EACH WEEK WE GENERALLY TASTE 7-9 DIFFERENT WINES
LISTED BELOW ARE SOME OF THE WINES WE TASTED IN THE PREVIOUS WEEKSVISIT OUR CRITIC'S CHOICE PAGE TO SEE THE REVIEWS
ON MANY OF THE WINES FROM OUR PREVIOUS TASTINGS
December 26 & December 27, 2003 Harrison Sauvignon Blanc 2002Grosset Reisling 2002 Polish Hills
93 pt. rating in the Wine Spectator Buckleys 2001 Shiraz Atalon 1999 Merlot
91 pt. rated wine Chateau Potelle Syrah 2001 Hanenhof Estate Meritage Lake Chalice Cabernet Sauvignon 1999
December 17 to December 20, 2003
NV Lanson Brut Black Label
"Its bouquet manages to be both fresh and mature at once, with caramel, matchstick and water-cracker flavors in full force
(there's a little herb here, too). Medium-weight with good acidity, the palate offers a sexy blend of caramel, toast, citrus and
mealy-yeasty notes. Finishing long and tangy, this is a handsome, classy Champagne that, as one panelist said, "actually has something going on." 90 Points - Wine Enthusiast, December 15, 2001. NV Drappier Rose Brut
Very fine bubbles. Quite a deep rose pink. Emerging notes of yeastiness, but mostly fresh, soft strawberry fruit on the
nose. Sweet attack on the palate and a creamy mousse. There's a lovely tart raspberry freshness, but this is generous in style offering off-dry easy drinking, yet with a little bit of firmness and authority.
1996 Duval Leroy Brut
"
Totally seductive. This lush, opulent '96 has the texture of cashmere wrapped around vanilla bean, citrus, honey and
coffee notes, with an aftertaste of grilled hazelnut. Elegant, medium-bodied and sophisticated, with a chameleon character and endless appeal. Drink now through 2012. 1,500 cases made." 94 pts Wine Spectator, Oct-03.
Chateau St. George Trilogie 19982001 Lyeth Merlot
Bright red cherries and raspberries cascade across the senses. Medium to full-bodied, fruity and complex. A great value. 1998 Chateau St George Trilogie
The premium bottling of this estate, made only in better vintages from the best grapes. All merlot and all new oak barrels. A
red velvet color, almost a light maroon; the nose shows alcohol with a background of fruit; tannins are upfront and
aggressive, fruits are mature, bold and strong; a hint of baked blackberry pie, but not sweet; a muscular wine with strength mixed with a subtle elegance.
2000 Gary Farrell Zinfandel Maple Vineyard
An exotic, bold and rather forward style, with its well-extracted, ripe, spicy blackberry fruit aromas making quite an early
statement. Never looses focus on the keen balance between its assertive fruit flavors, lavish oak components and
supporting tannins. Wonderful richness in its long, full finish, where its tannins and freshening acidity bring a sense of
stature and structure. Delicious as a youngster but well suited for several years of careful cellaring. For many years the Maple Vineyard was one of the three primary components in Ridge Winery's Lytton Springs Zinfandel. 1999 Viu 1 Malbec
The first premium wine of Viu Manent, from century old vines of Malbec in the valley of Colchagua, Chile. Begins with an
exuberant violet color, practically impenetrable to light, and very dense legs that dye the glass with delicate shades of
purple. The nose features intense, jammy, and integrated aromas of black blackberries and cherries, with notes of coffee,
chocolate and delicate touches of toasted oak. In the mouth the wine shows all its power, with excellent acidity and
incredible concentration. Very full bodied and framed with generous and fine tannins from grapes harvested fully ripe. The
aftertaste is intense, aromatic, and long, and echos all the flavors. A monumental wine with immense potential, but difficult to resist now even knowing how much it will improve.
2001 Tualatin Sparkling Muscat
A very complex fruit bowl that is light bodied, faintly sweet, low in alcohol, and mouthwateringly delicious, with a touch of spritz.
December 10 to December 13, 2003
This week's tasting was an Italian tasting of wines that are predominantly available in restaurants. Dr. Herb Moselle, proprietor of "Wines For Everyone" hosted this event.Proseco Riva della Chiesa
This sparkling white wine is crisp and appley and distinctly yeasty but dry. Picollo Gavi di Gavi Rughe 2002
The nose on this very well made wine is all about yellow peaches and fruit tarts. Fills your mouth with tangerine and lemon, and a note of grapefruit rind on the finish.
Di Leonardo Father's Eyes Bianco 2002
Toast, vanilla, green apple and nectarine highlight this blend of 50% Tocai and equal parts Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. Shows nectarine and white peach flavors with a lovely touch of butter in the finish. Annunziata Barbera 2000
Aromas of rose, vanilla and well-extracted dark fruit lead to a full mouth feel and flavors of cherry and plum. Valpanteena Valpolicella Superiore 2001
Deep hued with aromas of black cherry and cedar. Good grip, flavors of cherry and red plum. Bricco Dolcetto d'Alba DOC 2001
Deep ruby purple. Nose of cedar,red fruit and tobacco. Well structured with flavors of cherry, red current and hints of
cranberry and black tea. Very dry, with a long, satisfying finish. Ambrosini Riflesso Antico 2000 Montepulciano d'Abrruzzo
A deep, inky colored wine showing a bold nose of blackberry and cedar. The full-bodied mouth is characterized by serious
tannins and rich, multi-layered flavors of black fruit, leather and chocolate. Cascina Ballaria Bussia Barolo 1999
A powerful nose of mushroom, truffles, black raspberry, cocoa and leather. Full, rich and complex flavors of dark fruit, saddle leather and mushrooms.
Valpanteena Falasco Amorone 1999
Deep, dark hued: meaty, leather and molasses on the nose. Beautiful mouthfeel with flavors of raisins and dark red fruit.
December 4 to December 6, 2003
This week's wine tasting featured South African wines from Mr. Neil Strachan's portfolio . We tasted several white wines, three Pinotages, three Merlots and the Avontuur "Above Royalty", a
botrytis late harvest Riesling.
November 19 to November 22, 2003 Prosecco Riva della Chiesa Italy
Prosecco is a white-wine grape that's grown primarily in the eastern part of Italy's Veneto region. Prosecco's made into lightly sparkling (frizzante), fully sparkling (spumante), and still wines. Its fine reputation, however, comes from the
sparkling versions. The wines are crisp
and appley and, though they can be sweet, are more often found dry
. This prosecco has a distinctly yeasty flavor. Elena Walch " Beyond The Clouds" 2000 Italy
A superb wine, blending Gewurztraminer and Chardonnay. Bright, deep yellow. A complex interplay of floral and fruit
aromas in the nose. The fruit aromas follow through on to the palate, supported by richness, concentration, firm but mild
acidity, with a hint of vanilla. An exciting wine which bodes well for the future. Rated Tre Bicchieri in Italy's foremost wine publication. Kiona Vivacious Vicky Washington State
Winemaker Scott Williams, who is the son of the founder John Williams, has earned tremendous accolades for his
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot bottlings as well as his unbelievable dessert wines. Now they have come out with a
couple of wines to compete in the "suckin'" category of soft, juicy, every day wines. To show the frivolous side of these
wines he named them for his wife, Vicky, and created a whimsical label. The shock is the wine inside the bottle is good, real
good. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Lemberger, Syrah and Pinot Noir. A fascinating Aussie-styled blend, with
richness and tons of spicy fruit, perfect finish and affordable. It is thick, somewhat grapey and absolutely packed with blueberry, black raspberry and mulling spice flavors.
Buckeley's Shiraz 2001 Australia
"A stunning value. A 100% Shiraz that has been given a touch of French oak aging. It possesses a dark ruby/purple color
in addition to copious quantities of blackberry and cassis fruit intermixed with subtle undertones of vanilla and licorice.
Medium to full-bodied and fruity, with supple tannin as well as low acidity, it is the finest Shiraz yet produced by
Buckley's. Consume it over the next 2-3 years." 89 Points. Robert M. Parker, Jr.'s, The Wine Advocate, Issue 148. Andrew Harris Cabernet Reserve 1999 Australia
Classic Australian. Dark in color, with a sweet nose common in Australian Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Combines mint, cassis, earth, and tannin, while remaining flavorful and tasty.
2000 Le Baron de Brane, Margaux
Rich, complex nose. Powerful flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon, with cassis. Young and spiky. A good example of a wine whose components show great power, where smoothness and integration will come with more age. Second wine of
Chateau Brane-Cantenac. In superb vintages, the second wines are often better than the first wine in lesser vintages. Parker 89-91. Columbia Crest Reserve 2000 Washington State
Columbia Crest's vineyards straddle the 46th (north) parallel, as do the regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy. The area's
affinity for Bordeaux varietals is uncontestable-and this year's reserve offering is another in a string of successful vintages
of reserve cab. Classic cab aromas of cassis and black cherry are enclosed within a velvety smooth framework with only a
hint of tannin. Major notes of toasty wood add an additional element of sweet richness to the palate. Wine Spectator 93. Chateau Suduiraut Sauterne 1998 France
Lovely crème brulée nose with attractive smoky notes. Nice full, rich palate with a rich texture, spicy complexity and nice
acidity. There are also brown sugar and apricot notes. Impressive stuff. Very good/excellent. Wine Spectator 91-94.
November 12 to November 15, 2003
Feudo Arancio Grillo 2002
Set in the center of an old rural village, the Feudo Arancio winery is an ultra modern Facility boasting state-of-the-art
equipment. This 100% Grillo, a local grape variety, is vinified in stainless steel to emphasize fruit and freshness. It nose
presents a pleasant fragrance of green tea. In the mouth it starts with fruity notes and evolves to a dry, crisp, lemony finish. A classic, refreshing, warm weather wine.
