WSET Level 3 Course - Berry Brothers & Rudd

Berry Brothers & Rudd - Basingstoke
Tasted Saturday, January 25, 2014 - Saturday, March 22, 2014 by HStaal with 1,655 views

Introduction

Wines tasted as part of WSET Level 3 Course. Course run by BBR in Basingstoke with Martin Hudson MW as tutor.

Flight 1 - Session 1 - Morning (5 Notes)

The Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc was tasted blind under exam conditions

  • 2012 Domaine La Haute Févrie Muscadet de Sèvre-et-Maine sur lie 84 Points

    France, Loire Valley, Pays Nantais, Muscadet de Sèvre-et-Maine sur lie

    (1/25/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - no real legs; watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, fruit aromas - green fruit (Apple, green pear) stone fruit (white peach) some floral notes (white blossom)
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, quite crisp, light body, medium intensity flavours, medium finish, medium level of alcohol (12%). Fruit flavours - green apple, pear, lemon, sherbet.
    Overall: simple fruits - a bit too acidic; medium length finish; medium intensity fruit flavours; not particularly complex.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE edging GOOD; drink now not suitable for further ageing; mid priced (£9.95)

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  • 2012 Domaine Dubost Beaujolais-Villages Le Tracot 83 Points

    France, Burgundy, Beaujolais, Beaujolais-Villages

    (1/25/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium(-) intensity ruby edging purple. Minimal legs, purple blue yet watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium(-) intensity, youthful, fruity, no complexity, black currants and red currants
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, low tannins, light body, medium(-) intensity flavours, medium(-) finish, medium level of alcohol (12.5%). Fruit flavours - red and black fruits
    Overall: balanced young wine; medium(-) length finish; medium(-) intensity fruit flavours; not particularly complex.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - suitable for limited further ageing; mid priced (£10.95)

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  • 2001 Bodegas Amezola de la Mora Rioja Vina Amezola Gran Reserva 88 Points

    Spain, La Rioja, Rioja

    (1/25/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium(-) intensity garnet edging tawny. Some legs, brown to brick red rim
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, fully developed, raisins, prunes, dried fruit, savoury and leather notes, earthy/game notes
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(-) well integrated/resolved tannins, medium body, medium(+) / pronounced intensity, medium(+) finish, medium level of alcohol (13%); dried fruit, raisins, nutty, prunes, red fruit, leather and savoury notes; lovely soft and mature texture.
    Overall: lovely mature wine with good balance between fruit and savoury notes; medium(+) length finish; good intensity; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD /VERY GOOD; fully developed - drink now - suitable for limited further ageing; premium priced (£34.95)

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  • 2008 Berry Bros. & Rudd Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos 90 Points

    Hungary, Tokaji

    (1/25/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium gold, clear legs, rim consistent with core.
    Nose: clean, pronounced intensity, developing, honey, marmalade, baked orange, dried apricots
    Palate: luscious, medium(+) acidity, full body, pronounced intensity, long finish, medium(-) level of alcohol (12%). Honey, marmalade, baked orange, dried apricots
    Overall: good balance between fruit, sweetness and acidity; long finish; very intense; good complexity
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now - suitable for further ageing; premium priced (£29.95)

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  • 2013 Dog Point Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 87 Points

    New Zealand, South Island, Marlborough

    (1/25/2014)

    Tasted blind under exam conditions

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - no real legs; watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium intensity [should have been pronounced], citrus fruits, green fruits, some tropical fruits [add afterwards - gooseberry, lemon, lime, kiwi, passion fruit, vegetal, peach; youthful]
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, quite crisp, medium(-) body, medium(+) intensity, medium(+) finish, citrus fruits, green fruits, some tropical fruits, some stone fruit [add afterwards - gooseberry, lemon, lime, kiwi, passion fruit, vegetal, peach; medium(+) alcohol (13.5%)]
    Overall: good balance between fruit and acidity; good length finish; good intensity; some complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now - limited potential for further ageing; high priced (£16.85)

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Flight 2 - Session 2 - Afternoon (4 Notes)

Tasting in contrasting pairs

  • 2011 Domaine Coudoulet Chardonnay 83 Points

    France, Languedoc Roussillon, Vin de Pays d'Oc

    (1/25/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale/medium(-) lemon green - no real legs; pale rim
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, pear, peach, some tropical fruits, developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(-) body, medium(-) intensity, medium(-) finish, purely fruit flavours: pear, peach, some tropical fruits; medium alcohol (13.5%).
    Overall: OK balance; medium(-) length finish; medium(-) intensity; no complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - limited potential for further ageing; mid priced (£9.25)

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  • 2011 Bret Brothers Pouilly-Fuissé La Roche 88 Points

    France, Burgundy, Mâconnais, Pouilly-Fuissé

    (1/25/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale/medium(-) lemon - some legs; pale rim
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, citrus fruits, some tropical fruits, oaky notes, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(-) acidity, medium body, medium intensity, medium finish, creamy texture: citrus fruits, some tropical fruits; some yeasty notes, medium(+) alcohol (13.5%).
    Overall: good balance; good length finish; reasonable intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now - potential for further ageing; premium priced (£28.50)

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  • 2009 Les Vins de Vienne Côte-Rôtie Les Essartailles 88 Points

    France, Rhône, Northern Rhône, Côte-Rôtie

    (1/25/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium(+) intensity purple. Some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, black fruit, some oak, spicy and savoury notes
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium body, medium(+) intensity, medium finish, medium level of alcohol (13%); black fruit, spicy and savoury notes.
    Overall: good balance between fruit and savoury notes; good length finish; good intensity; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; developing - drink now - suitable for further ageing; premium priced (£44.00)

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  • 2010 Penfolds Shiraz Bin 150 Marananga 87 Points

    Australia, South Australia, Barossa, Barossa Valley

    (1/25/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep purple. Pronounced legs
    Nose: clean, pronounced intensity, developing, red and black fruit, chocolate, some oak
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, pronounced intensity, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.5%); black fruit, vanilla.
    Overall: good balance; good length finish; quite intense; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; developing - drink now - suitable for further ageing; premium priced (£42.00)

