre
Ruby. Scented, cassis, light floral note, detailed and elegant, almost flirting nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and lively, minerals, cassis, floral high notes, this could become a real charmer in a few years. 2018-2030 91

2011 Château Saint- Pierre
Ruby. Scented, cassis, violets and roses, flirting nose, even if young. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, elegant, detailed, minerals beneath, long. Now-2025 90

2010 Château Saint- Pierre
Deep ruby. Scented, richer, ripe nose, cassis, tobacco, some floral notes far back, little bit closed now. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, intense, ripe, rich and fruity, detailed, complex, layered, long. Needs time. 2020-2040 93

08 Moulin Saint-Georges and more

2012 Val de Mercy Petit Chablis
Pale lemon yellow. Pears and light minerals nose. Fresh acidity, light apples and pears note, some minerals, slightly bitter finish. 83

2013 Reichsrat von Buhl Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, fruity, light floral note nose. Fresh acidity, rounded, ripe and fruity, fresh if a bit short finish. 85

2008 Château Moulin Saint- Georges
Ruby. Scented, dark fruits, plums, vanilla, blueberries and a faint mineral note beneath on the nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, a bit rough edged first but after an hour in decanter, more subtle and smooth. Fruit driven and long. 91

September release from Record

2013 Hexamer Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples and minerals nose. Fresh acidity, fresh and crisp, citrus finish. 83

2013 Hexamer Schlossböckelheimer Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals and a light flinty note nose. Fresh acidity, lively, fruity if leaner palate, refreshing. 86

2013 Hexamer Schlossböckelheimer Königsfels Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, fresh nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded palate, lovely citrus note, good length. 87

2013 Hexamer Schlossböckelheimer Riesling Porphyr
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, light floral note on top. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh, fruity and mouthwatering, minerals beneath. 86

2012 Künstler Hochheimer Hölle Riesling Kabinett trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals and grapefruits nose. Fresh acidity, lively palate, green apples, light bitter note in finish, good length. 88

2013 Künstler Pinot Noir Rosé trocken
Pale pink. Light fruity nose. Fresh acidity, rounded and fruity, charming. 84

2012 Künstler Hochheim Weiss Erd Riesling GG
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, floral notes, chalky minerals nose. Fresh acidity, rounded texture, fruity and fresh, good length. 88

2012 Künstler Hochheim Kirchenstück Riesling GG
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, more subdued nose, needs air. Fresh acidity, rounded, apples, citrus, together and a bit firm now, long. 90-91

2013 Markus Molitor Schiefer Riesling BIB
Watery lemon yellow. Light apply nose. Fresh acidity and again light apply palate. 81

2013 Battenfeld-Spanier Riesling trocken BIB
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals and fresh nose. Fresh acidity, lively and fresh. 80

2013 Battenfeld-Spanier Estate Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, citrus and floral nose. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh, citrus and apples palate and finish, good length. 85

2013 Battenfeld-Spanier Eisbach Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, lemons and lime nose, minerals beneath. Fresh acidity, lively and detailed, good length. 86

2013 Battenfeld-Spanier Hohen-Sülzen Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, detailed, changing up a gear, floral notes nose. Fresh acidity, lively palate, aromatic and mouthwatering, good length. 88

2013 Battenfeld-Spanier Grüner Sylvaner trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Light citrus note and green apples nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, lively, good length. 85

2013 Battenfeld-Spanier Hohen-Sülzen Kirchenstück Riesling GG
Pale lemon yellow. Green and some yellow apples, minerals, detailed, slightly orange blossoms floral note, nuanced nose. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh, detailed, minerals, citrus, long finish. 91

2013 Battenfeld-Spanier Nieder-Flörsheim Frauenberg Riesling GG
Pale lemon yellow. Minerals up front, apples, citrus, transparent and detailed nose. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh, somewhat leaner and narrower palate, focused, lively finish, long. 92

2013 Battenfeld-Spanier Mölsheim Zellerweg am Schwarzen Herrgott Riesling GG
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, detailed kose, more floral notes in the back. Fresh acidity, lively, focused, refreshing and detailed, long. 92

2013 Kühling-Gillot Qvinterra Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Light nose, fruity with minerals and grapefruit touch. Fresh acidity, rounded, fresh and fruity. 85

2013 Kühling-Gillot Oppenheim Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, pears, fruity nose. Fresh acidity, lively and fresh palate, detailed and subdued, playful. 87

2013 Kühling-Gillot Nierstein Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Minerals, apples and lemons nose. Fresh acidity, crisp and detailed palate, grapefruits and orange blossoms, lime finish. 88

2013 Kühling-Gillot Nackenheim Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, tighter nose, bit closed, some floral notes behind. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh and fruity, rounded, apples finish. 88

2013 Kühling-Gillot Nierstein Ölberg Riesling GG
Pale lemon yellow. Apples and minerals but very tight and closed, needs lots of decanter time. Give it at least an hour. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh and fruity, rounded, detailed and long. 90-91 maybe higher in future.

2013 Kühling-Gillot Nierstein Pettenthal Riesling GG
Pale lemon yellow. Minerals, almost smokey notes, flinty, apples and lime nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, lively, fresh and detailed palate, apples and lime, long. 92

2009 Künstler Spätburgunder Tradition
Pale ruby. Strawberries and mulberries nose.  Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity palate, red berries finish. 86

2009 Kesseler Pinot Noir
Bright ruby. Raspberries and vanilla nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, structured, red berries and vanilla, bit biting finish, could have less oak. 87

September release from B&R

2009 Rolet Cremant de Jura
Pale lemon yellow, small bubbles. Apples, fruity, light minerals nose. Fresh acidity, elegant mousse, fruity and rounded. 84

2013 Zarate Albarino
Pale lemon yellow. Light apples and some tropical notes nose. Nutty touch. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, fresh, elegant, fairly lively. 87

2012 Balthasar Ress Von Unsern Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, light minerals and peach note nose. Fresh acidity, lively and fresh, fruity, good length. 86