Rincon Privado San Rafael Malbec 1999
This is a complex wine that combines characteristic aromas and fruity flavors. Bright ruby hue and delicate aroma. This
elegant varietal presents notes of black cherry and blackberry flavors with a pleasant interplay between oak and sweet tannins. Rotllan Torra Priorat 1997 Reserva
The wine, composed of cabernet, grenache and carignan are full-bodied with great richness and intensity typical of El Priorat. Excellent Value!
Hahn Estate Syrah 2001
This wine is very fragrant, exhibiting classic raspberry fruit and fresh, cracked black pepper on the nose. The oak is kept
to a minimum to preserve the fresh, forward fruit. Extreme depth in the palate, with lush, sweet raspberry and blueberry
flavors. Great length thanks to the firm backbone of acidity and tannins. A mouth-filling wine overall, this is a fabulous
alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon, and will pair well with any dish structured for an intense red wine. Coppola Diamond Series Zinfandel 2001
The Francis Coppola Diamond Series.Zinfandel is made to be as gregarious and opulent as one would expect from this
variety. As with all of our Diamond Series wines, the goal is to produce wines that have concentrated varietal character
with wonderful flavor and texture. Zinfandel is one of the earliest varieties planted in California, and one of the most
popular. Wines made from the Zinfandel grape can vary greatly in style. It can produce very dense, inky wines when
grown on the hillsides along the coast range and delicious, forward and approachable wines when grown on fertile soils.
This is a blend of these two styles, providing a great glass of serious Zinfandel flavor with the drinkability of the variety. Pirramimma Petite Verdot 1999
Geoff is a winemaker with a world perspective. He is graduate of the Charles Sturt University and studied in France where
his strong interest in the classic Bordeaux grape variety, Petit Verdot, first developed. Geoff planted a small trial area of
Petit Verdot in 1983 which has since expanded to over 10 hectares of mature vines. His Petit Verdot vintages are award
winning, prompting the prestigious European wine magazine "WeinWisser" to ask.... "is there any better Petit Verdot in the world...?"
November 5 to November 8, 2003
Arrowood Grand Archer Chardonnay 2000
Arrowood Grand Archer 2000 Chardonnay is made from carefully selected grapes from Sonoma County's Russian River
and Alexander Valleys. The wonderfully ripe, rich fruit from the warmer Alexander Valley is blended and balanced with the
crisp, more aromatic tropical fruit flavors of the cooler Russian River Valley. The result is a vibrant fruit experience for the
nose and palate. The 2000 Chardonnay features forward fruit flavors and a rich, alanced mouthfeel. Aromatics include
pear, apricot and lemon, with hints of tropical fruit and spice. Flavors are bright with rich varietal character and spice notes
in the lingering toasty finish. The wine was 100% barrel fermented to add creaminess and a silky texture. Preston Merlot "Reserve" 1999
This 100% 1999 Merlot 'Reserve' was aged in new French oak and new American oak barrels for 18 months. Its fragrance
is of leather and tobacco and it has flavors of cherries, black licorice and spice. This Merlot has strong tannins with a long finish.
Chateau du Grand Barrail "Revelation" Premieres Cotes de Blaye 2000
Thanks to winemaker Denis LaFon's painstaking efforts of pruning and crop thinning, this beautiful wine is crafted entirely
from vines that are 30 to 40 years old. Excess leaves are also removed from the vines to provide optimum ventilation for the
grapes and to avoid any rotting. Made From 65% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Malbec hand harvested grapes, traditionally vinified under controlled temperatures, and pumped over twice a day throughout the fermentation
process. Once the vinification has been completed, the wine is aged in new French oak barrels for 12 months. It is released
from the cellar two years after the harvest in heavy, numbered bottles. It has an intense bouquet of red fruit and the taste is soft and fruity with a long finish. This wine ages well.
Bookwalter MV Lot 15 Red Wine
This largely Bordeaux blend with a dose of Syrah is distinctly influenced by a higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon.
The wine approaches you with very dense and saturated aromas of sweet cedar, licorice, blackberry, spices and a touch of
smokiness. Broad flavors of ripe plums, figs, cherries and dark chocolate are followed by a full, yet soft and lengthy finish. John's Blend Cabernet Sauvignon 1999
This wine is
made by John Glaetzer, the chief winemaker at Wolf Blass since '76 and winner of 4 Jimmy Watson Trophies. It is a full-blown, super-ripe Cabernet aged in 100% new American and French oak for 18 months. While it is huge, it's
flavor profile is more reminiscent of Cabernets from California in vintages like '74. Aromas of chocolate with hints of mint
and a bit of oak in the background, lead to a deep, full-bodied, cabernet of immense proportions. Blackberry, cassis, and
black-cherry flood the palate. The intense fruit is balanced out impeccably with perfect acidity and big tannins. This
blockbuster drinks is still quite young, but absolutely delicious develop A profound example of Australian Cabernet .
October 29 to November 01, 2003
Veuve Clicquot Demi-Sec
Creamy, with a touch of sweetness. Veuve Demi-Sec (the classic accompaniment to dessert) is equally pleasing as an
apéritif. This stylish blend is evocative of the wine Madame Clicquot herself produced in the early 19th century. Wonderful with fruit and cream-based desserts such as tarts, mousse and especially crème brûlée.
Elyse Morisoli Zinfandel 2001
In 1987, the owners started Elyse Wines with 286 cases of Zinfandel from the Morisoli Vineyard, which is still one of their
primary fruit sources. For a decade they were nomads, buying grapes and crushing at various custom crush facilities, and
then in1997, they finally bought a small winery on Hoffman Lane. The 2001 Morisoli Zinfandel is deep ruby purple in color,
full bodied, and lavishly textured. It opens with aromas of black currants and jammy raspberries; and finishes with hints of
kirsch. This wine is complex yet seamless across the palate with explosive reminders of glycerin and extract and a smoky
oak finish. These old vines keep cranking out great wine year after year. The Morisoli Zinfandel is always my favorite
wine! The 2001 Morisoli Zinfandel will cellar well for the next 5 – 12 years and will go with virtually any good food……or on its own! Mischa Shiraz 2000
Shiraz is one of the best red wine varietals grown South Africa. A smooth, balanced nose with blackberry and plum. The
mouth is a luxurious combination of high acidity, medium tannins, and rich fruit, with a smooth texture accented by new oak. Should last and improve for at least six years.
Elyse Rutherford Petite Sirah 2001
The 2001 Rutherford Petite Sirah is deep, dark purple in color and amazingly textured with over-the-top concentration of
fruit flavors. Lush aromas of wild blackberries, cherries and plum are interwoven with licorice, black pepper and hints of
wild game. This wine has unique jammy ripeness with long, soft tannins and a lingering coffee, mocha oak finish. Drink now and over the
next 10 to 12 years.
Steven Kent Cabernet Reserve 2000
The 2000 vintage is extremely limited, yielding only 950 cases. Characterized by exceedingly dark color and complex aromas
of cassis, bittersweet chocolate, and cigar-box, this opulent and tannic wine proves to be one of the winery's finest
Cabernets. While needing 3-5 years of bottle age before it is truly ready to drink, this wine will be drinking beautifully 20
years from now. Each of the winery's wines is made in very limited quantity using only the best fruit and cooperage.
Availability of the winery's wines is extremely limited. When they are available in the broad market, the wines of The Steven Kent Winery can be found in the finest restaurants and wine shops.
Lancaster Cabernet Reserve 1999
The
1999 Lancaster is a complex, layered wine, revealing concentrated currant and black plum notes, a graceful texture and
a polished finish. Lancaster Estate is dedicated to the creation of remarkable red wines that are entirely vintage and estate
reflective. Situated in the southern Alexander Valley at the convergence of the Knights Valley and Chalk Hill appellations,
Lancaster Estate resides in a unique environment suited for Cabernet family varietals. With over 30 harvests in both
hemispheres, winemaker David Elliott has made wine around the world, from Bordeaux to New Zealand, Australia and
California. At Lancaster, his outlook is entirely estate focused, and reflects his complete control of the wine from vineyard
to bottle. "I don't have a preconceived formula for winemaking. The beauty of our wine is that the combination of our
estate grown lots maximizes the individuality of the vintage and makes a very personal statement each year." — Dave Elliott
October 22 to October 25, 2003
McManis Family Vineyards Releases 2002 Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is the fastest growing white wine in the U.S. McManis Family Vineyards is pleased to announce the release
of their 2002 McManis Family Vineyards Pinot Grigio. This Pinot Grigio is a light, crisp wine that will go great with food and is a great alternative to Chardonnay.
Chateau Potelle Sauvignon Blanc 2002 Napa
Château Potelle has one goal - to make wines that respect the unique personality that nature and terroir without excessive
manipulation or technical influence in the cellar. Winemaking is geared to promote and enhance the differences of soils
and microclimates, not to standardize them. Because Château Potelle is an artisanal winery, winemaking is an art. The 2000
Sauvignon Blanc exemplifies all the qualities that have earned Château Potelle its reputation for greatness. Balance,
elegance and consistency of this delicate, fruity and complex wine are the hallmarks of the talents of Owner/Winemaker Marketta Fourmeaux. Rotllan Torra Priorat 1997 Reserva
The wine, composed of cabernet, grenache and carignan are full-bodied with great richness and intensity typical of El Priorat.
Bookwalter MV Lot 15
This largely Bordeaux blend with a dose of Syrah is distinctly influenced by a higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon.
The wine approaches you with very dense and saturated aromas of sweet cedar, licorice, blackberry, spices and a touch of
smokiness. Broad flavors of ripe plums, figs, cherries and dark chocolate are followed by a full, yet soft and lengthy finish. Optimal drinkability 2004 -2008.