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Flight 3 - Session 3 - Morning - BURGUNDY, BEAUJOLAIS and ALSACE (6 Notes)

  • 2010 Caves Duplessis Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume 86 Points

    France, Burgundy, Chablis, Chablis 1er Cru

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon - some legs; pale rim
    Nose: clean, medium(-) to medium intensity, citrus (lemon/lime) fruits, green fruits, youthful to developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(-) to medium body, medium intensity, medium(-) to medium finish, green fruit (apple), citrus fruits (lemon), some mineral (stone) notes, medium(-) alcohol (12.5%).
    Overall: reasonable balance; medium length finish; medium intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE to GOOD; drink now - potential for further ageing; premium priced (£24.95)

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  • 2011 Jean-Yves Devevey Meursault Les Vireuils 88 Points

    France, Burgundy, Côte de Beaune, Meursault

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium(+) lemon edging gold - some legs; pale rim
    Nose: clean, medium to medium(+) intensity, citrus fruits (grapefruit), tropical fruits (melon, ripe pineapple), oak notes (vanilla, toast), youthful to developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium to medium(+) body, medium to medium(+) intensity, medium to medium(+) finish, citrus fruits (sweet lemon), pineapple, well integrated oak (vanilla, toasty notes), medium alcohol (12.5%).
    Overall: well balanced; good length finish; good flavour intensity; reasonable complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD to VERY GOOD; drink now - potential for further ageing; premium priced (£35.00)

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  • 2011 Olivier Merlin Moulin-à-Vent 87 Points

    France, Burgundy, Beaujolais, Moulin-à-Vent

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale intensity purple edging blue. Some legs.
    Nose: clean, medium(-) to medium intensity, youthful, fruity, red fruit (raspberries, strawberries, cherries)
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(-) tannins, medium(-) to medium body, medium intensity flavours, medium finish, medium level of alcohol (13.0%). Red fruit, spicy notes, some earthy notes
    Overall: Good balance; medium length finish; good intensity flavours; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now - suitable for limited further ageing; HIGH priced (£18.95)

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  • 2001 Serafin Père et Fils Gevrey-Chambertin 89 Points

    France, Burgundy, Côte de Nuits, Gevrey-Chambertin

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale intensity garnet with brown rim. Pronounced legs.
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing to fully developed, red fruit (raspberries, cherries), savoury and vegetal notes, earthy/farmyard
    Palate: dry, medium to medium(+) acidity, medium(-) to medium soft and fine grained resolved tannins, medium(+) body, medium intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium level of alcohol (13.0%). Red fruits (plum, raspberries, cherries), savoury (earthy notes), some oak sweetness
    Overall: Good balance; long finish; quite intense flavours; great complexity – lot going on.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now – not suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£55.00)

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  • 2010 Rolly Gassmann Riesling Silberberg 89 Points

    France, Alsace

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium gold - some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) to pronounced intensity, citrus (lemon/lime) fruits, floral notes, melon, honey, baked/dried apples, developing
    Palate: off-dry, medium(+) to high acidity, medium(-) to medium body, pronounced intensity, medium(+) to long finish, citrus fruits (lemon), some apple, medium(+) alcohol (14.0%).
    Overall: good balance; long finish; good intensity of flavours; quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now - suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM price (£27.50)

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  • 2011 Domaine Ostertag Pinot Gris Zellberg 88 Points

    France, Alsace

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon to gold (straw) – slight pinkish-ness; some legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, grape, floral notes (white flowers, honeysuckle), developing
    Palate: off-dry to medium dry, medium(-) to medium acidity, medium body, medium intensity, medium finish, sweet citrus fruits (sweet orange), quince, medium alcohol (13.5%).
    Overall: bit flabby to be well balanced; medium length finish; medium intensity of flavours; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD to VERY GOOD; drink now – not suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM price (£31.50)

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Flight 4 - Session 4 - Afternoon - BORDEAUX and SOUTH WEST FRANCE (6 Notes)

  • 2010 Château Doisy-Daëne Grand Vin Sec 85 Points

    France, Bordeaux

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon-green - no legs, watery rim(very pale)
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, oak(toasty notes), grassy notes, ripe peach, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity – quite fresh, medium body, medium intensity, medium finish, peach, grassy notes, oak, citrus, stone, herbaceous, medium alcohol (13.0%).
    Overall: a bit too acidic; medium length finish; reasonable intensity of flavours; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE to GOOD; drink now - suitable for further ageing; HIGH price (£16.95)

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  • 2011 Dourthe Berrys' Good Ordinary Claret 83 Points

    France, Bordeaux

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium(+) ruby. No real legs, pale rim
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, fruity - black fruit (blackcurrant, plum, damson), oak
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium to medium(+) tannins, medium body, medium intensity flavours, medium finish, medium level of alcohol (13.0%). Black fruit(blackcurrant, damson), toasty notes
    Overall: OK balance; medium length finish; medium intensity flavours; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - suitable for limited further ageing; MID priced (£9.00)

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  • 2004 Château Moulin Saint-Georges 88 Points

    France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep garnet. Some real legs, brown rim
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, fully developed, fruity - red fruit (plum), hints of oak, savoury notes
    Palate: dry with some fruit sweetness, medium acidity, medium soft tannins, medium body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.0%). Red fruit, savoury(earthy, meaty) notes, some minerality
    Overall: Good balance; good length finish; quite intense flavours; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now – not suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£36.00)

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  • 2005 Château Marquis de Terme 89 Points

    France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Margaux

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby. Some real legs, brown rim
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, fruity - black fruit (blackcurrant), hint of oak, savoury notes
    Palate: dry, medium(+) fresh acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium level of alcohol (13.0%). Black fruit(blackcurrant), toasty notes, earthy/savoury notes
    Overall: Good balance; good length finish; quite intense flavours; good complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD / VERY GOOD; can drink now – but has potential for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£35.00)