2012 Von Hövel Riesling Kabinett Rocken Balduin
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, floral, lightly scented, almost a rose touch on the nose. Fresh acidity, rounded, fruity, fresh, little bit boring palate. 85

2012 Von Hövel Kanzem Hörecker Riesling
Pale lemon yellow. Scented, apples, detailed, light tropical notes, cool minerals, elegant nose. Fresh acidity, lively, elegant, detailed, bit tight, nuanced, slight grapefruit note, long. 90

2012 Von Hövel Scharzhofberger Riesling
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, tight, bit sulphur up front, needs air. Fresh acidity, rounded, fresh, fruity, green apples, grapefruits, minerals, lemons, long finish. 91

2013 Von Hövel Oberemmeler Hütte Riesling Kabinett
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, light orange blossoms note nose. Fresh acidity, rounded, fresh and lively, mouthwatering green apples palate, fresh. 87

2011 Von Hövel Scharzhofberger Riesling Auslese 33
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, fresh and fruity nose, light tropical note, floral. Fresh acidity, lively, fruity, rounded, fresh and detailed, long. 92

2011 Rolet Arbois Chardonnay Harmonie
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, orchids, light mineral note and some honey nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, rich, warm and creamy palate, light cheese note. 89

2009 Rolet Côtes de Jura Expression du Terroir Chardonnay-Savagnin
Lemon yellow. Rich, honeyed nuts, oxidative, flor note nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, rich, minerals, tropical, nuts and honey, slightly sweet tone. 90

2007 Rolet Côtes de Jura Savagnin
Towards golden. Nuts, flor, minerals, honey, mushrooms and forest floor nose. Fresh acidity, lively, almost crisp before fuller and riper finish, again almost sweet fruits in the finish. 90

2006 Rolet Arbois Vin Jeaune
Golden. Nuts, apricots, minerals, almost flinty, intense nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, intense before narrower mid palate, almost salty, some nuts and a slight sweet note mid palate, long. 91

2012 Giacomo Ascheri Barbera d'Alba Fontanelle
Ruby. Dark berries, liquorice, fruity nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, fresh. 84

83 visits around the Med.

2013 Gentilini Robola of Cephalonia Cellar Selection
Pale lemon yellow. Light tropical notes nose, minerals, volcanic and light smoky nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, fresh, elegant and fresh, slightly bitter finish. Bit warm (14) serve it chilled. 87

2013 Mediterra Xerolithia (Vilana)
Pale golden. Apples, ripe lemons, different nose. Fresh acidity, lively, elegant, fresh, fresh pears and citrus, almost salty minerals, lovely. Good length. 88

2012 Athina Santorini Assyrtiko
Towards lemon yellow. Pears, fruity, citrus, minerals, fresh nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, phenolic, structured, more creamy palate. Not the style one expects from Assyrtiko. 88

2013 Argyros Estate Aidani
Pale lemon yellow. Citrus, apples, light fresh butter note and towards light saltiness in the nose. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh and detailed, rounded, almost light aioli note in the finish. 88

2013 Argyros Estate Santorini Assyrtiko
400 year old plants! Pale lemon yellow. Apples, light citrus, transparent nose. Minerals. Fresh acidity, fresh and rounded, intense, citrus and salty minerals, fresh finish. 89

2012 Sigalas Santorini Kavalieros Assyrtiko
Towards lemon yellow. Minerals, ripe lemons, light floral note nose. Fresh acidity, rounded and creamy texture, richer and fruity, slightly warm finish. 89

2013 Mora et Memo Tino Vermentino di Sardegna
Towards lemon yellow. Apples high note over honey and ripe melons, bit rich. Fresh acidity, rounded, sweetish note, fruity, light floral note and somewhat bitter finish. Creamy. 87

2012 Nuraghe Crabioni Kanimari Vermentino di Sardegna
Towards lemon yellow. Tutti frutti, canned pears and apples nose. Freshish acidity, fruity, rounded, fairly fresh and rounded, citrus finish. 85

2013 U Tabarka Giancu
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, fresh and elegant nose. Fresh acidity, fresh and detailed, floral, fruity, minerals, creamy. 87

2013 U Tubarka Perdigiournou
Pale lemon yellow. Grapefruit, apples, melons, highly aromatic nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, aromatic, citrus, detailed, fresh and lively, good length. 88

2013 Contini Karmis
Towards lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, flinty and smoky, riper fruits behind. Fresh acidity, fruity, rich, ripe, rounded, slightly warm (13,5) good length. Bit numbing. 86

2013 Casa d'Ambra Euposia Forastera
Watery golden. Honey, some wax, very light of lilies nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, ripe, more citrus on the palate, fruity, good length. 87

2013 Casa d'Ambria Frassitelli Biancolella
Pale lemon yellow. Slightly nutty and almost beacon note on the nose, floral high notes and something earthy and sweetish towards sweet potatoes. Fresh acidity, lively, detailed, frrsh and citrusy, green apples, almost schistes like minerality, good length, 89

2013 Joaquin Joaquin dall'Isola
Towards golden. Highly floral nose, like sticking your nose into lilium regale's with a ripe peach sandwich in your hand. (Peach sandwich is unusual but there is a light bread note underneath). Freshish acidity, sweetish note, ripe fruits, fresher finish, fairly detailed. 88

2013 Caravaglio Salina Bianco
Towards lemon yellow. Scented, tropical and light citrus nose. Light canned fruits note. Freshish acidity, rounded, sweetish and grapey, think light Moscatel touch, fresh and leaner finish. 87

2012 Hauner Salina Carlo Hauner
Pale golden. Rich nutty nose, volcanic, smoky nose. Freshish acidity, fruity, yellow apples, citrus behind, more tender palate than nose, good length. 86

2013 Caravaglio Infatata
Golden. Citrus scent, orange blossoms and smoky minerals. Fresh acidity, lively and fruity, elegant and fresh, detailed, slightly bitter finish. Good length. 87