Chateau Carsin 2000
Fermentations for Merlot were carried out in rotating vinimatic tanks. The Cabernets were fermented in traditional-style
stainless steel red fermentation tanks. Specially selected yeast strains were used and the fermentation temperatures were
generally lower than usual - reaching only 25 degrees Celcius at the end of fermentation. After alcoholic fermentation the
wines were kept in contact with their skins for an average of 2 weeks before pressing. The malolactic fermentation was
conducted in tank. The wine was matured for 12 months in oak barrels before bottling in January 2001. Red-berry fruit
characters in harmony with light vanillin oak characterise the nose of this wine. The palate is round and sturctured, with
lingering fruit flavours. The wine has soft oak tannins on the finish. The tannins will soften over the next 4 to 5 years and
the wine will become more complex as it develops. Ideal serving temperature is 18 degrees Celsius. McManis Family Vineyards 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
A Double Gold Winner at San Francisco International Wine Competition! The first gold medal to be awarded to McManis
Family Vineyards has arrived with a big splash! The San Francisco International Wine Competition was held June 22-23
and is widely regarded as the most prestigious competition in California. The McManis Family Vineyards 2001 Cabernet
Sauvignon was awarded not just a Gold Medal, but a Double Gold Medal! This means that each judge on the panel
individually judged the wine to be a Gold Medal wine. There were only 82 Double Gold Medal winners in the 3800+ entry competition.
October 15 to October 18, 2003
Di Lenardo Pinot Grigio 2002
Aromas of peaches, melon and apples. Good mouthfeel and weight. A touch of almond on the finish. This is a very nice wine and a lot of Pinot Grigio for the money.
Shepherds Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Herbal aromas, with nectarine and grass, carry onto the palate, picking up grapefruit citrus notes. Crisp and flinty enough in the mouth, it finishes with some suggestions of spicy nutmeg.
Sicilia Rosso
Smoky earthy wine, tannic and black, glint of bright grenadine flavor in the midst of all the dark berry flavors and vegetal
tannins. Grapes: 90% Nero d'Avola, 10% other indigenous grapes. 7 Deadly Zins 2001
Grand Champion 2003 Los Angeles International Wine Competition. A Big Zinfandel. Taste the complex, smooth and
delicious Zinfandel that judges called, "soft, with supple pepper and licorice-clove notes. A sinful marriage of deep,
brambly blackberries and cherries. The finish brings hints of rich vanilla and cocoa. Awesome." Andrew Harris Shiraz Reserve 99
The final blending of this wine showed a wide spectrum of aromas and flavours that eventually married to give a wine of
strong interest. Components show everything from elegant pepperiness to rich spice-like characters, which supported by maturation in American oak, have combined to give a multi-faceted wine of great promise. Andrew Harris 1999 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
This is one of the most outstanding examples of Cabernet Sauvignon yet released by Andrew Harris Vineyards. The aroma
is typically minty Cabernet with layers of French oak that adds to the complexity. Soft rich cabernet flavours fill the mouth
giving good persistence. The maturation in French oak barrels has added further complexing elements so that the palate is well structured and will be rewarding for man years.
Preston Cabernet Reserve 2000
75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, and 4% Cabernet Franc. It was aged in new American oak barrels for 17 months.
The blending of grapes makes for an incredibly smooth wine, yet full-bodied with lots of fruit flavors.
October 8 to October 11, 2003
This week was the second in a series of Neil Strachan's South African varietal tastings. White Wines
Simonsvlei Chardonnay 2000
Avontuur Chardonnay 2000
Chamonix Chardonnay 1998
Viljoensdrift Chardonnay 2001
Red Wines
Slaley Shiraz 2000
Bushman's Creek Shiraz 1998
Bredell Shiraz 1999
Allesverloren Shiraz 1999
Broken Stone Shiraz 2001
Viljoensdrift Shiraz 2001
October 2 to October 4, 2003
Viljoensdrift Chenin Blanc 2001
Nice peach notes,good mouthfeel and texture, with a spicy and dry finish.
Huia Sauvignon Blanc 2002
A great style of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. The fruit is clear, complex, tasty, and appealing. A fruit salad of
gooseberry, green apple, and lime, nicely blended with an undercurrent of young, juicy grass. Refreshing and long. Steele Catfish Zinfandel 1999
A warm fermentation followed by a year in American Oak barrels is the regime for this wine. The flavor profile of Catfish is
always delicate. Some people liken it to Pinot Noir. The hearty and rustic flavors typical of old vine Zinfandel grown in a
warm area are absent. Instead there is cherry fruit, a touch of bramble, and a hint of the red dusty soil. This can be
attributed to both the growing conditions of Lake County and the high percentage of other varieties that are planted in the vineyard. Shooting Star Syrah 2000
This is a very robust and intense style of Syrah. The tannins are firm and chalky, the flavor is of crushed black fruits, and
the aroma has the dusty character, which is a classic Terroir for Syrah. Well worth cellaring, this wine will reward someone patient enough to wait a few years to drink it.
Jacob's Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2000
This premium full-bodied wine displaysintense berry and cassis characters, subtle integration of vanillin tannins imparted from French oak maturation, through to a smooth finish.
Rutz Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Napa 1991
Dark in color, deep in flavor, the 1991 Rutz Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon is both full and subtle. Plum purple to the eye, this
engaging wine presents aromas of cassis, cedar, and olive. Currant, blackberry, and chocolate flavors balance the soft
tannins and rich vanilla character contributed by 28 months aging in French oak. The wine's harmony extends into a
luscious finish. Very appealing at the time of release, it will also reward the collector who cellars fine wines.
September 10 to September 13, 2003
We had a special wine tasting this week presented by Dr. Herb Moselle owner of Wine 4 Everyone. Dr. Moselle imports wine from Italy and this week was the premier showing of these new Italian wines. Dr.
Moselle and Jim Laughren were here all four nights to answer and introduce these new discoveries.Cantarutti Canto 2001
A blend of Tocai, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Bianco. Lots of spicy, floral wood notes in the nose, soft flavors and a good finish. La Cappuccina San Brizio Soave 2002
Pale yellow with hints of citrus, melon and apple on the nose. Very good acidity with flavors of lemon and apple and just a
touch of creaminess on the finish. Di Lenardo Pinot Grigio 2002
Aromas of peaches, melon and apples. Good mouthfeel and weight. A touch of almond on the finish. This is a very nice wine and a lot of Pinot Grigio for the money.
Cantina Covento Muri Gries Weiss Bianco Abtei 2000
70% Pinot Bianco, 25% Chardonnay & 5% Pinot Grigio, spends one year in new French oak. Features a complex nose that follows in the mouth with flavors of lemon curd, apples and toasty oak. Complex and delicious.
Pervini Accademia dei Racemi: Archidamo Primitivo DOC 2001 (Puglia)
Plum, black fruit and cigar box nose. Good structure and tannins, framing a mouth of black cherry and raspberry flavors. Good, medium long finish. Excellent value.
Rocche Costamagna Annunziata Barbera 2000 (Piedmont)
Aromas of rose, vanilla and well-extracted dark fruit lead to a full mouthfeel and flavors of cherry and plum. A bit rustic, but well-balanced and quite delicious. Excellent with food.
Valpantena Valpolicella Superiore 2001 (Veneto)
Deep hued with aromas of black cherry and cedar. Good grip, flavors of cherry and red plum. Nice, very satisfying finish. Primosec Riserva Metamorfosis 2001(Friuli)
A complex nose of black currant, cherry and green peppers, this luscious blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, & Cabernet
Sauvignon is fruity, well-structured and well-balanced, displaying cassis, plum and black cherry . Long finish. Excellent! La Sala Campo All'Albero 1998 (Tuscany)
"Super Tuscan" 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Sangiovese. From the all-female winery of La Sala. Beautiful "cab"
aromas of black fruit and cassis with notes of strawberry. Wonderful flavors of blackberry, black cherry, cherry, cassis and leather.
September 4 to September 6, 2003
Leonard Kreusch Peisporter Auslese '01
Medium sweet, the Kreusch Auslese is a refreshing treat when served chilled.
Pirramimma Petit Verdot 1999
This wine show great depth of colour, lifted spicy violet and rose petal aromas, and intense berry characters on the palate.
Enjoy now or cellar carefully for 5 to 8 years. Researched for eleven years before the release of the first vintage in 1994,
the Pirramimma Petit Verdot vineyard was the first and is now the largest in Australia. Pirramimma Petit Verdot has won 28
show medals and has the enviable reputation of being the best Petit Verdot in Australia. Petit Verdot vintages are award
winning, prompting the prestigious European wine magazine "WeinWisser" to ask.... "is there any better Petit Verdot in the world...?" Marietta Cellars Syrah 2001
The 2000 is a much more tightly knit wine, deep dark ruby in color with much firmer edges. It shows lots of structure with
a lush black fruit center held in place with enough tanning and acid to allow this wine to keep for a decade. Spicy sweet oak is evident but not over powering.
Godwin Family Reserve Moss Oak Vineyard 1999 Meritage
The San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition Gold Medal Winner 2003. Godwin Family Vineyards is the producer of
'Moss Oak' an ultra-premium red wine comprised of grapes grown on the famed Moss Oak Ranch vineyard in Alexander
Valley, Sonoma County. This hillside vineyard's unique terroir inspired the Godwins to create this groundbreaking
Bordeaux wine from their prized Merlot grapes. The Godwin wine is produced exclusively from grapes grown in the
Godwin Family's Moss Oak Ranch vineyard. The cool ocean breezes that drift in from the Sonoma Coast allow for a longer
hang-time for the ripening fruit, resulting in grapes with more varietal intensity and flavor. While comprised mostly of the
merlot, Godwin is the manifestation of the natural gifts of the vineyard's 'terroir' and the subtle 'fingertip' style of
world-class winemaker Kerry Damskey. Kerry's talent as a winemaker lies in his ability to create a unique statement from a
vineyard. Superior wines are created when the elements of soil and climate are integrated with the winemaker's skill. The
first Godwin 'Moss Oak' was released in 2001 and has received numerous awards and critical acclaim.