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  • 2004 Château Raymond-Lafon 90 Points

    France, Bordeaux, Sauternais, Sauternes

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep gold, serious legs
    Nose: clean, pronounced intensity, developed, honey, marmalade, mineral(nail varnish remover, airfix glue), vanilla, ripe banana, apricots
    Palate: luscious, medium acidity, full body, medium(+)/pronounced intensity, long finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (13.5%). Honey, marmalade, baked orange, lemon curd, almonds(marzipan/nougat), thick texture(fat)
    Overall: Very good balance between fruit, sweetness and acidity; long finish; quite intense; quite complex
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now but has potential for further ageing; premium priced (£23.50)

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  • 2009 Domaine Pichard Madiran 86 Points

    France, Southwest France, Madiran

    (2/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby. Some real legs, purple/blue rim
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, fruity - black fruit (blackcurrant), leather, tar, spice
    Palate: dry, medium(-) acidity, high coarse tannins, medium(+) to full body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.5%). Black fruit(blackcurrant, blackberries, under ripe damson), tannin bitterness, thick texture
    Overall: Very tannic to be balanced; good length finish; quite intense flavours; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD ; too young – needs ageing to allow tannins to soften; HIGH priced (£18.95)

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Flight 5 - Session 5 - Morning - LOIRE, RHONE and SOUTHERN FRANCE (7 Notes)

  • 2012 Domaine Daniel Chotard Sancerre 86 Points

    France, Loire Valley, Upper Loire, Sancerre

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - no real legs; watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium(-) to medium intensity, green fruits(gooseberries), some stone fruits, herbaceous(grassy) notes, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, quite crisp, medium(-) body, medium intensity, medium finish, citrus fruits(lemon zest), green fruits(green apple), grassy finish; medium alcohol (13%)]
    Overall: reasonable balance; reasonable length finish; reasonable intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE/GOOD; drink now - limited potential for further ageing; high priced (£16.50)

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  • 2011 Vincent Carême Vouvray Sec 86 Points

    France, Loire Valley, Touraine, Vouvray

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon to gold – some legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, green fruits(bruised apples, over ripe apples, cider), some honey, hazelnuts, wool/lanolin, waxy notes, acetate, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium/medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity, medium/medium(+) finish, green fruits(green apple), slightly sweet finish; medium(+) alcohol (14%)
    Overall: good balance; reasonable length finish; reasonable intensity; quite complex.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE/GOOD; drink now - has potential for further ageing; high priced (£17.95)

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  • 2010 Famille Perrin / Perrin & Fils Cairanne Peyre Blanche 87 Points

    France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Cairanne

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale ruby. Light legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, developing(youthful), simple nose, red fruits(cherry, raspberry)
    Palate: dry, medium(-) acidity, medium(-) tannins, medium body, medium/medium(+) intensity flavours, medium finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14%). Red fruits(raspberry, cherry, plums), some spice(black pepper, Chinese 5 spice) soft easy drinking
    Overall: reasonable balance; reasonable length finish; not bad intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now – suitable for limited further ageing; mid priced (£11.95)

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  • 2009 Domaine de la Mordorée Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée de la Reine des Bois 89 Points

    France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby/purple. Clear legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, red and black fruits – ripe and baked in character – fruit crumble, sweet spice(cinnamon)
    Palate: dry, medium(-)/medium acidity, medium tannins, medium(+)/full body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+)/long finish, medium(+)/high level of alcohol (15%). Red fruits(cherry, plums), black fruits(blackberries), spicy finish (black pepper, sweet spice), mineral note
    Overall: good balance - bit young; long finish; quite intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; too young/drink now – suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£46.00)

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  • 2009 Domaine Des Hauts Chassis Crozes-Hermitage Les Galets 87 Points

    France, Rhône, Northern Rhône, Crozes-Hermitage

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep purple with bluish rim. Some legs
    Nose: clean, medium/medium(+) intensity, developing, black fruits, spice(cloves), earthy savoury notes
    Palate: dry, medium/medium(+) fresh acidity, medium dusty tannins, medium body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium finish, medium level of alcohol (13%). Black fruits(bramble, blackcurrant, blackberries), earthy and spicy notes
    Overall: good balance; medium length finish; quite intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now – suitable for further ageing; HIGH priced (£18.95)

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  • 2012 Domaine Coudoulet Pinot Noir 82 Points

    France, Languedoc Roussillon, Vin de Pays d'Oc

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium purple with purple rim. Some legs
    Nose: clean, medium/medium(+) intensity, youthful/developing, black fruits(bramble), spicy / earthy farmyard notes
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium body, medium intensity flavours, medium sweet finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (13.5%). Black fruits
    Overall: OK balance – quite tannic; medium length finish; reasonable intensity; no real complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now – suitable for further ageing; MID priced (£10.25)

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  • 2009 Domaine Le Plan de L’Homme Terrasses du Larzac Habilis 89 Points

    France, Languedoc Roussillon, Languedoc, Terrasses du Larzac

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby. Some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, black fruits(blueberry), herbal(menthol), savoury/gamey notes
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.5%). Black fruits(blackberries), jammy(baked fruit), thick texture, toasty sweetness, spice(pepper, liquorice)
    Overall: great balance; quite long finish; quite intense; lot going on in terms of complexity.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now – suitable for further ageing; MID priced (£16.95)

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Flight 6 - Session 6 - Afternoon - GERMANY, AUSTRIA, HUNGARY and GREECE (6 Notes)

  • 2012 Ktima Pavlidis Assyrtiko Emphasis 84 Points

    Greece, Macedonia, Drama

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium(-) intensity, citrus fruits, acidic green fruit, green grape, developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, sharp, medium(-) body, medium(-) intensity, medium(-) finish, citrus fruits(lemon, lime); medium alcohol (14%)]
    Overall: reasonable balance; bit short in length; reasonable intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - no potential for further ageing; high priced (£13.50)