2013 Hauner Iancura
Lemon yellow. Melons, honey, floral notes nose. Freshish acidity, rounded,f ruity, fuller palate, light bitterness and fruity, salty finish, good length. 88

2012 Terre Nere Etna Bianco Vigne Niche
Pale golden. Butter, salty, minerals, lemons, orange blossoms and iris nose. Fresh acidity, lively, rounded, fresh and detailed, nuanced, creamy, long. 91

2012 Itsasmendi Itsasmendi 7
Pale golden. Light flint and butter tone, peach note far back, smoky with more air. Freshish acidity, fruity, apples, light pears core note, fresh yellow apples finish with some smoky notes behind. Good length. 86

2013 Pedralonga Albarino
Towards golden. Fruity, fresh butter and nuts, floral and yellow fruity nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, fresh, orange finish. 87

2012 Altes Benufet Garnatxa Blanca
Pale lemon yellow. Slightly reductive nose, decant it, apples, greapefruits and light floral notes, richer nose. Fresh acidity, pears, peach and Sorrento lemons palate, fresh and yellow fruity, ripe, good length. 88

2012 Rodrigues Mountain Blanco
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, aromatic, floral and grapey. Some citrus. Fresh acidity but flatter palate, fresh and fruity if leaner. 85

2012 Rodrigues El Transistor
Pale golden. Peach and canned pears, lightly scented. Fresh acidity, fresh and lively, detailed, citrus and minerals finish. 87

2012 Barco del Corneta Verdejo
Pale golden. Light popcorn and butter nose, smoky minerals. Freshish acidity, lemons, butter, smokey, fruity, rounded finish. 86

2012 Maranones Piesdescalzos
Towards lemon yellow. Smokey, nutty, freshly cut wood. Freshish acidity, fruity, rounded, apples, peach notes, citrus, fresh finish. 87

2012 Soagranorte Vidonia
Towards lemon yellow. Rich, nutty, woody, spicy and honey nose. Freshish acidity, fresh and fruity, lime and popcorn palate, smoky. 86

2013 R. Palacios Bolo
Pale lemon yellow. Floral, fruity, rounded nose, more layers behind. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, fresh, detailed, good length. 88

2013 Godeval Cepas Vellas
Towards golden. Light almonds nose, some citrus. Fresh acidity, transparent, fruity and elegant, fresh. 85

2013 R. Palacios As Sortes
Towards lemon yellow. Apples, pears, light peach and floral high note. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh and fruity, narrower, slightly creamy and rounded, fresh finish. 89

2011 Abbatucci Faustine Vieilles Vignes
Bright ruby. Herbs, red berries, seems cool and fresh. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, leaner, almost Burgundian without the strawberries. 87

2012 Abbatucci Cuvée Collection Ministre Imperial Jacques-Pierre-Charles Abbatucci
Pale ruby. Red berries, fresh and fruity nose, scented and detailed nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, rounded, red berries, ripe, rich, slightly warm finish, long. 90

2013 Mediterra Mandilari Langada
Ruby. Red berries, lightly scented, some liquorice the nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, fresh and detailed, quite lively and fresh, by for the best red from Crete I've tasted, but haven't tasted wines from here in years. 86

2011 Mercouri Daphne Nera
Ruby. Scented, vanilla, ripe dark fruits nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, rich and ripe, heavier attack before lighter finish, not as astringent as most Mavrodaphne's. Good length. Serve it slightly chilled. 87

2011 Mercouri Refosco Klonos Mercouri
About 2000 bottles made and this Refosco clone is only available in this wine. Older clone than the ones in Friuli. Deep ruby. Dark fruits, liquorice, slightly woody and almost bell pepper note nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, somewhat rustic palate, bit dry. 87

2012 Driopi Nemea Classic Agiorgitiko
Ruby. Dark fruits, anise, some vanilla, ripe fruits nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, lively, rounded, fresh finish, all the way sweet dark fruits beneath. 87

2010 Gaia Nemea Estate Agiorgitiko
Ruby. Ripe, dark fruits, anise, vanilla, scented, fruity, intense nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, rounded, ripe fruits, fresh and fairly lively, long. 91

2013 Pusole Cannonau di Sardegna
Bright ruby. Red berries, raspberries, lightly scented and some iron notes nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and lively, fruity, red-currants and raspberries lemonade finish. 88

2011 Atha Ruja Cannonau di Sardegna
Ruby. Ripe dark fruits, liquorice and some alcohol on the nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, ripe and sweet but freshness to back it (served chilled), fairly smooth, slightly alcoholic finish. 87

2013 Mora et Memo Nau Cannonau di Sardegna
Ruby. Ripe, rich, intense, some herbs and dark fruits nose. Smokey and rubbery. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, fruity but somehow hollow, fresh dark fruity finish. Good length. 88

2012 Contini Nieddera
Deep ruby. Dark fruits and nettles nose, liquorice, lightly scented. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, almost cassis note, fresh. 87

2010 Atha Ruja Muristellu
Ruby. Lightly smoky and towards hung game nose, pepper and liquorice. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, red and darker fruits palate, liquorice sweetness, fruity. 88

2013 U Tabarka Ciu Roussou
Ruby. Red berries, slightly spicy, dark fruits and anise. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, ripe and sweet, bit alcoholic, bit big and also hollow for me. 85

2011 Sardus Pater Is Solus Carignano del Sulcis
Ruby. Rich, warm, fruity, ripe, almost charcoal. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, ripe, fresher palate, bit warm and sweet. 86

2009 Sardus Pater Is Arenas Carignano del Sulcis Riserva
Ruby. Rich, ripe, alcohol nose, dark fruits. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, sweet, ripe, fruity, vanilla, rich and sweet, alcohol finish. 87