August 28 to August 30, 2003
Feudo Arancio Grillo 2001
Local Sicilian white varietal. When vinified pure it produces an elegant and fruity wine. Wine with a characteristic bouquet of nettle, green pepper and jasmine.
Feudo Arancio Chardonnay 2002
A rich and aromatic wine with harmonic and well-balanced flavor.
Feudo Arancio Syrah 2000
The intense brightness of Sicily, together with the uniqueness of the land helps in producing a Syrah of the highest quality. Its wild berry aroma blends together with pleasing hints of chocolate and liquorice.
Marietta Cellars Old Vine Red Lot #32
Old Vine Red Lot #32 is very much in line with Lot #31. A big, round, juicy offering, Lot #32 is a more serious Old Vine
than past Lots. Predominantly Zin, as usual, Lot 32 coats the palate with luscious blackberry fruit and is balanced by
peppery spice both on the palate and aromatically. Aged in French and American oak, this wine should drink well over the
next few years. Dark ruby purple, aromas of fresh rasberries, black pepper spice, and hints of oak where palate coating
berry flavors lead to a lingering yet crisp finish. Blend: 60% Zinfandel, 25% Carignane, 10% Petite Sirah , 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Atalon Napa Merlot 1999
This is a great buy in Merlot. Dark cassis and plum flavors are followed by hints of oak, spice and cedar. Did I mention
this is a great buy in Merlot! Atalon Napa Valley Cabernet 2000
The 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is an outstanding value. It is reminiscent of a Pauillac such as Grand-Puy-Lacoste
because of its body and sweet cassis fruit. The wine is pure, ripe, dense, and full-bodied, with loads of cedar and spice box characteristics. This terrific Cabernet will be at its finest between 2004-2015.
August 21 to August 23, 2003 This week we did the first of Neil Strachan's South African varietal tastings.Avontuur Chenin Blanc 2001 Viljoensdrift Chenin Blanc 2001
Devonhill Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 Bodega Cabernet sauvignon 1999 Simonsvlei Cabernet Sauvignon 1998 Mischa Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 Viljoensdrift Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 Allesverloren Cabernet Sauvignon 1998
August 13 to August 16, 2003 Storrs Gewurztraminer 2000
An unusual combination of rose and tangerine that tastes clean and refreshing, and becomes strongly orange flavored as it sits in the glass.
Toad Hollow Vineyards 2000 Pinot Noir Reserve, Goldie's Vines, Russian River Valley
An old Golden Delicious apple orchard was pulled out and replanted with six different pinot noir clones. This vineyard
produces fruit that is as beautiful and elegant as the marvelous lady for which it was named, Goldie, Rod's mother. A wine
with excellent personality, the Toad Hollow Pinot Noirs combines ripe fruit flavors with its bold, almost full bodied structure for a wine of pleasing completeness.
Vina Sardasol Cabernet 1995
This wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 12 months in French and American oak with further aging of 18 months in
the bottle. It has a rich deep crimson color with complex aromas and a long full-bodied taste that has remarkable character and strength. Hendry 2000 Block 7 Zinfandel
Block 7 is situated on thin, stony clays 200 to 300 feet above sea level. Here old Zinfandel vines grow on gently to
moderately sloping terrain cooled by morning fog and maritime breezes from San Pablo Bay. The wine was aged for 16 months in French oak barrels, of which 30% were new. The result is a rich, spicy, downright tasty Zin!
Chalice Bridge Cabernet 1999 Australia
This classic Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon is black cherry in colour with a sweet lifted purfumed nose of blackcurrant
and wild berries which flow onto the palate. A finely structured wine which also profiles mint and chocolate on a complex palate - all bound together with fine tannins.
Chalice Bridge Shiraz 1999 Australia
Margaret River is now acknowledged as one of Australia's finest wine regions. Its maritime climate and well drained gravel
soils produce wines of great elegance and intensity of flavour. This classic Margaret River Shiraz is mid dark cherry in
colour with the nose displaying elegant berry fruit characteristics. From the impressive 2000 vintage, this wine shows a
creamy palate nicely backed by varietal spice, supple tannins and charry oak. Enjoy now or allow greater complexity to develop over the nest five years.
August 7 to August 9, 2003
"The Ultimate Wine Tasting # 6" Kumeu River Chardonnay 2001
A moderately warm vintage where aroma and flavors developed slowly on the vine emphasising fragrance, delicacy and
balance. The nose has ripe peach aromas with hints of lemon, vanilla, corn and butter. The wine has a full bodied, rich
and mouthfilling flavour with a creamy texture across the mid-palate and crisp acidity on the finish. Very long an stylish. This wine will benefit greatly from a period of bottle maturation of two to five years.
Highfield Marlborough Pinot Noir 2000
Aging in French oak barriques for eleven months has nicely married the warm berry fruit flavours with the elegant fruit and
structure from fruit and oak tannins. Deep garnet and ruby tones with good density. Black plum with hints of cherry.
Liquorice and spicy notes. Ripe and generous with fruit. A smooth texture and persistent complex finish. Chateau St. George Trilogie 2000
Great Merlot. 100% Merlot and 100% new oak. Very deep and intensely flavored in the mouth with vanilla undertones.
Instead of the red and black cherry typical for merlot, the wine features cassis and chocolate. Dusty and dry on the finish,
with noticeable tannin, yet smooth. An excellent example of a Merlot that is well defined, well structured, and intense,
without any hint of greenness or overripeness. The winemakers at Petrus assist in making this wine each year. Atalon Napa Valley Cabernet 1999
91 points from Robert Parker and the Wine Advocate... "The 5,000-case cuvee of 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is an
outstanding value. It is reminiscent of a Pauillac such as Grand-Puy-Lacoste because of its body and sweet cassis fruit.
The wine is pure, ripe, dense, and full-bodied, with loads of cedar and spice box characteristics. This terrific Cabernet will be at its finest between 2004-2015.
Chappellet "Signature" Cabernet 1999 Napa
The red wines of 1999 tend towards lush intensity and balanced tannins. Our 1999 Signature achieves this masterfully
with the added bonus of bright fruit expression, integrated oak and a rich finish. A concentrated nose of cassis, dark
chocolate, and cedar are highlighted by hints of oak sweetness. The soft tannins are layered with lovely black cherry and
currant flavors. Patience will only reward those who watch this wine improve over the next two decades. Babcock Syrah Black Label Cuvee 1999
The theme here is one of looming girth. The wine is dark, dense, and extremely rich. But what really impresses is the
accompanying effects of restraint and elegance. Often, wines that are this ambitious in their ripeness, extraction, and
cooperage, come across like Port. They show lots of fruit and sweetness, but an aldehydic, raisny overripness goes along
with it. This wine's acidity and textural density do a great job holding its more high-toned Syrah fruit tightly together.
The wine lets your palate explore the realm of a hedonistic, dark chocolatey fruit syrup, but it never lets you get stuck in it
like quicksand. Intense blackberry resonates throughout the wine. In the nose are Syrah's trophy elements of pepper, truffles, and violets.
Wine Tasting July 30 to August 1, 2003
Casa LaPostolle Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes, this wine has a rich texture, fresh, ripe fruit flavour and the characteristic
smoky-flinty taste of the Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Excellent balance between fruit and acidity. Hailed by celebrated wine critic Robert Parker Jr. as the finest Sauvignon Blanc I have tasted from South America. De Lorimier Spectrum Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2001
This marriage combines the unique spice of Sauvignon Blanc and opulence of Semillon and Viognier that the deLorimier
estate produces. There is a complexity of flavors and aromas that range from citrus and spice to earth and melon. Selective
barrel fermentation adds further nuances of toast and vanilla.Taking Sauvignon Blanc to a different level, the blending of
varietals expands the horizons on this wine, with a structured definition that is unique, intriguing, and appealing. 2001 Byron Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley
Byron 2001 Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley is complex and expressive with aromas of ripe cherry, plum, tobacco, cedar,
clove, violets and rose petals. The wine displays remarkable intensity of flavor with a richly layered texture and a long, plush finish. River Road Merlot 2001
Lively, intense fruit, black currant and plum. Firm tannins and smoky oak, carry through the finish
Casa LaPostolle Merlot Cuvee Alexandre 2000
The pride of world-renowned French winemaker Michel Rolland, Merlot CUVEE ALEXANDRE is made 100% from Merlot grapes that are grown in one of Casa Lapostolle's superb non-irrigated single vineyard sites located within the Rapel
Valley of central Chile. Low yielding vines, some of which are more then 50 years old, produce very small quantities of
grapes, resulting in a beautifully balanced Merlot that has a deep purple-garnet colour, and rich, mature, complex fruit.
Aged in small French oak barrels for 14 months, followed by 4 months in bottle, Merlot CUVEE ALEXANDRE may be enjoyed now or cellared for several years. Pindar Mythology 1998
A very complex Bordeaux style wine from a vintage year. "Class in a glass, the best red wine from Long Island " The NY Times. Marques De Casa Concha 2001
The grapes for this Cabernet Sauvignon come from the Puente Alto Vineyard in the Maipo Valley, Chile's most noted wine
region. Black currant aromas, with spicy and smoky flavors highlight this concentrated but very smooth wine. The wine complements steaks, roasts, pasta dishes with robust sauces, and strong cheeses.
Wine Tasting July 23 to July 26, 2003
Chapel Hill - Verdelho
Herbal and floral aromas (notebly honeysuckle) and tropical fruit salad (mango and pineapple). The palate is rich and
smooth with length provided by is high natural acidity. Lawson's Dry Hills - Gewurztraminer
This wine, made in the dry style, combines a lifted floral bouquet with intensely spicy flavours, generous palate weight and a long rich finish. Lawson's Dry Hills - Riesling
Riesling made in a refreshing off-dry style, this wine exhibits aromas of ripe peach and melon, balanced with soft lime citrus characters and a long fresh finish.