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  • 2011 Josef Ehmoser Grüner Veltliner Aurum 87 Points

    Austria, Niederösterreich, Wagram

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium(-) intensity, savoury, mineral, reductive notes, developing
    Palate: dry, medium/medium(+) acidity, medium/medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity, medium finish, green fruits, grass, mineral, salad leaves(rocket), spicyness; medium alcohol (14%)]
    Overall: reasonable balance; good length; quite intense; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE/GOOD; drink now - no potential for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£29.95)

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  • 2011 Schloss Gobelsburg Riesling Reserve Gaisberg 88 Points

    Austria, Niederösterreich, Kamptal

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium/medium(+) intensity, citrus fruits (lime), green fruit(green pear), mineral/petrol notes, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium body, medium(+) intensity, medium/medium(+) finish, citrus fruits(lemon, lime); medium alcohol (13.5%)
    Overall: bit acidic; reasonable length; quite intense; reasonable complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now - has potential for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£23.95)

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  • 2012 Eva Fricke Riesling Rheingau 88 Points

    Germany, Rheingau

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, citrus fruits (lemon, lime), honeydew melon, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium body, medium(+) intensity, medium/medium(+) finish, citrus fruits(lemon, lime), green grapes, grapefruit, mineral notes; medium alcohol (12.5%)
    Overall: balanced; quite long finish; quite intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; drink now - has potential for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£19.95)

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  • 2011 Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett 89 Points

    Germany, Nahe

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, green fruits (pear), chalky minerals, petrol, developing
    Palate: medium-dry, medium(+)/high acidity, medium body, medium(+) intensity, medium/medium(+) finish, citrus fruits(lime), green grapes, overall reminded me of green Opal fruit sweets; low alcohol (10%)
    Overall: good balance; decent finish; decent intensity; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; drink now - has potential for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£20.00)

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  • 2011 Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Auslese 91 Points

    Germany, Mosel Saar Ruwer

    (2/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium gold; quite some legs
    Nose: clean, pronounced intensity, lime marmalade, apricot, honey, developing
    Palate: sweet, medium(+) acidity, medium(+) body, pronounced intensity, medium(+) finish, lime marmalade, honey, stony/steely minerals; low alcohol (8%)
    Overall: great balance; good length finish; very intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now - has potential for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£39.95)

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Flight 7 - Session 7 - Morning - ITALY (6 Notes)

  • 2012 Corte Sant'Alda Soave Vigne di Mezzane 83 Points

    Italy, Veneto, Soave

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon – watery rim;some legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, citrus fruits(lemon), some honey sweetness, nectarine/grapey/white flowers notes, youthful/developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(-)/medium body, medium(-) intensity, medium(-) finish, citrus fruits(lemon,lime), simple and unoaked wine; medium(-) alcohol (12.5%)
    Overall: Reasonable balance; short length finish; no great intensity; no complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now; not suitable for ageing or further ageing; MID priced (£13.95)

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  • 2006 Luigi Oddero Barolo Rocche Rivera 88 Points

    Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Barolo

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale garnet with tawny rim. Obvious legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, raisins, prunes, leather, tar, savoury notes
    Palate: dry, medium(+)/high acidity, medium(+)/high tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14%). Sour red fruits(sour cherries, sour plums), raisins, smoky mineral notes
    Overall: well balanced; long length finish; intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; can drink now but suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£43.95)

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  • 2011 Novaia Valpolicella Classico 84 Points

    Italy, Veneto, Valpolicella, Valpolicella Classico

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium ruby with blueish rim.
    Nose: clean, medium/medium(+) intensity, developing, red fruits(cherries), baked fruits, hint of black fruits, sweet notes – sweet spice, hint of oak
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, light/medium(-) tannins, light/medium(-) body, medium(-)/medium intensity flavours, medium(-)/medium finish, medium level of alcohol (12.5%). Sour red fruits(sour cherries, cranberries)
    Overall: OK balance – bit acidic; shortish length finish; OK intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now – not suitable for further ageing; MID priced (£10.95)

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  • 2009 Novaia Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Corte Vaona 90 Points

    Italy, Veneto, Valpolicella, Amarone della Valpolicella Classico

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby/garnet with brown rim. Very viscous, pronounced legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, dried fruits(raisins, figs, prunes), red fruits, savoury notes, spice(cloves, cinnamon) – quite porty nose
    Palate: dry (sweet notes almost off-dry), medium(+) acidity, medium coarse tannins, full body, medium(+)/pronounced intensity flavours, medium(+)/long finish, high level of alcohol (15.0%). Sour red fruits(sour cherries, cranberries, redcurrant)
    Overall: well balanced; long finish; intense; complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now - suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£31.95)

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  • 2009 Badia a Coltibuono Chianti Classico Riserva 87 Points

    Italy, Tuscany, Chianti, Chianti Classico DOCG

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale/medium garnet with brownish rim, some legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, developing, not a lot of fruit – some red fruits(cherries), mineral(stone) notes, herbal notes – quite a fresh nose
    Palate: dry, medium(+)/high acidity, medium(+)/high coarse tannins, medium body, medium/medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.5%). Sour red fruits(bitter cherries, plum) – quite fresh palate
    Overall: Good balance; good length finish; quite intense; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£25.95)

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  • 2010 Luigi Tecce Irpinia Campi Taurasini Satyricon 87 Points

    Italy, Campania, Irpinia Campi Taurasini

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby with garnet rim. Some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, earthy savoury notes, black fruits(blackcurrant, blackberries) pickled onions, Branston pickle
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(+)/high fin grained tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium finish, medium level of alcohol (13.5%). Black fruits; some sournbess, some spicyness, mineral(stone); quite fresh; initial fruit gives way to tannic finish
    Overall: Good balance; reasonable length finish; quite intense; lot going on - complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; can drink now - suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£19.95)