2012 Caravaglio Nero du Munti
Deep ruby. Rich raspberries and plums nose, loght nettles note, fruity. Fresh acidity, ripe and soft tannins, fruity, rounded and fresh. 86

2012 Hauner Hiera
Ruby. Plums, spices, cooked raspberries nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, elegant, bit lean. 87

2013 Manenti Cerasuolo di Vittoria
Ruby. Scented and ripe dark berries, light alcohol note, plums and blacberries. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity and quite elegant, refreshing, raspberries finish. 88

2012 Manenti Nero d'Avola
Deep ruby. Ripe, rich, plums and figs, violets on top. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, fresh, fairly detailed, fresher palate (serve it a bit chilled). 87

2013 Pietradolce Etna Rosso
Bright ruby. Scented, red berries, fruity, ripe, fairly detailed, Pinot like. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and vibrant, fruity but a little bit warm (14). 87

2012 Le Vigne di Eli Etna Rosso Moganazzi Volta Sciara
Ruby. Slightly spicy nose, dark fruits and red berries, light stone from stone fruit note. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and alcoholic, bit hollow palate, nettles finish. 86

2012 Le Vigne di Eli Etna Rosso Pignatuni
Ruby. Scented, pears, red berries, alcohol on top on the nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, rich and ripe, but also hollow, alcoholic finish (15). 84

2011 Le Vigne di Eli Etna Rosso Pignatuni
Corked

2012 Franchetti Contrada R Rampante
Bright ruby. Scented, fruity, ripe and jammy, red fruits. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, quite playful, fresher palate, bit alcoholic finish. 87

2012 Franchetti Contrada P Porcaria
Ruby. Red berries, vanilla, alcohol, jammy and fruity. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, sweet and ripe, served quite chillded making it fresher. 87

2012 Terre Nere Etna Rosso Caldera Sottana
Bright ruby. Red berries, ripe fruits, slight nettles note, scented and jammy. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, ripe, sweet, jammy and some nettles again, good length. 87

2012 Terre Nere Etna Rosso Guardiola
Ruby. Scented, red berries, fresh strawberry jam nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, fruity and sweet, bit warm alcohol (14,5). 85

2012 Terre Nere Etna Rosso Santo Spirito
Ruby. Red berries, fruity, scented, strawberry jam nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, ripe and rich, lots of alcohol (14,5), sweet. 87

2012 Terre Nere Etna Rosso Prephylloxera
Ruby. Alcohol over ripe and jammy red berries, scented and some anise. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and big, sweet, alcoholic, bit hollow finish. 87

2012 Zarate Caino Tinto
Ruby. Highly aromatic, red berries, nettles and faint rubber note. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, lively, fresh and fruity, nuanced, mouthwatering finish. 88

2011 Pedralonga Tinto DoUmia
Ruby. Scented, red berries, anise, rubber note almost like warm trainers. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, ripe, fruity, red berries, quite invigorating palate. 88

2013 Perez El Castro de Valtuille Mencia Joven
Ruby. Rich, dark fruits, jammy blueberries nose. Medium acidity, ripe tannins, soft and sweet, alcoholic (14) and somewhat unbalanced finish. 86

2012 Serrana Uttaris
Deep ruby. Rich, fruity, ripe, rubber, cooked, lightly scented nose. Medium acidity, smooth texture, fruity, rounded, a bit alcoholic. 84

2011 J. Palacios Villa de Corullon
Ruby. Red and blackberries nose, scented, ripe and fruity nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and ripe, fruity, more nuances, bit big and warm. (15) 88

2011 J. Palacios Las Lamas
Ruby. Red and darker fruits nose, ripe, fruity and rich, needs air. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and fruity, rounded, warm and ripe but manages, (15) even if on the warm side in the finish. 89

2011 J. Palacios Moncerbal
Ruby. Rich and jammy nose, alcohol. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, slightly fresher palate, some floral high notes, sweet and jammy. 89

2010 Telmo Rodrigues Pegaso Pizarra
Ruby. Ripe, rich, scented, dark fruits, jammy and chocolate nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, soft, rich and fruity, white chocolate and red berries finish, bit warm (14,5) 89

2010 Niepoort/ Seabra Ladredo
1740 bottles made. Ruby. Ripe, rich and fruity nose, alcohol. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, red berries and red gooseberries palate, lively and fresh. 89

2012 Maranones Maranones
Ruby. Scented, red berries, plums, ripe and rich nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, sweet and ripe, leaner fruit, has some red berries freshness, warm finish. (14). 87

2011 Maranones Pena Caballera
Ruby. Spicy, red berries, leaner nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, bit sweet and hollow. 86

2010 Terra Personas Negra
Ruby. Reductive, nettles, coffee, burnt rubber nose, big. Fresh acidity, ripe fruits, jammy, big and alcoholic (14,5). 86

2013 Terra Personas Vermella
Deep ruby. Rich, jammy and darkf ruits nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, rich and fruity, lacks complexity and length. 85

2012 Mas Doix Les Crestes
Ruby. Rich, fruity, ripe and big, alcohol on top. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and fruity, livelier and more nuanced palate, fresh finish. 89

2011 Alvaro Palacios Finca Dofi
Ruby. Tobacco, anise, blue- and blackberries, scented, vanilla and some spices. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rich and sweet, somewhat jammy, rich and fruity, warm finish. 90

2011 Soagranorte La Solana
Ruby. Red berries, liquorice and sweaty feet nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, lively and fresh, redcurrants and rose hips palate, good length. 87

2012 Soagranorte El Ciruelo
Bright ruby. Red berries, scented, lighter nose, fairly detailed. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, red berries, lively palate. 88

2011 Nuraghe Crabioni Moscato di Sorso-Sennori
Towards amber. Rich orange marmalade, apricot jam nose, grapey nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded if a little bit hollow and somewhat burnt note before raisins finish. 89

2012 Caravaglio Malvasia della Lipari
Golden. Rich, dried fruits, cloudberries nose. Fresh acidity, lively, fruity, intense, lacks some complexity, but fine balance and quite elegant. 88