Lawson's Dry Hills - Sauvignon Blanc
The bouquet shows strong herbaceous tones with a palate that's simply packed with ripe tangy fruit flavors. Good acid and a very long and tasty finish.
Lawson's Dry Hills - Chardonnay
Ripe peach and nectarine flavours with a hint of citrus. Balanced by subtle toasty oak with a long rich finish.
Chapel Hill - Chardonnay Reserve
Gentle, toasty oak, soft harmonious fruit, light/tight tannins and a long finish with great drinkability. Lawson's Dry Hills - Pinot Noir
Deep ruby in colour, this Pinot balances flavours reminiscent of ripe plums and cherries with elegant palate structure, soft tannins and a long finish.
Chapel Hill - Shiraz
During aging, the wine will move through phases of fruit and oak dominance as the youthfullness of fruit contracts,
exposing the sweet, cigarbox oak, then reemerging as coffee and leather in a medium bodied, elegant palate. Chapel Hill - Cabernet Sauvignon
The synergism between flavor and tannin draws together the individual flavors - plum, spice, mint and traces of tobacco,
and the textures - tight/soft tannin, each lifting, building and enhancing the other.
Wine Tasting July 16 to July 18, 2003
1999 Slaley Chardonnay
Great Wine and Great Value . Very few Chardonnays from California or France under $30 are this good. The nose is
strongly leesy with a light pineapple. The mouth has not only pineapple, but vanilla from oak, honey, light butter, and a
bright lime that butresses the flavors and lasts for minutes. The acidity splashes into the mouth and sparkles throughout.
About as good as Chardonnay gets that features intense flavors of lees and citrus combined with tropical fruit and new oak. 1998 Bredell Pinotage
Different and Wonderful - The enormous variety of types and flavors available is one of the attractions of wine drinking.
Pinotage makes a very distinctive wine different from the standard grape varieties grown in the United States and Europe.
It is a cross between two French grapes, Cinsault and Pinot Noir, and is widely grown only in South Africa. Blackberries
and black cherries with an intriguing banana oil in the finish. Fine grained tannins and inky color. Best Pinotage wine I've had as well as a best buy.
2001 Rosenblum Rockpile Road Zinfandel
Great Zinfandel. Zinfandel is famous for making generous, dark, gushing wine, ready to drink when bottled. This wine
starts from this base but builds much more. Century old hillside vines yield grapes with great intensity of flavor. Volcanic
soil, with gravel and clay, adds mineral spiciness. Letting the grapes hang on the vines until early October extracts even
more soil flavors. Havesting by hand, not machine, permits greater selection of grapes. Aging the wine in American and French oak barrels gives complexity and finish.
2000 Kiona Cabernet Sauvignon
Outstanding Cabernet. Near inky dark, with a deep rich fruit nose that has a touch of fresh grapes. A rich bowl of
blackberries, purple plums, and black currants. Very smooth and silky. Right after entering the mouth, there is a flash of
tannins, which the sumptuous fruit then overpowers. The finish is all sweet fruit. Lush and eminently drinkable now, but
probably will improve for at least four years. A wine whose fruit and sheer succulence appeals to novice and expert alike. A wine that will drink superbly right now, in the near term, and in the long term. 1999 Kestrel Syrah
World Class Syrah. The clear winner in a double blind tasting of Syrahs from all around the world, vanquishing other
wines from California, France, Australia, and South Africa. Manages to combine great fruit and lush texture with enough
acidity and tannins to frame the wine. Features flavors of blackberry, cassis, plums, and pepper. Great now and anytime in
the next 10 years. The Best Cellar got two of the only three cases of this wine delivered to South Florida. Don't expect to see it in tastings. Treat yourself with this wine if you like Syrah at all. 1999 Consilience Petit Syrah " Fess Parker "
Lush and Dense. Opaquely black, with a deep nose. Lush and round. A dense combination of elderberry and mulberry that looks like it would hold a spoon up.
Wine Tasting July 9 to July 12, 2003
Villa Frattina of Lison-Pramaggiore Pinot Grigio 2002
Pinot Grigio originated from a cloning mutation of the Pinot Nero varietal which, excluding the color, has kept many of the
same characteristics. Pinot Grigio wines were brought originally into Friuli from the French area of Burgundy and its
cultivation has spread all through the Northeastern part of Italy. Friuli has proven to be the most suitable area for the
production of high quality Pinot Grigio. From Friuli comes this wine of a pale straw-colored yellow with a full prominent
fragrance reminiscent of walnut marrow and a refined aroma of fresh hay and wild honey. The taste is dry, flavorful and full with a fruity aroma and an elegant lingering finish of toasted hazelnuts.
Bodega Pinotage 2001
Medium bodied, with perfect balance between fruit acid and oak. Mocha coffee banana on the nose and black blueberry complex bouquet. Dry raspberry and cranberry flavor an easy drinking palate.
Luis Canas Rioja Reserva - Selection de la Familia 1996
This beautiful Reserva is made from 95% Tempranillo, 3% Graciano and 2% Garnacha from vines that are at least 40 years
old. Aged in French and American oak for 2 years and one more year in the bottle before being released. It has a beautiful
ruby color with brick reflections, aromas of roasted almonds and matured red fruits, good body, great balance and a fantastic finish. Torbreck "Woodcutter Red" 2001
98% Shiraz. Deep Purple/Black with Magenta Hues. Blackberry and Blueberry with leather and spice aromas. Roses and
licorice complete the bouquet. A medium to full bodied wine with supple tannins and a dense, juicy mid-palate. This wine was matured for 12 months in seasoned Hogsheads and Foudres sourced from the forests of France.
Shiraz, Marquis Phillips 2002
Loads of blackberry fruit framed by smooth tannins.
Sarah's Blend, Marquis Phillips 2002
Blend of Shiraz, Cabernet and Merlot.
Wine Tasting July 3, 2003
This week was very special. Luca Paschina, the wine maker at the Barboursville winery in Virginia hosted our tasting. This one night only wine tasting was completely sold out.
Luca Paschina came to Barboursville Vineyards as a consultant for the 1990 harvest. The vineyard had
been started in 1976 by Gianni Zonin, a Tuscan with holdings in the Chianti region, Friuli, Piedmont,
Lombardy and Sicily. Luca had decided to return to his native region, Piedmont, in north-western Italy,
when his contract was up. Piedmont is a region of rolling hills at the foot of the Alps; this part of Virginia,
also known as the Piedmont, is an area of rolling hills at the foot of the Blue Ridge. He returned to Italy,
presented his report to Mr. Zonin, and three days later returned to Barboursville as its manager.
Luca Paschina was featured in an article on the Wine Spectator's on-line.Sparkling Brut NV
A classic blend of carefully selected chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Refreshing and intriguing with vibrant fruit flavors
leading to ripe pear that lingers on the finish. The moderate acidity intergrates well with fine bubbles and a soft structure. Riesling 2002
A long and cold fermentation is the secret of this wine's refreshing and floral character with pear and ripe nectarine tones.
Off-dry, well balanced, offers a nice clean finish. Chardonnay Reserve 2001
Barrel fermented and aged for seven months, this wine is explodes with rich and complex flavors of pear, apple and vanilla.
A good acidity is well proportioned with the generous body and allows for an extended aging potential. Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
This elegant red is complex and inviting, showing currant, mint and herbal tones. Twelve months of oak aging produce a well balanced structure with supple and refined tannins.
Cabernet Franc 1999
A Virginia classic. With layers upon layers of ripe berries, plum, currant, cherry and cedar elegantly woven together by
twelve months of barrel aging to produce a well balanced structure with supple and refined tannins. Octagon Third Edition
A superb red, created and released only in exceptional vintages such as 1991, 1995, 1998, based on Merlot and other
Bordeaux varietals. The massive tannin structure is tamed by extended aging in French oak barrels. Dark in color with a
superb aroma of plum, cassis and tobacco, its complex flavors are well integrated with a silky finish. Phileo
A truly beautiful and friendly dessert wine, the result of a masterful blend of Moscato, Gewurztraminer and other aromatic
varietals. Lively sweetness is balanced by sustained acidity giving a charming clean finish.
Wine Tasting June 25 to June 28, 2003
Feudo Arancio Grillo 2002
Local Sicilian white varietal. When vinified pure, it produces an elegant and fruity wine. Wine with a characteristic bouquet of nettle, green pepper and jasmine.
Brancott Vineyards Reserve Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Only New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc in Top 100 Wine Spectator! Only the ripest, most flavour intense grapes, harvested
from the renowned Brancott Vineyard in Marlborough, have been used for this wine. Strikingly intense gooseberry and tropical fruit flavours are well-balanced with crisp acidity and a lingering finish.
Brancott's Marlborough Reserve Pinot Noir 2000
Its delicately silky black cherry and mushroom fruit spreading out all over your palate, with a spritz of nutmeg spiciness to
further push fruit and texture forward can surely imagine the rare filet mignon, slathered in mushrooms to acompany this wine. Powers Merlot 1999
The aromas of ripe berries, black cherry, and plum are balanced with toasty oak and sweet vanilla. Flavors of red and black
raspberry dominate the surprisingly full mouth feel, with subdued black pepper and wood spice as compliments. The long, soft finish reflects shades of these same flavors.
Hedges 2001 Columbia Valley CMS
Dark red cherry and raspberry aromas are complemented by additional notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and minerals. A soft,
round, and supple palate displays an abundance of rich ripe fruit, followed by smooth tannins that linger on the finish. 50% Cab, 45% Merlot, 3% Cab Franc, 2% Syrah.
Kopparossa Shiraz 2000 ( 90 pts. Wine Spectator )
Deep rich leathery cedar box deep oak flavors dominate the wine both on the nose and the palate backed by tons of jammy fruit flavors. A blockbuster from Australia and brand new to America!