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Flight 8 - Session 8 - Afternoon - SPAIN AND PORTUGAL (6 Notes)

  • 2012 Cillar de Silos Verdejo Rueda El Quintanal 83 Points

    Spain, Castilla y León, Rueda

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon-green – pale rim.
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, stone fruits(peach), unoaked, developing
    Palate: dry, medium fresh acidity, medium(-)/medium body, medium intensity, medium(-) finish, citrus fruits(lemon), stone fruit(peach), grassy notes, simple and unoaked wine; medium alcohol (13.0%)
    Overall: Reasonable balance; shortish finish; reasonable intensity; no complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - not suitable for ageing or further ageing; MID priced (£9.95)

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  • 2012 Benito Santos Albariño Rías Baixas Igrexario de Saiar 82 Points

    Spain, Galicia, Rías Baixas

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon – pale rim.
    Nose: clean, medium(-) intensity, green fruits(pear, grape), mineral(salty/briney/saline), unoaked, developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, light/medium(-) body, medium(-) intensity, medium(-) finish, subdued stone fruits(under ripe white peach, star fruit), sour/bitter notes, salty finish (like oyster water) unoaked wine; medium(-)/medium alcohol (12.5%)
    Overall: slightly disjointed; short finish; no great intensity; no complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - not suitable for ageing or further ageing; MID priced (£11.95)

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  • 2009 Condado de Haza Ribera del Duero Crianza 86 Points

    Spain, Castilla y León, Ribera del Duero

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium intensity ruby with purple rim. Definite legs, quite viscous
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, developing, red fruit, toasted coconut, youthful fruity character
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium intensity, medium finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.5%); some red fruit(some sour red fruit) and mainly black fruit; sweet oak notes
    Overall: OK balance; reasonable length finish; reasonable intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; can drink now - suitable for ageing or further ageing; premium priced (£18.95)

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  • 2005 La Rioja Alta Rioja Viña Arana Reserva 89 Points

    Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alta, Rioja

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium intensity garnet with tawny rim. Some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing to fully developed, red fruit, leather, spice, earthy
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium tannins, medium body, medium(+) intensity, medium(+) finish, medium level of alcohol (13.0%); red fruit(some sour red fruit), gamey, leathery, savoury, meaty notes
    Overall: Good balance; quite long finish; quite intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; drink now - suitable for limited further ageing; premium priced (£21.95)

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  • 2010 Domini de la Cartoixa Priorat Crossos 86 Points

    Spain, Catalunya, Priorat

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium intensity ruby with purple rim. Some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(-)/medium intensity, developing black fruit, spice
    Palate: dry, medium(-) acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity, medium(+) finish, medium(+)/high level of alcohol (14.5%); black fruit(blackcurrant, blackberry), oak sweetness, spice(pepper)
    Overall: Bit unbalanced by high alcohol; long finish; quite intense; reasonably complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; can drink now - suitable for further ageing; HIGH priced (£13.10)

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  • 2008 Poeira Douro 89 Points

    Portugal, Douro

    (2/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby with purple rim. Evident legs
    Nose: clean, medium/medium(+) intensity, developing, black fruit(bramble), savoury and oaky notes.
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+)/full body, medium(+)/pronounced intensity, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.0%); ripe black fruit(bramble), fruit sweetness – blackberry jam also some vanilla sweetness
    Overall: Well balanced; quite long finish; quite intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now - suitable for further ageing; premium priced (£33.15)

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Flight 9 - Session 9 - Morning - NORTH AMERICA (7 Notes)

  • 2010 Olivier Merlin Pouilly-Fuissé Terroir de Fuissé 85 Points

    France, Burgundy, Mâconnais, Pouilly-Fuissé

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium gold - some legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, pineapple, hazelnut, butter, bruised red apple, stone fruit, developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium body, medium(-) /medium intensity, medium (hot) finish, some oak notes, green fruits(green apple), pineapple, medium(+) alcohol (13.5%).
    Overall: OK balance; reasonable length finish; reasonable intensity; no real complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now – limited potential for ageing; premium priced (£27.00)

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  • 2010 Ramey Chardonnay Russian River Valley 88 Points

    USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon/gold - definite legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, oak notes(woody, toasty, vanilla sweetness), some baked vegetables(baked beans), ripe fruit, pineapple, tropical fruit, developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity – quite fresh, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity, medium(+) finish, oak, green fruit(green apple), green melon, pink grapefruit, vanilla on finish, bit saline/salty, medium(+)/high alcohol (14.5%).
    Overall: a bit alcoholic and a bit too much oak; long finish; quite intense; quite a lot going on.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; can drink now – has potential for ageing; premium priced (£29.95)

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  • 2012 Frog's Leap Sauvignon Blanc Rutherford 86 Points

    USA, California, Napa Valley, Rutherford

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon-green – watery rim, some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, floral notes, peach, asparagus, unoaked, youthful/developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(-)/medium body, medium intensity, medium finish, medium alcohol (12.5%), citrus fruits(lemon), pink grapefruit, vegetal, peppery note(rocket leaves/watercress)
    Overall: OK balance; reasonable length finish; reasonable intensity; no real complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE/GOOD; drink now – not suitable for ageing; premium priced (£19.95)

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  • 2010 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Knox Alexander 88 Points

    USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Maria Valley

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale intensity garnet with pale rim. No real legs.
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, developing, red fruits(raspberries, strawberry), spicey, minerality(smokey), oak
    Palate: dry, medium to medium(+) acidity, medium(-) to medium tannins, medium(-)/medium body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium finish, medium level of alcohol (13.5%). Red fruits (plum, cranberries, bitter cherries), toasty oak, peppery spicyness, smokiness
    Overall: Reasonable balance; reasonable length finish; quite intense flavours; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£36.95)

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  • 2009 Kenwood Zinfandel Kenwood Vineyards 88 Points