2010 Columbu Malvasia di Bosa (dry)
Golden. Nutty, oxidised, flor notes, intense and waxy. Fresh acidity, leaner, focused, dry, something between dry sherry and Sercial from madeira, lean salty minerals finish with nut cakes and dried fruit notes. Focused. 92

1990 Contini Vernacchia di Oristano Riserva
Slightly cloudy pale amber. Caramel, toffee, behind some raisins and dried fruits. Fresh acidity, salty, minerals, intense, smoky, leaner, VA, slight dried apricots and salty finish. Long. 90

Contini Vernacchia di Oristano Antico Gregori
Orange with golden hue. Salty, minerals, salty nuts, some orange marmalade and dried apricots. Fresh acidity, intense, lively, leaner, extreme salty minerals, layered, narrow and long. This is a wine you will never find again I guess, average age of this solera is 70 years, this disappeared from the market ten years back and only about fifty bottles left! 91

Lustau Amontillado VORS 30 YO
Amber. Rich, minerals, nuts, salty, chalk and some dried fruits. High acidity, bone dry, salty, hugely intense, very refreshing and overshadows most. 91

Lustau Palo Cortado VORS 30 YO
Amber. Rich nose, intense, dried fruits, minerals, salty and almonds. High acidity, cough medicine, hugely intense, massively salty, salty pistachios, hefty finish. 92

Lustau Oloroso VORS  30 YO
Amber. Intense, raisins, nuts, dried fruits, very mineral and salty nose. High acidity, dried fruits, massively intense, nuts and lively, detailed, long. 91

All white wines tasted from Zalto Universal, reds from Riedel Vinum Burgundy

Moestue September release

Billecart Salmon Blancs de Blancs Brut
Pale lemon yellow, small bubbles. Apples, minerals, yeast note quite fruity nose. Fresh acidity, elegant mousse, citrus and fresh apples, good length. 89

Benoit Lahaye Rosé de Macération Extra Brut
Pale red, small bubbles. Red berries, red apples and light yeast nose. Fresh acidity, elegant mousse, firmer texture, fresh finish. 88

Billecart Salmon Brut Rosé
Watery pink, small bubbles. Apples, yeast note, minerals, plaster nose, transparent. Fresh acidity, elegant mousse, fruity, rounded, fresh, elegant. 89

2013 Coffele Soave Classico Ca Visco
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, clean and fruity nose, elegant. Fresh acidity, fresh and lively, elegant. 85

2013 Lafon Domaine des Héretières Macon Villages
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, fruity, minerals, light butter note far back on the nose. Fresh acidity, elegant and fresh, leaner Macon, little bit short. 86

2012 Ostertag Pinot Gris Barriques
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, peach, light honey and yeast nose. Freshish acidity, rounded, fruity, slightly bitter finish. 86

2010 Leroux Puligny-Montrachet
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, flinty, richer and riper nose for Puligny, almost Meursault smokyness on the nose. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh and fruity, rounded, ripe apples and slight peach note, good length. 89

2010 Leroux Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Embazées
Pale lemon yellow. Minerals, apples, light popcorn touch, intense and layered nose, citrus behind. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh and fruity, almost crisp, firmer than nose suggest, long. 92

2011 Chave Hermitage blanc
Pale lemon yellow. Minerals, light honey note, grapefruits, apples, layered nose. Freshish acidity, ripe and rich, minerals, butter note, rich and warm, detailed, long. 92

2010 Chave Hermitage blanc
Towards lemon yellow. Nuts, intense minerals, apples, orange blossoms, almost smoky, vanilla. Freshish acidity, fruity, intense, minerals, rich and ripe, still has focus, long. Warm finish. 94

2009 Chave Hermitage blanc
Pale lemon yellow. Nuts, wax, honey, minerals, smoky, vanilla and tropical nose. Medium acidity, rich, intense, nutty, minerals, warm, alcoholic, big and long. 94

2013 Anne-Marie Schmitt Glintzberg Riesling
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, fruity, peach, light floral notes. Fresh acidity, lively and fruity, leaner and fresh. 87

2013 Heinrich Spindler Forster Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, floral and light peach note in the back. Fresh acidity, fruity, lively, quite crisp, some lemons, fresh. 87

2013 Robert Weil Kiedricher Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, light tropical fruits, subdued minerals, lovely nose. Fresh acidity, fresh and fruity, rounded, elegant, lovely floral note in the finish. 89

2013 Ansgar Clüsserath Steinreich Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Tight, apples, light yeast note, give it air. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh and elegant, lively, minerals, flinty, leaner and focused. 89

2012 Ansgar Clüsserath Trittenheimer Apotheke Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, tight, light floral and a touch of tropical notes on the nose. Fresh acidity, fruity, elegant, lively, nuanced, rounded, good length. 89

2012 Château Prat-Castel
Ruby. Fruity nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, slight herbal touch in the finish. 79

2013 Saladini Pilastri Rosso Piceno BIB
Ruby. Scented, dark berries nose. Fresh acidity, soft tannins, fruity and rounded. 80

2012 Grati Chianti Rufina Villa di Vetrice
Bright ruby. Scented, blueberries and violets nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh red berries, fresh and delicate. 84

2012 Dom D'Aupilhac KA Økologisk Rødvin
Ruby. Dark berries and light nettles note nose. Freshish acidity, soft tannins, fresj and light. 83

2011 Altos R
Ruby. Fruity, blueberries and liquorice nose, light vanilla touch. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, heavier and riper palate, oak and vanilla more up front. 84

2010 Altos Crianza
Ruby. Blue-and blackberries, vanilla, liquorice and light spicy nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, vanilla, woody, smooth mid palate before slightly dry finish. 86

2012 Les Caves des Hautes Côtes Nuiton-Beaunois Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Beaune Grande Cuvée la Dalignière
Pale bright ruby. Light nettles note over red berries, fresh nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, soft red berries fruit, nettles finish. 84