Wine Tasting June 18 to June 21, 2003
This week's wine tasting was entitled "The Other Half" representing the remainder of Neil Strachan's new South African portfolio 2003. These wines had never been tasted in the U.S.A.
Viljoensdrift Chenin Blanc 2001 Devon Hill Pinotage 2001 Devon Hill Merlot 2001 Mischa Shiraz 2001 Broken Stone Shiraz 2001 Allesverloren Shiraz 2000 Allesverloren Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 Allesverloren Tinta Barocca 2000 Allesverloren Vintage Port 1996
Wine Tasting June 11 to June 14, 2003
Kumeu River Chardonnay 2002 ( 93 pts. Wine Spectator )
Hand harvested, whole-bunch pressed, Indigenous yeast fermentation 100% barrel fermentation, 100% malo-lactic
fermentation, 11 months maturation in barrel. The nose has ripe peach aromas with hints of lemon, vanilla, corn and butter.
The wine has a full bodied, rich and mouthfilling flavour with a creamy texture across the mid-palate and crisp acidity on
the finish. Very long an stylish. This wine will benefit greatly from a period of bottle maturation of two to five years. Luigi Bosca Malbec Reserve 1999 INTERNATIONAL WINE CHALLENGE 2000 LONDON ( Gold Medal )
Deep garnet in colour. Velvety on the plate, with a lingering cherries and sour cherries aftertaste. With a tasty finish, it has a deep scent echoing leather notes.
Homewood 1998 Russian River Zinfandel
Cherry and raspberry flavors with medium tannins, moderate oak. A fruit bomb!
Grant Burge Holy Trinity 1998
The wine is made from old vines: grenache, shiraz and mourvedre. The wine has a rich red-purple colour, with excellent
depth and clarity. It shows ample floral, rose-petal grenache characters with strong overtones of cherry-like fruit. The
shiraz adds hallmark peppery flavours while the mourvedre contributes alluring, clove-like spiciness. The French oak adds austerity and complexity to the intense fruit flavours.
Wine Tasting June 4 to June 6, 2003
Hahn Estates 2001 Chardonnay
The flavors are rich and exotic: an array of pear, melon, pineapple, mango and banana - not unlike sweet fruit compote.
There is an impressive lush texture to the wine, the acidity is soft, not harsh. Pairs well with a grilled salmon, sautéed sole, or even crab cakes with tropical fruit coulis.
7 Deadly Zins, 2000 Zinfandel, Lodi
( 94 pts. Wine and Spirits Mag. ) Intriguing nose shows smoky, meaty scents that accompany cherry and raspberry fruit
aromas. Add to that suggestions of bacon and flowers and you have the makings of a great bouquet. All these elements
come through on the palate as the wine coats the mouth with its full body. Its suspect appellation deserves some real respect because of this effort.
Tatachilla Keystone Grenache-Shiraz 2000
Grenache produces small berries of intense color and flavor enabling our wine makers to craft a wine that is flavoursome
yet soft, with low acidity and smooth rounded tannin. Shiraz is blended for length and complexity. Tatachilla Keystone
Grenache Shiraz is a wine that represents the essence of the McLaren Vale. Since the first Keystone release in 1994, Wine
makers Michael Fragos and Justin McNamee have collected four trophies, thirty-five medals and secured a place in the prestigious Sydney International Top 100 with every vintage.
Hahn Estates 2001 Syrah
85% Syrah, 10% Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot 5%. This wine is fragrant, exhibiting classic raspberry fruit
and fresh, cracked black pepper on the nose. Extreme depth in the palate, with lush, sweet raspberry and blueberry flavors. Tatachilla Breakneck Creek Shiraz 2000
Tatahilla Shiraz displays berry and pepper fruit aromas with spicy oak characters. Rich berry and pepper fruit flavors
typical of this classic variety are evident on the palate, while subtle oak treatment was used to add palate complexity and
length. A soft, smooth dry red. Best with full flavored foods, especially red meats and pasta dishes. Enjoy now or cellar for 2 to 4 years.
Wine Tasting May 21 to May 23, 2003
7 Deadly Chardonnays 2001
This unique chardonnay was aged with barrels from 7 different coopers. A light floral bouquet of honey-suckle and orange blossom lead to an angelique pairing of green apple and toasted vanilla flavors. Castello di Lucignano, "Il Sommo" Merlot 2000
(Click here to see a review of this wine - Newsletter #44, May 21, 2003)
Godwin Alexander Valley Moss Oak Merlot 1999
The Godwin Moss Oak wine is intense dark and opaque black-purple in color with aromas of rich sweet fruit, scented with
plum, vanillin and toasty barrel. The flavors are Bordelaise in pedigree – opulent bright fruit in tandem with weighty
concentration and ample tannins structure. This wine is mouth-filling and memorable with a lush creamy finish.
Gold Medal! - 2003 West Coast Wine Competition; Gold Medal & Best of Class - 2002 New World Intl Wine Competition;
Publisher's Pick & 93 Points! - The Wine News - June/July 2002. Lake Breeze Bernoota Cabernet / Shiraz 1999 Australia
Named after the homestead, 'Bernoota' is a blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. A full bodied wine exhibiting blackberry, spice and smoky oak characters.
Margan Family Shiraz Australia Hunter Valley 2001
Planted within the block is a small amount of old Mouvedre vines which also adds to the complexity of this wine. The
grapes were picked at full ripeness and were fermented under cool conditions using cultured aromatic yeast. After
fermentation the wine was placed in older oak hogsheads for a period of eight months to allow it to soften and mature
without gaining overt oak characters. The wine was bottled in January 2002. Purple in colour and of medium density this
wine displays a subtle combination of spicy pepper and tar like characters which are typical of Hunter Shiraz. It is well
structured and shows great palate length. The wine has soft tannins to allow for early enjoyment however it should
continue to develop more complex flavours over the next three years with bottle age. The wine should cellar until at
least 2010. Margan 2000 Shiraz awarded No. 1 Shiraz (288 judged) in Phillip Whites Top 100 wines. The 2001 Margan Shiraz is at least as good and 2002 shows promise of being even better.
Wine Tasting May 14 to May 17, 2003
Huia Sauvignon Blanc 2001
Superb. A great style of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. The fruit is clear, complex, tasty, and appealing. A fruit salad of
gooseberry, green apple, and lime, nicely blended with an undercurrent of young juicy grass. Refreshing and long. The
best 2002 I have had so far. Remember that these wines typically hold for at most two years and don't get better with age.
Great enough to stock up, but buy only what you expect to consume in a year, and drink it regularly to keep tabs on how it is evolving. EOS Novella Synergy 2001
Surprising Intensity. The introductory wine for this vineyard, whose blend sounds like the leftovers after the good stuff
goes into the pricier bottles – 45% Zinfandel, 45% Sangiovese, and 10% Petit Syrah. Every time I look at this wine in the
glass, I think the same thing – with Zin and Petit Syrah, this wine should be much darker than the medium red color it has.
The nose offers a Zinfandel twang with a cherry fruit, as might be reasonably expected. In the mouth, the wine has
surprising intensity, and adds plum to the fruit mix. When you swallow, a spike of flavor shoots through your mouth. An
object lesson in how having clear and intense flavors is more important than being darkly colored or full bodied. Maretta Old Vine Red Lot #31
Subtle aromas of raspberries, dried herbs, and toasty oak definitely exhibit that Old Vine Red Lot #31 is a more serious Old
Vine than past Lots. Predominantly Zin, as usual, Lot 31 has a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend hence the
herbs and added backbone. Aged in French and American oak, this wine should drink well over the next couple of years.Abundance Mencarini "Old Vine" Zinfandel Lodi 2000
This wine has the stuff and the stuffing. It has everything that makes Zinfandel a comfort food. Big blueberry &
raspberry, and deep-plum flavors, density... everything. Barrel aging in older oak barrels gives it smoothness without the
flavor of oak, and since Zin seems to do better without an identifiable oak component, its barrel aging just adds to the complexity and density. Rosenblum 2001 Rockpile Road Zinfandel
The bouquet of this rich, extracted wine shows ripe black cherry and black currant with hints of vanilla, black pepper and
chocolate. The flavors are ripe black cherry, currant and creamy spice with hints of dark chocolate. This rich Dry Creek
Zin will nicely accompany hearty pasta and grilled marinated salmon, slow-smoked Pork Ribs, or Duck ala Orange.
Wine Tasting May 7 to May 10, 2003
Neil Strachan showed some of his brand new imported wines from South Africa.
The Devon Hill Sauvignon Blanc 2001
Viljoensdrift Chardonnay 2002
Broken Stone Pinotage 2001
Mischa Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
Viljoensdrift Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Viljoensdrift Pinotage 2001
Viljoensdrift Merlot / Shiraz 2002
Viljoensdrift Shiraz 2001
Allesverloren Vintage Port 1996
Wine Tasting April 30 to May 3, 2003
Rosenblum 2001 Chateau La Paws Cote du Bone Roan
This is a very fresh, vibrant and exotic wine produced in a southern Rhône style. It exhibits dark cherries, violets and
chocolate in the bouquet, loaded with blackberry, currants and hints of earth tones, wild roses, and roasted herbs. This is
the perfect bistro wine. This wine is produced from various vineyards in California. They include Carignane from the
Continente Vineyard in Contra Costa, Syrah from Sonoma, and a touch of Mourvedre and Grenache for their spicy fruit
quality. Each of these areas contributes their own terroir and fruit components to the blend. All of the lots were fermented
in tanks with a 3-day cold soak and pump-overs twice daily. The wine was blended to produce a wine of intensity and sensational flavor with just a nuance of French oak.
Steele Catfish Zinfandel 2000
The flavor profile of Catfish is always delicate. Some people liken it to Pinot Noir. The hearty and rustic flavors typical of
old vine Zinfandel grown in a warm area are absent. Instead we have cherry fruit, a touch of bramble, and a hint of the red
dusty soil. We attribute this to both the growing conditions of Lake County and the high percentage of other varieties that
are planted in the vineyard. Match this wine with a good plate of grilled chops, marinara sauced pasta dishes or a nice bowl of ciopino. Mild cheeses also work well as do cream based soups.