    USA, California, Sonoma County

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium intensity ruby. Definite legs.
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, youthful/developing, red and black fruits, baked fruit, raisins, some sweetness
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium finish, medium(+)/high level of alcohol (14.5%). Red and black fruits, raisins, some fruit sweetness on finish, herbal hints, liquorice
    Overall: Good balance; reasonable length finish; quite intense flavours, quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing; HIGH priced (£15.95)

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  • 2011 Frog's Leap Cabernet Sauvignon 87 Points

    USA, California, Napa Valley

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium/deep intensity ruby with purple rim. Some legs.
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, developing, black fruits(blackcurrant), oak toasty notes, leafy note
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium/medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium/medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium level of alcohol (13.0%). Sharp black fruits(blackcurrant, black cherries), toasty oak on finish, quite fresh.
    Overall: Reasonable balance; quite long finish; quite intense flavours, some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD+; can drink now – suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£34.15)

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  • 2009 Andrew Will Two Blondes Vineyard 92 Points

    USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Yakima Valley

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium intensity ruby with garnet rim. Some legs.
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, developing, black fruits, baked fruits, jamminess, raisins, savoury/earthy notes, sweet oak notes, bergamot(earl grey tea), menthol.
    Palate: dry, medium/medium(+) acidity, medium/medium(+) fine integrated ripe tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+)/long finish, medium(+)/high level of alcohol (14.5%). Black fruits, black pepper, savoury/umami notes – soy sauce.
    Overall: Great balance; long finish; intense flavours, quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for limited ageing; PREMIUM priced (£48.00)

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Flight 10 - Session 10 - Afternoon - SOUTH AMERICA AND SOUTH AFRICA (6 Notes)

  • 2010 Tamaya Syrah Winemaker's Gran Reserva 85 Points

    Chile, Limarí Valley

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep intensity ruby with purple rim. Obvious and quite coloured legs.
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, youthful/developing, black fruits(blackcurrant / blackberries), sweetness like black fruit jam.
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (13.5%). Black fruits(blackcurrant / blackberries), toasty oak notes on finish.
    Overall: Reasonable balance; long finish; quite intense flavours, quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; too young/can drink now – suitable for ageing; HIGH priced (£15.75)

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  • 2010 De Martino Carménère Single Vineyard Alto de Piedras 88 Points

    Chile, Maipo Valley

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep intensity ruby. Significant legs.
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, developing, red fruits, smokey, minerals, vegetal, leafiness, toasty oak.
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+)/full body, medium(+)/pronounced intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (13.5%). Fresh red fruits, toasty oak notes, bitterness, leafy character.
    Overall: Good balance; long finish; intense flavours, quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£22.95)

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  • 2012 Mauricio Lorca Torrontés Fantasia 85 Points

    Argentina, La Rioja

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon-green with pale rim.
    Nose: clean, pronounced intensity, youthful/developing, very aromatic, floral, honey dew melon, candied fruit, stone fruit.
    Palate: dry edging off-dry, medium fresh acidity, medium body, medium(+)/pronounced intensity flavours, medium finish, medium level of alcohol (13.5%). Fruity, stone fruits, citrus fruits, grape, Sicilian lemon.
    Overall: OK balance; reasonable length finish; intense flavours, reasonable complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now – not suitable for ageing; MID priced (£9.95)

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  • 2010 Pulenta Estate Gran Malbec X 90 Points

    Argentina, Mendoza, Lujan de Cuyo, Agrelo

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep purple. Clear legs.
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, black fruits(bramble), black pepper, meaty, gamey, savoury, oak.
    Palate: dry with some oak and fruit sweetness, medium fresh acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+)/pronounced intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+)/high level of alcohol (14.5%). Black fruits, toasty oak notes, smokey, minty.
    Overall: Reasonable balance; long finish; intense flavours, quite complex – pretty full on wine
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£25.95)

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  • 2012 Oldenburg Chenin Blanc 85 Points

    South Africa, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon; watery rim - clear legs
    Nose: clean, medium/medium(+) intensity, oak and toasty notes, savoury / salty notes; no obvious fruit, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) fresh acidity, medium/medium(+) body, medium(-) /medium intensity, medium finish, toasty oak notes, some green fruits(green apple), some citrus fruits, honey, medium(+)/high alcohol (14.5%).
    Overall: OK balance; reasonable length finish; not particularly intense; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE/GOOD; can drink now – potential for ageing – needs time to become more interesting; HIGH priced (£17.95)

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  • 2011 Lammershoek Pinotage LAM 87 Points

    South Africa, Coastal Region, Swartland

    (2/22/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium intensity ruby with garnet edges. Some legs.
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, developing, fresh red fruits, smokey, rubber(sweaty trainers), medicinal / antiseptic notes
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium/medium(+) fine integrated ripe tannins, medium body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) bitter / smokey finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (13.5%). At first rubber notes gving way to red fruits finishing on smokey/bitter notes..
    Overall: OK balance; long finish; quite intense flavours, quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing; MID priced (£11.20)

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Flight 11 - Session 11 - Morning - AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND (8 Notes)

  • 2010 Leeuwin Estate Riesling Art Series 86 Points

    Australia, Western Australia, South West Australia, Margaret River

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium(-)/medium intensity, citrus fruits, mineral/petrol notes, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+)/high acidity, light/medium(-) body, medium(+) intensity, medium finish, citrus fruits(lime zest), stony minerality, floral, grape, green apple notes; medium(-) alcohol (12.0%) – racy acidic structure
    Overall: reasonable balance; reasonable length; quite intense; bit one dimensional in terms of complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now – not suitable for further ageing; HIGH priced (£18.50)

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  • 2005 Poole's Rock Sémillon Hunter Valley 89 Points