2013 Paul-Henri Thillardon Chénas Les Blémonts
Bright ruby. Red berries, lightly scented and some minerals nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, structured, elegant red berries fruit, textured finish. 86

2010 Château Bibian
Ruby. Red berries, scented, cassis and vanilla nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, slightly scented, fruity fruity for Listrac, structured finish. 87

2008 Sarget de Gruaud Larose
(2nd Ch Gruaud Larose) Ruby. Scented, cassis, light bell peppers nose, slightly fruitier than last bottle. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, leaner, elegant, slightly rustic texture that is polishing off, lovely, classic Médoc, good length. 89

2011 La Gravette de Certan
(2nd Vieux Château Certan) Deepish ruby. Scented, blueberries, some vanilla, rich nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, soft and mellow, ripe and fruity, hedonistic, 100% Merlot for a change, good length. Smashing allready. 89

2010 Château Carbonnieux
Ruby. Scented, cassis, violets, minerals, detailed nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, quite intense for Carbonnieux, ripe, structured, long. 91

1996 Château Saint-Pierre
Ruby. Scented, red berries, anise, liquorice, light floral note nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity but leaner than last bottle. 89

2008 Château Pontet Canet
(Slippes ikke nå men kommer på spesialslippet i desember) Ruby. Scented, cassis, liquorice, detailed, fruity, layered nose, seems to close down. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, tight, bit to dusty palate, not optimal bottle.

2011 Château Haut-Brion
Ruby. Scented, red berries and cassis, vanilla, tobacco notes far back, terracotta, detailed and layered. Fresh acidity, ripe, tannins, rich and fruity, intense, layered, detailed, long finish. 95

2012 E. Pira et Figli Barbera d'Alba
Bright ruby. Fruity, light herbal note and faint anise nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, lovely red fruity and fresh and lively, good length. 87

2010 Proprieta Sperino Uvaggio
Bright ruby. Red berries, scented, lighter nose, light herbal note. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, lively, detailed, fresh, good length. 88

2009 Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino
Bright ruby. Scented, dark fruits, cherries, anise and plums nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, ripe and fruity, sweetish, bit warm. 88

2009 Vajra Barolo Bricco delle Viole
Bright ruby. Scented, red berries, tar, rose hips, ever so slight nail varnish, rich nose.  Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresher than some 09's, redder fruits and fairly lively, long. 90

2009 Proprieta Sperino Lessona
Bright ruby. Red berries, fruity, scented, light anise touch. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, fresh, lively, firm, little bit hollow in the finish, refreshing. 88

2012 Château de Chamirey Mercurey
Bright ruby. Scented, light red berries nose, transparent. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and lively, red berries palate, leaner, fresh and slightly softer Mercurey. 87

2007 Montille Beaune 1er Cru les Gréves
Bright pale ruby. Scented, red berries, leaner nose, very pure and delicate. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, detailed, good length. 89

2007 Montille Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Aux Thorey
Bright pale ruby. Light and almost pale nose, transparent, cool and delicate, scented and nuanced. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and lively, detailed, elegant, transparent, lovely. Some will find it to lean. 90

2010 Montille Pommard 1er Cru Pezerolles
Bright ruby. Scented, elegant nose, bit tighter and firmer nose, detailed and nuanced. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, lively and delicate, nuanced, again a bit tight, long. 92

2010 Montille Pommard 1er Cru Les Grands Epenots
Pale bright ruby. Fuller nose, firmer, detailed, lightly scented, wild strawberries, refined and nuanced, minerals. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and lively, detailed, elegant, nuanced, mouthwatering, again lighter, long. 94

2010 Leroux Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Champeaux
Bright ruby. Red berries, light anise note, ever so slight herbal note, not as scented as last bottle. Quite intense nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, fresh and lively, elegant, detailed, mouthwatering, slight burnt wood note in the finish, long. 92

2010 Chave Saint-Joseph Offerus
Ruby. Rich, fruity, dark berries, ripe nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, fairly fresh, good length. 86

2012 Pierre Gonon Saint-Joseph
Ruby. Scented, red and darker berries, fresh, lovely nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, lively,, good length. 88

2012 Vincent Paris Cornas Granit 60
Ruby. Ripe dark berries, fruity nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, softer texture, fresh and fruity, ripe raspberries, light mineral note in the finish. 88

2011 Clape Cornas
Deep ruby. Rich and fruity, ripe, minerals beneath, dark berries, intense nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and ripe, fruity, intense, slight alcohol note, long. 91

2010 Guigal La Mouline
Deep ruby. Rich, scented, dark berries, intense, layered, liquorice, spices, layered. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and fruity, ripe, detailed and nuanced, layered and long. 96

2010 Guigal La Turque
Bright ruby. Scented, detailed, layered, ripe, fruity, intense, layered, has another dimension. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, lively, deeper, intense, layered, amazing, rich, hefty, very long indeed. 97

2010 Guigal La Landonne
Deep ruby. Scented, rich, intense, layered, floral, violets, minerals, incredibly detailed and another level than last bottle only two days back. Almost Latour like nose with more air. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich, intense, detailed, layered, complex as few, tighter than the other two but shows more behind, very long indeed. 98

2011 Chave Hermitage
Ruby. Scented, dark fruits, pepper, ripe and rich nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, rounded, rich, smooth feel to it, at least after La Landonne, long. 93

2010 Chave Hermitage
Ruby. Rich, intense, ripe, scented, pepper and dark fruits. Big. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, layered, fruity, rich and powerfull with freshness to back it, slightly warm finish. Long. 94

2009 Chave Hermitage
Ruby. Rich, fruity, ripe, big nose, dark fruits and vanilla. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, dark and deep, warm and aøcohol shows a little to well for my palate, dark fruits, long. 91