Stratford Syrah 2000
Another super value, this excellent vintage is a hedonistic Syrah fruit bomb. Dense purple-colored, with seamlessly
integrated tannin and acidity, this ripe, medium to full-bodied, rich effort is not complex, but it is loaded with fruit. Enjoy it over the next several years." -Wine Advocate
Phillipe Lorraine Cabernet Sauvignon 1998
Bright, full red. Aromas of raspberry, red currant, gunpowder, leather and nuts. Ripe, pliant and juicy, with red and black berry flavors nicely framed by acidity. Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Wine Tasting April 23 to April 26, 2003
Chehalem Pinot Gris 2000
Willamette Valley Pinot gris, with white, honeyed citrus flavors, approaching lemon custard. There is a bright, stark
mineral/wet stone/flint impression on the palate, with an uplifted finish that punctuates the beeswax, maple syrup richness with a talc or lime purity. A big wine that is still pretty.
Steele/ Shooting Star Syrah 2000
The tannins are firm and chalky, the flavor is of crushed black fruits, and the aroma has the dusty character, which is a classic Terroir for Syrah. Well worth cellaring, this wine will reward someone.
J. Bookwalter Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
A classic Cabernet Sauvignon in that it has layer upon layer of rich ripe fruit, with a very long, lingering finish. Aged for 19
months in French and American oak barrels, this exceptional blend exhibits rich and concentrated flavors of blackberry,
cassis and mint married with aromas of black cherries and vanilla. A big wine worth cellaring for 5 to 10 years minimum. Byington Alliage Sonoma Red 1999
Out of 160 Gold Medal winners tasted at Ann Arbor Tasters Guild's Prize winners revue in January, this Bordeaux cuvee
was one of my very favorite wines. Very impressive. Big, bold, generous. Loaded with fruit and structure. The oak can't dominate, there's so much fruit mass. 94/100. - Dick Scheer, Village Corner
E O S Moscato 2000
Intense aromas of apricot, orange blossom, and ripe pears immediately leap from the glass accompanied by a subtle
topnote of violets and muted honey. The abundant sugary quality is immediately "cut" by the perfect amount of acid
which complexes with the alcohol to make the sweetness rich and fat without being cloying. This flavorful wine is full and
round in the mouth, lingering on the palate, and continues to shout out apricots and peach long after swallowing. Enjoy with desserts such as fresh fruit cobbler, ice cream or all by itself on a warm afternoon.
(90 pts. Wine Spectator)
Wine Tasting April 16 to April 18, 2003
Avontuur Chardonnay 2000 (4 Stars: Wine Magazine)
Full bodied, well balanced wine with a complex nose. Clean citrus and melon aromas complimented with bright refreshing lemony flavours and a subtle buttery vanilla finish.
Miranda Chardonnay 2000 Barossa Valley
Parcels of Chardonnay from premium vineyards were selected and carefully blended resulting in a balanced wine that
showcases the much sought after flavours of fresh melon and tropical fruit. These Chardonnay characters are supported
by subtle toastiness resulting from partial fermentation in oak. A wine that is ideal for current enjoyment with grilled seafood, light Italian cuisine or a Caesar salad.
Bodega Pinotage 2001
Mocha coffee and banana whiffs complement a black and blue berry complex bouquet. Medium bodied with perfect
balance between fruit, acid and oak. Dry raspberry, cranberry and redcurrant flavor an easy drinking palate. Powers Syrah 2000
Intense, darkly extracted color with complex aromas of black currant, dark plum, cassis and ripe raspberry. Very full-bodied
style with flavors of berries, cassis, plums and a hint of toastiness. Long, intense finish of sweet ripe berries, cassis and black plum. Miranda Shiraz 2000 Barossa Valley
Rich ripe fruit flavours of blackcurrant, plums and pepper enhanced by subtle spice and earthy characters from American
oak maturation are the unique hallmarks of the Australian Shiraz style. Here they are in abundance, all wrapped up in a full
yet soft wine that will mature for the next few years but is most enjoyable now with venison, barbeques, traditional baked meats or a ripe blue cheese. Napa Wine Co. Cabernet Sauvignon 1999
Powerful in style and full bodied, this Cabernet is round, firm, and long on the palate, with evident tannin on the finish.
Tastes of blackberry, cherry, roasted meat, spicy oak, and herbs. 8% Merlot. Organically farmed grapes.
Wine Tasting April 9 to April 12, 2003
Cambria Kathryn's Chardonnay 2001 ( 94 Pts. Wine Enthusiast )
100% Chardonnay. "A tribute to Cambria's consistent style and character, 2001 Katherine's Chardonnay is a lush,
well-rounded wine revealing vibrant tropical flavors folded over hints of vanilla and pear. The finish is enduring, made memorable by notes of vanilla and oak spice."
Kestrel 1998 Merlot ( 90 pts. Wine Spectator )
1998 is considered by many Washington State winemakers to be one of our state's top four vintages ever. Deep-dark
purple-red color. Rich and luscious aptly describe this superb Merlot. The aromas and flavors are plum, dried fruit leather,
damask rose petals, vanilla and a soothing berries and rich-fresh-cream note. The body is medium-plus to full (quite voluptuous actually). Great structure. The finish is brimming with ripe fruit flavors. Waterbrook Merlot 1999 ( Previous vintage rated 90 WS )
92% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc. Fresh currant and cedar greet the nose with flavors of juniper, smoke and cherries enveloping the senses. Solid fruit and bold tannins give this great backbone.
Kestrel 2000 Syrah ( 90 pts. Wine Spectator )
Ripe, plump and disctinctive for a peachlike note that weaves through the blackberry and tobacco flavors, finishing with firm tannins that let the flavors on and on.
Kestrel 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon ( 91 pts. Wine Spectator )
Simply an outstanding vintage. Rarely has a more perfect grape growing season been offered from which to craft fruit into
wine. A beautiful purple-red color pours into one's glass. The aromas and flavors are very complex with notes of black cherries, blackberries, sage, vanilla and light chocolate.
Kiona 2000 cabernet Sauvignon
This 2000 vintage Cab is as good or better than the 99. The 99 vintage received 92 Points in Wine Spectator and was #25
on the 2002 Top List! Offers complex, dark fruit aromas and bold flavors. The long, rich, huge fruit flavors balance perfectly with the big tannins and lingering finish.
Waterbrook 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon ( Previous vintage rated 90 WS )
76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc. Fabulous nose of black cherries and ripe berries with a hint of creamy butterscotch gliding over the palate, completed by a polished finish.
Waterbrook Red Mountain Meritage 1999 ( Excellent! )
Beautifully focused with a sense of elegance and finesse, the Red Mountain Meritage continues as Waterbrook's premier
blend 41% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Franc, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of blackberries and spice greet the nose, with ripe and rich flavors or plum, black cherry and cassis. Full-bodied and extremely well-structured.
Wine Tasting April 2 to April 4, 2003
Shepherds Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 2002
Listed "Top Scoring" and "Smart Buy" in the Wine Spectator! A truly irresistible wine from the Sauvignon Blanc Capital
of the world, reflecting the magnificent legacy of the Marlborough region. Lingering gooseberry overtones. Castle Syrah, Sonoma Valley 1999
( 89 pts. Wine Spectator )
"The 1999 Syrah's plum/ruby color is followed by smoky, wild berry notes mixed with hints of nuts and asphalt. With
excellent sweetness as well as purity, this flavorful, medium to full-bodied Syrah should be consumed over the next 6 - 7 years. Bushman's Creek Shiraz 1998
Best Buy - Top-notch, beautifully made shiraz. Smells rich and smooth, with some coffee. Strong cherry fruit, silky texture,
ample acid and tannin, very delicious, and long. Equals the quality of shiraz costing over twice as much. Hopkiln Zinfandel, Primitivo Vineyard 1998
This bottling marks the first of an estate grown Zinfandel named for the original 1880's vineyard bench land on which it
was replanted. This vineyard is unique because of its developing age, flat ground and particular terroir. It has produced a ripe, port-like wine, redolent of raspberry jam in the aroma and flavor.
Dievole Chianti Classico Novecento Riserva 1997
You don't drink this wine – you experience it. Not just a great Chianti, but great wine period. "Big and juicy red (like a Zinfandel), with loads of berry, chocolate and vanilla aromas" Wine Spectator
. "Made in special years from only the ripest clusters at the tops of hills in the vineyards, from grapes with maximum ripeness, this is a terrific of fruit and oak balance.
It's supple and rich, with excellent cassis like flavors."
{* * * * 1/2 - Michael Lonsford, Houston Chronicle}.
Wine Tasting March 26 to March 29, 2003
De Lorimier 2000 Sauvignon Blanc - 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Brimming with bright citrus with mellower crisp pear overtones, this wine is designed to make your taste buds dance. Perfect as an everyday aperitif, and priced to keep a permanent spot in your refrigerator. Hahn Estates 1999 Chardonnay
Pineapple, mango, melon and other subtle tropical notes are expressed in the nose in typical Monterey fashion. Hahn Estates 2001 Merlot
80% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Cabernet Franc. Pronounced cherry and cassis highlighted by toasted oak on
the nose. Big bold flavors of black cherry, raspberry jam supported by a solid core of acidity, tannins are dense, yet dusty and soft. Hahn Estates 2001 Syrah
85% Syrah, 10% Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon / Merlot 5%. This wine is fragrant, exhibiting classic raspberry fruit
and fresh, cracked black pepper on the nose. Extreme depth in the palate, with lush, sweet raspberry and blueberry flavors. Hahn Estates 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot. Big, dark berry fruit and raspberry are the predominant aromas. Mouth-filling and
round. Ripe plum, currant and cassis flavors up front that shift towards chocolate espresso. Hahn Estates 1999 Meritage
53% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec, 5% Petite Verdot. Anise, green olive, mocha
coffee, and brambly fruit on the nose. Sumptuous, round and silky in the mouth with forward leaves of cassis and black cherry. De Lorimier 1999 Mosaic Red Meritage
65% Cabernet Sauvignon 13% Merlot 13% Malbec 9% Cabernet Franc. Destined to be another classic, the 99 Mosaic
showcases the best of a great vintage. Layer upon layer of flavor buoyed in the harmonies of the classic Bordeaux
varietals, each of which carries its own unique textures, flavors and hues to challenge and satisfy even the most discerning aficionado. This is the real deal. The total package.