    Australia, New South Wales, Hunter Valley

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon to gold - pale rim; no real legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, not very fruit expressive – some generic citrus fruits, honey, wax, lanolin, buttery (though no MLF in this wine), toasty (though no oak in this wine); fully developed.
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(+) body – quite mouthfilling, lots of texture, medium intensity, medium(+) finish, citrus fruits(sharp lemon), exotic fruit(star fruit), mineral character; medium(-) alcohol (12.0%) – overall really hard to pin down both aroma and palate on this wine. A MENSA wine – sit and ponder wine rather than drink with food.
    Overall: good tension rather than balance; quite long finish; quite intense; very complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£47.00)

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  • 2011 McHenry Hohnen Chardonnay Burnside 90 Points

    Australia, Western Australia, South West Australia, Margaret River

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium gold - pale rim; some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, ripe fruits, stone fruits, honey melon, orange blossom, buttery, hazelnut, developing
    Palate: dry, medium/medium(+) acidity, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity, medium(+) finish, medium(+) alcohol (13.5%); ripe fruit – stone fruit(apricot), citrus fruit(lemon/lime marmalade), toast/vanilla – fruit upfront, creamy texture.
    Overall: great balance; quite long finish; quite intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£20.95)

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  • 2010 Robert Oatley Cabernet Sauvignon Finisterre 89 Points

    Australia, Western Australia, South West Australia, Margaret River

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby with serious coloured legs.
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, black fruits(blackberry, blackcurrant), plum, leafy herbaceous note, eucalyptus
    Palate: dry (but with quite a bit of fruit concentration), medium acidity, medium(+) ripe, fine texture tannins, medium(+) body, medium/medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.0%), ripe black fruit(blackberry, blackcurrant), dark coffee, toasty oak notes
    Overall: Well balanced; quite long finish; quite intense; complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing – almost too young; PREMIUM priced (£22.50)

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  • 2011 Berrys' Australian Shiraz Shiraz Elderton Estate 84 Points

    Australia, South Australia, Barossa, Barossa Valley

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium ruby with obvious legs.
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, black fruits, clove, smoky notes, “weed”/marijuana - allegedly
    Palate: dry (but with some fruit sweetness), medium/medium(+) acidity, medium tannins, medium body, medium intensity flavours, medium finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (13.5%), red fruit(cherry, plum), peppery spice, menthol/eucalyptus notes
    Overall: Not really balanced; reasonable length finish; reasonable intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE/GOOD; drink now – not suitable for ageing; MID priced (£9.95)

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  • 2013 Dog Point Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 89 Points

    New Zealand, South Island, Marlborough

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, very pale lemon green - no real legs; watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium(+) to pronounced intensity, green fruits(gooseberry), tropical fruits(kiwi, passion fruit), stone fruits(peach), asparagus, grassy, wet nettles, elderflower – bit of a fruit salad nose; youthful/developing
    Palate: dry edging off-dry due to a hint of sugar, medium(+)/high acidity, medium body, medium(+)/pronounced intensity, medium(+) finish, medium(+) alcohol (13.5%); tropical fruits(lychee, passion fruit), gooseberry, white peach, nectarines, elderflower.
    Overall: very good balance between fruit and acidity; quite long finish; very intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now - limited potential for further ageing; high priced (£16.85)

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  • 2012 Felton Road Pinot Noir Bannockburn 89 Points

    New Zealand, South Island, Otago, Bannockburn

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale ruby with purple rim, some legs.
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, youthfull/developing, ripe red fruits, herbal savoury notes, smoky oak notes, hint of black fruit, farmyard aromas.
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium fine texture tannins, medium body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium/medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.0%), intense red and black fruit, smokiness, earthy, spicy notes
    Overall: Good balance; quite long finish; quite intense; quite complex – a lot going on.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£38.00)

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  • 2009 Esk Valley Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec 88 Points

    New Zealand, North Island, Hawke's Bay, Gimblett Gravels

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium to deep ruby with blueish rim, definite legs.
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, developing, black fruits(blackcurrant, damson), toasty oak notes, tar
    Palate: dry, medium/medium(+) acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14.0%), black fruit(blackberry, blackcurrant), some red fruit, oak – spicy sweet notes.
    Overall: Reasonable balance; reasonable length finish; quite intense; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD / VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing; HIGH priced (£18.00)

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Flight 12 - Session 12 - Afternoon - SPARKLING WINES (5 Notes)

  • NV Bele Casel Asolo Prosecco Superiore Extra Dry 84 Points

    Italy, Veneto, Asolo Prosecco Superiore

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green – persistent aggressive mousse/bubbles
    Nose: clean, medium/medium(+) intensity, pears, almonds, green apples; youthful.
    Palate: off-dry / medium-dry, medium acidity, medium(-) body – aggressive mousse, medium(+) intensity, medium(-) finish, simple fruit – pear, grape, apple; light/medium(-) alcohol (11.0%).
    Overall: good balance; short length finish; quite intense; no real complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE/GOOD; drink now – not suitable for further ageing; HIGH priced (£12.95)

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  • 2008 Gramona Cava Argent Reserva Brut 86 Points

    Spain, Cava

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon – soft creamy mousse/bubbles
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, slightly rubbery, green apple, yeasty notes, caramel, butterscotch; developing.
    Palate: dry, medium(-)/medium acidity, medium body – soft creamy mousse, medium/medium(+) intensity, medium/medium(+) finish, medium alcohol (12.0%); yeasty/biscuit notes, green and red apple, citrus fruits(preserved lemon)
    Overall: reasonable balance; good length finish; quite intense; moderate complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now – suitable for limited further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£29.95)

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  • NV Cloudy Bay Pelorus (Brut) 87 Points

    New Zealand, South Island, Marlborough

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon – fine frothy mousse/bubbles
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, quite some autolytic character – toast, bread, yeast, biscuit notes; developing.
    Palate: dry, medium/medium(+) acidity, medium body – fine frothy mousse, medium/medium(+) intensity, medium(+) finish, medium alcohol (12.5%); yeasty/biscuit notes, green apple, citrus fruits(lemon, lime) – overall reminiscent of green Opal fruits
    Overall: Good balance; decent length finish; quite intense; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now – suitable for limited further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£19.35)