2012 Selbach-Oster Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spätlese
Pale lemon yellow. Green apples, lemons, minerals nose. Fresh acidity, fresh and fruity, lovely, detailed, elegant, apply finish. 89

2009 Selbach-Oster Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, scented, slight floral note, minerals, detailed nose, bit tight. Fresh acidity, fresh and lively, tighter palate, elegant, nuanced, give it air. 90

2008 Telmo Rodriguez Molino Real
Towards lemon yellow. Apricots, peach and pineapples nose. Freshish acidity in the attack but fresher mid palate, fruity, different. 89

2009 Quinta de la Rosa LBV
Deep ruby. Dark fruits, rich and ripe, some alcohol notes. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich, fruity, soft, sweet, blackberries, ripe, good length. 89

Winetailor September release

Pascal Doquet Grand Cru Le Mesnil Brut *
50% 05, 33% 04 and 17% 03 vintage. Bottles 2006, Deg  27th May 2014. Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, light yeast note nose, slightly fuller nose than earlier blends. Fresh acidity, elegant mousse, fresh and fruity, elegant, lively, more rounded than earlier again on the palate. Long. 91

2013 Pieropan Soave Classico Don Pedro
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, fresh and fruity, elegant nose. Fresh acidity, rounded, elegant, fresh and fruity, light tropical fruit, lovely balance. 86

2011 Pieropan Soave Calvarinho
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, elegant and fruity nose, lighter, detailed. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, elegant, fresh, lovely balance again, slightly fuller finish. 88

2012 Pieropan Soave La Rocca
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, rounder, fuller, apples and light tropical notes nose, one of few layered Soaves. Fresh acidity, fresh and fruity, elegant, somewhat richer, detailed and elegant. Long. 90

2013 Niepoort Fabelaktig Branco
Pale lemon yellow. Fruity, apples and light peach note. Freshish acidity, ripe and fruity, fresh, good length. 85

2013 Reverdy Sancerre
Pale lemon yellow. Unripe apples, gooseberries and light cats pie nose. Fresh acidity, fresh and leaner, gooseberries finish. 85

2011 Maison Roche de Bellene Chassagne-Montrachet Vieilles Vignes
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, light butter and creamy nose. Fresh acidity, fresh and rounded, lively, fruity, good length. 88

2011 Maison de Roche de Bellene Puligny-Montrachet Vieilles Vignes
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, citrus, floral, has another level on the nose. Fresh acidity, lively, fresh and fruity, detailed, citrus, lovely balance, good length. 89

2012 Michel Juillot Cuvée Juliette Chardonnay
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, light and fruity nose. Fresh acidity, rounded and fruity, elegant. 85

2012 Michel Juillot Cuvée Pierre Pinot Noir
Bright ruby. Scented red berries nose, elegant. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh, easy going but clean. 85

2010 Michel Juillot Mercurey Clos Tonnerre
Bright ruby. Red berries, scented, light and detailed nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh red berries, lively, elegant and fresh. 87

2013 Bertani Valpolicella Villa Novare
Ruby. Scented, red berries, fruity nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity. 83

2011 Bertani Ripasso
Ruby. Rich, fruity, rounded nose. Freshish acidity, ripe and fruity, rounded, slightly drier finish than most. If you would like a more proper Ripasso, this is one of them. 85

2010 Bertani Secco Bertani Vintage Edition
Ruby. Leather, anise, cherries, plums and tobacco nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, ripe and fruity, leaner finish, bit firmer finish, good length. 87

2012 Lavradores De Faittoria Douro Red
(Slippes i november) Ruby. Fruity and scented nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, fresh finish. 82

2012 Niepoort Fabelaktig
Deep ruby. Red berries, fruity, light herbal note far back. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, fresh. 84

2011 Niepoort Vertente
Ruby. Dark berries, rich and fruity nose, liquorice. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, fresh, anise and blackberries finish. 86

2009 Niepoort Batuta
Deep ruby. Rich, deep nose, dark berries, spices, coffee, intense nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, intense, rich and deep, long. 90

2010 Niepoort Charmes
Ruby. Red berries, some warm fruits, slight nettle note far back. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, lively, almost creamy texture, long. 90

2009 Lindes de Remelluri
Ruby. Ripe fruits, ripe blueberries and liquorice nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, ripe and fruity, richer Rioja. 85

2008 Pintia
Towards opaque. Rich, alcoholic, ripe and sweet nose, intense, some figs and plums behind. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and fruity, intense, chocolate and dark berries. 89

2011 Roc de Cambes
Deep ruby. Rich, fruity, ripe cassis and blueberries nose, floral and scented, intense. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rich, intense, rounded, long. 90

2011 Saint-Prefert Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Ruby. Red berries, rose hips, strawberry jam and anise nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, somewhat leaner, fairly fresh, slightly warm finish. Warm fruit. 89

2010 Lucien le Moine Châteauneuf-du-Pape Omnia
Deep ruby. Ripe, rich, fruity, layered, liquorice, chocolate and dark berries. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins. Rich, sweet, fruity, ripe, blueberries, spices, bit warm. 89

2009 Lucien le Moine Châteauneuf-du-Pape Arioso
Ruby. Rich, intense, fruity, ripe nose, some alcohol high notes. Fresh acidity, ripe and fruity, red and darker berries, nuanced even in this rich state, more nuanced than last time I tasted it. Big and not for me, but impressive Neuf. 92

2010 Pieropan Amarone della Valpolicella
Ruby. Coffee, rich and fruity nose, intense nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and fruity but balanced, intense, clean fruit, warm finish. Amarone rarely gets more balanced than this. 88

2011 Niepoort Vintage Bioma
Opaque. Rich, intense nose, dark berries, big and compact. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, ripe, sweet fruits, layered, intense, complex, needs lots of cellaring to show everything but smacking already, long. 95

September release from Fondberg

Gruhier Cremant de Bourgogne Rosé
Pale red, small bubbles. Light red berries and yellow fruits nose. Fresh acidity, elegant mousse, rounded and kind, easy going but not boring. 82