Wine Tasting March 19 to March 22, 2003
The wines we tasted this week were fine Italian wines from Wines For Everyone, imported and distributed by Dr. Herb Moselle. These wines are very limited and available predominantly in fine
Italian restaurants. Elena Walch Castel Ringberg & Kastelaz Beyond the Clouds DOC 2000
Elena Walch's personal creation, a superb white cuvee, 70% chardonnay with four more classic varietals, all done in oak.
The Falstaff Guide (Austrian) awarded this wine 91 points. As a new wine, Gambero Rosso tasted it and personally informed the producer that it was a super wine and would be rated highly in his next book.
Rocche Costamagna Flavo 2001
This Chardonnay's nose is intense with aromas of banana, pineapple, and honey. Well-structured with moderate acidity, it provides a complex and long lasting finish. This wine was featured in the Wine Spectator. Bricco Maiolica Vigna Vigia Barbera d'Alba DOC 2000
Dark and toasty, with a warm mouthfeel, this luscious red from Piedmonte lives up to the Gambero Rosso two glass rating of the 1999 vintage.
Pervini Accademia dei Racemi: Archidama Primitivo di Manduria DOC 2000
Recipient of a two glass rating from Gambero Rosso, this wine is the star from the cellars of Perucci brothers. With plum and tobacco on the nose, its palate is well-structured and intense with vanilla and ripe fruit. Isimbarda Montezavo Oltrepo Pavese Rosso DOC 1999
One of the top wines from Isimbarda, this ruby-colored red has spicy notes on the nose and a robust, full-bodied palate. Rocche Costamagna Dell' Annunziata Barolo 1998
This smooth, round, delicious Barolo has aromas of plum, cherry, and leather. It is medium-bodied with a fruity finish.
Castelli'In Villa Chianti Classico Riserva 1995
Recipient of 2 glasses from Gambero Rosso, this Chianti offers a nose of dried flowers, cinnamon and vanilla. It is well-balanced and elegant.
Villa Buonasera Casa Eri Chianti Classico DOCG 1997
Recipient of two glasses from Gambero Rosso, this classic wine is a well-balanced, delicious Chianti.
Highlights of the Wine Tasting March 12 - March 15, 2003 We tasted 8 wines from the 2000 Bordeaux vintage that Robert Parker has touted as one of the best vintages ever. Chateau Puygueraud Cotes de Francs 2000 Chateau Rocher Bellevue 2000 Cotes De CastillonChateau Le Baron De Brane 2000 Margaux
Chateau St. Georges St. Emilion 2000 Chateau St. Georges Trilogie 2000
(In honor of three generations of Petrus) Chateau d'Armailhac 2000 Pauillac
Chateau Phelan Segur St. Estephe 2000 Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes 2000
Highlights of the Wine Tasting March 5 - March 8, 2003 Montinore Gewurztraminer 2000
A bouquet of rose, apricot and citrus with flavors of baked apples, lemon, cloves and grapefruit followed by an off-dry finish with 2% residual sugar. Montinore Pinot Gris 2001
Ripe fruit character with appealing apple and pear notes, best served with seafood or lighter meat dishes.
Pirramimma Cabernet Sauvignon 1998 (Australia)
Dark, youthful, concentrated, brimming with juicy acidity and tasty cassis and purple plums. Wonderful now and will be even better in about four years. Only a few cases left. Don't wait or it will be gone.
Concilience Petite Syrah 1999 (California)
Opaquely black, with a deep nose. Lush and round. A dense combination of elderberry and mulberry that looks like it would hold a spoon up. Jacobs Creek Shiraz Reserve 2000
Fruity, plummy and well structured and ready to consume. A perennial great value. Accented by pepper and tannin.
Pirramimma Late Harvest Riesling
Rather like a sauterne with more Sauvignon Blanc. Harvested with 300g/l sugar, and has 130g/l residual sugar, but only
tastes lightly sweet because of fine balancing acidity. Amazingly light and delicate, with flavors of orange, pineapple, yellow raisins, and honey.
Highlights of the Wine Tasting February 26 - March 1 , 2003
Meeker Zinfandel Alexander Valley 2000Meeker Four Kings 1999 Bordeaux Blend Kaesler Stonehorse Shiraz Barossa Valley 2001
Penny's Hill Shiraz Mclaren Vale 2000
Highlights of the Wine Tasting February 19 - February 22 , 2003 Huia Sauvignon Blanc 2002 - Marlborough, New Zealand Cristoza Bianco Garganega 2001
(an interesting blend of four different grape varietals) Campo Madonna Cabernet Sauvignon 1999Campo All'abero 1998
Isambardu Montezavo Rosso Reserva 1999
Highlights of the Wine Tasting February 12 - February 15 , 2003 SIMONSVLEI Chardonnay 2000
Consistent if not better than previous vintages. A light fragrance of butterscotch and gentle toasty oak with hints of
melon and tropical fruits. Ample but balanced acidity shows as sweet citrus with melon and hints of apricot on the length. AVONTUUR Barrel Select Chenin Blanc 2001
June of this year - winner of South Africa's Best Chenin - Gold Medallist John Fridjon Trophy. Big toasty oak bouquet
explodes in the mouth with peach melon and lime predominating in the upfront character, but give way to honey and vanilla with some almond nuttiness complexity with an enduring finish. Could easily be confused with some world class
chardonnays. SIMONSVLEI Shiraz 2000
Silky smooth with prominent black cherry and raspberry fruit. Fine tannins make for easy palatability finishing with hints of black pepper and smoky woodspice. AVONTUUR Merlot 98
Fullish, with sumptuous juicy fruit, meaty depth and interesting spiciness. Low tannin extraction and brief exposure to oak
makes this wine good to drink now rather than store. BREDELL'S Pinotage 98
Typical of the varietal, ripe banana and spicy clove whiffs introduce a big, fruity wine enhanced by blackberry, a hint of vanilla framed by subtle tannins and a year of French and American oak .
BUSHMAN'S CREEK Shiraz 98
Harvested at a higher than normal 25 degrees brix leads to a ripe full bodied red showing youthful berry fruit overlaid with
green pepper and spice. Maturation for 18 months in 300 liter French and American oak brings about an excellent
follow-through on the palate with juicy ripe tannins and a long supple, velvety finish. GOLD MEDAL JULIET CULLINAN WINE MASTERS AWARD 2001 DEVON HILL Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
Clean cedar and rich mulberry fruit with cascading black currant and cassis structured with fine grained tannins -
integrating nicely now. Best barrel selection and no filtering give 100% cab characteristics enhanced by all new 100%
French oak. Dense ruby color, strictly cab aromatics and a joy ride of rich succulent berry in the mouth with perfect balance and a sustained finish. DOUBLE GOLD SOUTH AFRICAN VERITAS AWARDS 2001
AVONTUUR 'Above Royalty' Special Late Harvest Weisser Riesling 2000
Botrytis effected. Deep and thick golden richness in the glass shouts honey and apricot. White peach acidity slices
through oak brushed luxurious sweetness to a lingering clean finish. 7200 x 375 ml bottles produced from a miserly .85 tons / acre yield. Plus or minus 113 gms sugar / litter and 8.6 gms / litter acidity.
Highlights of the Wine Tasting February 5 - February 8 , 2003
Huia Sauvignon Blanc 2002Chalice Bridge Chardonnay 2001 Kelly's Promise Estate Cabernet/Merlot 1999 Frattina Vineyards Cabernet Franc 1998
Chalice Bridge Cabernet Sauvignon 1999 Chalice Bridge Shiraz 1999
Highlights of the Wine Tasting January 29 - February 1 , 2003 Davis Bynum Sauvignon Blanc 2001Luis Canas Rioja Crianza 1999 Hop Kiln Estates Zinfandel 2000 Abundance Estates Zinfandel 2000 Pezzi King Merlot "Suzie's
Reserve" 2000Brico Francesco Barolo 1998
(only available at The Best Cellar and fine Italian Restaurants in the area)
Highlights of the Wine Tasting January 22 - January 25 , 2003
Vermentino Di Sardegna Soletta 2001Avontuur Estate Luna De Miel 2000 "Honeymoon" Chardonnay Rabbit Ridge 1997 "OVZ" Reserve Zinfandel Veraison Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 L'Ecole 41 Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2000 Seguoia Grove Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 1998
Tetachilla "Foundation" Shiraz McLaren Vale Australia 1997
Highlights of the Wine Tasting January 15 - January 18 , 2003 Frattina Pinot Grigio 2001Wirra Wirra Vineyards - 45% Semillion, 35% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Chardonnay Archidama Primativo DOC 2000
Cartledge and Brown Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 Arboleda Winery 2000 Syrah Arboleda Winery 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Errazuriz Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
Highlights of the Wine Tasting January 8 - January 10 , 2003 Brancott Sauvignon Blanc 2002
(one of the top 100 wines of 2002 from the Wine Spectator) La Crema Viognier 2000 Concilience Petite Syrah 1999 Veraison Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2000
(only 950 cases made)
Click Here To See Highlights Of The Wine Tastings In 2002
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Richard Stetler's Fine Wines & Tastings