2014 Fairview Lands End Sauvignon Blanc
Watery lemon yellow. Gooseberries and cats pie nose, lean. Fresh acidity, rounded and fruity, leaner. 80

2013 Dreissigacker Estate Riesling
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, light grapefruit note. Fresh acidity, fruity, elegant, fresh, could be more nuanced. 85

2013 Karl Schaefer Riesling trocken
Pale lemon yellow. Yellow ripe apples and light peach note nose. Fresh acidity, rounded, sweetish even if dry at 3 g.rs, fruity, lemons finish. 85

2013 Karl Schaefer Riesling Sonnentropf Feinherb
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, light pears and peach note nose. Fresh acidity, lively and fresh, fruity, green apples, fresh finish. 88

2013 Karl Schaefer Riesling Gerümpel Erste Lage
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, minerals, fruity, grapefruits, subdued minerals and some floral notes. Fresh acidity, rounded, fruity, not quite as exciting palate as nose, good length. 88

2013 Karl Schaefer Riesling Herrenberg GG
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, citrus, light orange blossoms nose, subdued minerals. Fresh acidity, rounded and fruity, fresh but lacks some nuances abd details, fresh green apply finish. 89

2013 Tasca d'Almerita Grillo Cavallo Delle Fate
Pale lemon yellow. Fruity if leaner nose, some minerals and tropical notes, lilies note. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, little bit of a ball. 85

2012 Vacheron Sancerre Les Romains
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, fruity, rounded nose, not showing that much, some floral notes. Fresh acidity, fruity, rounded, crisp mid palate before more rounded finish, apples and citrus, good length. 88

2012 Billaud-Simon Chablis Tete d'Or
Pale lemon yellow. Apples, chalk, fruity nose, leaner, lightly scented. Fresha cidity, fruity, rounded,f resh, lemons and yellow apples, elegant. 87

2013 Domaine Gayda Figure Libre Macabeo
Pale lemon yellow. Fruity, scented, floral nose. Freshish acidity, fruity, lively, fresh, bit short. 84

2009 Garcia Carrion Castillo San Simon Reserva
Ruby. Easy and fruity nose. Lightly spicy. Fresh acidity, ripe soft tannins, fresh and fruity. 80

2013 Garcia Carrion Antaño Cosecha
Ruby. Red and blueberries nose. Fresh acidity, soft tannins, fresh and fruity. 80

2013 Garcia Carrion Castillo de Aza
Ruby. Dark berries, fruity, liquorice and slight vanilla note nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rounded, fresh. 82

2012 Champy Pommard Vieilles Vignes
Ruby. Scented, red berries, some vanilla and lightly dusty wood notes. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, structured and needs time with the wood, has an elegant scented tone that should get to live it's life without the barrel notes. 85

2013 Paul Max Mas de Mas
Ruby. Fruity and ripe nose. Freshish acidity, soft tannins, light herbal note, fresh. 81

2012 Gaillard Cornas
Deepish ruby. Scented, dark berries, fruity and rich, spicy and nuanced nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, lively, spicy finish. 89

2012 Tasca d'Almerita Regaleali Rosso
Ruby. Red and darker berries, herbs nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity and soft texture. 84

2012 Tasca d'Almerita Lamuri Nero d'Avola
Ruby. Dark fruits, ripe, some dried fruits and light rubber note. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresher palate, red and blueberries, good length. 86

2011 Salcheto Vino Nobile de Montepulciano
Ruby. Dried fruits, blackberries, leather and anise nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, fairly lively even if heavy textured as VNM often is. 88

2010 Piccini Memoro Annata
Deep ruby. Heavy nose of ripe dark fruits and liquorice. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, big and alcoholic, liquorice and dark berries behind. 85

2012 Farina Ripasso Superiore
Deepish ruby. Red and darker berries, herbs and almost salty note nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, soft and fruity with herbal character, good length. 84

2012 Farina Ripasso Montecorna
Deepish ruby. Ripe blueberries jam nose. Freshish acidity, soft structure, ripe, soft and sweet. 83

2010 Regio Cantina Donpa Aglianico del Vulture
Ruby. Rich, big and fruity, some dried fruits, alcohol and liquorice, almost VA note, mints. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, intense but not full bodied, eucalyptus, barrel notes, structured. 87

2013 Shingleback Red Knot
Ruby. Dark berries, fruity and ripe nose. Freshish acidity, ripe tannins, rich and warm, fruity. 83

2013 Bellingham The Bernard Series Bush Wines Pinotage
Ruby. Ripe, rich nose, dark fruits, liquorice, light mint note nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fresh and fruity, lively, ripe but quite elegant for Pinotage, little bit warm. (14). 87

2011 Seghesio Zinfandel
Ruby. Ripe, rich and fruity nose, dark berries, anise and vanilla. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and fruity, good length. 87

2011 Seghesio Zinfandel Rockpile
Ruby. Red fruits, more nuances, more details, ripe and lightly scented nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, fruity, rich and rounded, slightly warm palate, spicy finish, good length. 88

2011 Seghesio Zinfandel Old Wine
Deep ruby. Ripe, rich, big nose, alcohol, liquorice and plums. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich, big alcoholic, ripe, sweet, fresher finish. 88

2011 Seghesio Zinfandel Home Ranch
Ruby. Ripe, big and fruity, liquorice, alcohol nose. Fresh acidity, ripe tannins, rich and sweet, but not full bodied, ripe and warm finish. 88

Bellingham Shiraz Viognier 1,5 litre BIB
Ruby. Ripe and fruity nose, dark chocolate. Freshish acidity, ripe and sweet. 81


The following two wines will not be released.
2011 Seghesio Russian river Valley Arneis
Light rubber note, some floral notes, fruity and straight forward. 83

2011 Seghesio Alexander Valley Barbera
 Ripe, fruity, dark berries, soft and sweet. 83