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  • NV Berry Bros. & Rudd Champagne Blanc de Blancs Le Mesnil 88 Points

    France, Champagne

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon/gold – fine mousse/bubbles
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, quite some autolytic character – quite noticeable yeast notes; savoury, dairy notes (MLF?), bruised apple; developing.
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium/medium(+) body – fine mousse, medium/medium(+) intensity, medium(+) finish, medium(-)/medium alcohol (12.0%); green apple, brioche, creamy notes – overall reminiscent of sparkling Chablis
    Overall: Good balance; decent length finish; reasonable intensity; reasonable complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing or further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£31.95)

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  • 2005 Berry Bros. & Rudd Champagne Grand Cru UK Cuvée (Mailly) 90 Points

    France, Champagne, Champagne Grand Cru

    (3/1/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium gold with pinky notes – persistent fine mousse/bubbles
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, red fruit, earthy notes, red apple, sweet brioche, yeast, stony minerality; developing.
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(+) body – persistent fine mousse, medium(+)/pronounced intensity, medium(+)/long finish, medium(-)/medium alcohol (12.0%); red apple, yeasty brioche, citrus fruit(lemon, lime), savoury notes with a mineral twist, good texture.
    Overall: Good balance; long finish; quite intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£32.70)

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Flight 13 - Session 13 - Morning - FORTIFIED WINES (8 Notes)

  • NV Gonzalez-Byass Jerez-Xérès-Sherry Dos Palmas 90 Points

    Spain, Andalucía, Jerez-Xérès-Sherry

    (3/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium gold; definite legs
    Nose: clean, pronounced intensity, distinctive flor nose – yeasty, airfix glue, green olives, walnut; fully developed.
    Palate: dry, low acidity, medium body, pronounced intensity, long finish, low alcohol for a fortified wine (15.5%), yeasty notes, oat biscuits, green olives, savoury
    Overall: Good balance, long finish, intense, quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now – not suitable for ageing; HIGH priced (£17.95)
    Bottled 2013

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  • NV Emilio Lustau (Almacenista) Oloroso Juan Garcia Jarana Pata de Gallina 1/38 91 Points

    Spain, Andalucía, Jerez-Xérès-Sherry

    (3/9/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep amber/medium brown; definite legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+)/pronounced intensity, caramel, walnut, raisins, toffee ;fully developed.
    Palate: dry, medium(-) acidity, full body, pronounced intensity, long finish, medium alcohol for a fortified wine (20.0%), walnuts, raisins, treacle, toffee, aged Gouda cheese
    Overall: Good balance, very long finish, quite intense, quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now – not suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£19.95)

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  • NV Emilio Lustau Pedro Ximénez Jerez-Xérès-Sherry Solera Reserva San Emilio 90 Points

    Spain, Andalucía, Jerez-Xérès-Sherry

    (3/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep brown with olive green evident in rim; serious legs
    Nose: clean, pronounced intensity, treacle, raisins, toffee, prunes, molasses, some VA; fully developed.
    Palate: luscious, low/medium(-) acidity, full body, pronounced intensity, long finish, medium alcohol for a fortified wine (17.0%), treacle, raisins, toffee, prunes, molasses
    Overall: Good balance – bit too sweet, very long finish, intense, complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now – not suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£20.40)

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  • NV Berry Bros. & Rudd Porto "William Pickering", 20 Year Old Tawny 90 Points

    Portugal, Douro, Porto

    (3/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium tawny with an orange rim; clear legs.
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, fully developed, red fruits, dried fruits, nuts, alcohol, toffee, caramel, glacé cherry.
    Palate: Sweet, medium(-) acidity, low tannins, full body(viscosity), pronounced intensity flavours, long finish, high level of alcohol for a fortified wine (21.0%), sweet red fruit, dried fruit, nuts, marzipan, Xmas cake.
    Overall: Good balanced – bit alcoholic; long finish; intense; complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now – not suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£26.95)

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  • 1997 Smith Woodhouse Porto Vintage 89 Points

    Portugal, Douro, Porto

    (3/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby; clear legs.
    Nose: clean, medium(+)/pronounced intensity, developing, red fruits, black fruits, sweet almonds.
    Palate: Sweet, medium acidity, low/medium(-) integrated tannins, full body, pronounced intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, high level of alcohol for a fortified wine (20.0%), black fruit(blackcurrant, blueberry), nuts, spicy note(pepper), sweet spice on finish.
    Overall: Good balance; quite long finish; intense; reasonably complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£42.00)

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  • NV Barbeito Madeira Sercial Old Reserve 10 Years Old 92 Points

    Portugal, Madeira

    (3/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium amber with a slight olive green rim; definite legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, caramel, candied fruit, savoury, walnut, pecans; fully developed.
    Palate: medium-dry, medium(+) acidity, full body, pronounced intensity, long finish, high alcohol for a fortified wine (19.0%), dried fruits, nuts, walnuts, sultanas, raisins, salted caramel
    Overall: Very good balance, long finish, intense, complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now – not suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£32.95)

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  • NV Barbeito Madeira Malvasia Old Reserve 10 Years Old 94 Points

    Portugal, Madeira

    (3/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium amber with a slight olive green rim; definite legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, caramel, peanuts, cashew nuts, figs, some VA; fully developed.
    Palate: sweet, medium(+)/high acidity, full body, pronounced intensity, long finish, high alcohol for a fortified wine (19.0%), nuts, sultanas, raisins, salted caramel, dried fruits
    Overall: Very good balance between sugar and acidity, long finish, intense, complex.
    Conclusion: OUTSTANDING; drink now – not suitable for ageing; PREMIUM priced (£32.95)

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  • NV Baileys of Glenrowan Muscat Founder Series Classic Muscat 89 Points

    Australia, Victoria, North East

    (3/8/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium brown with olive green evident in rim; serious legs
    Nose: clean, pronounced intensity, grapes, raisins, citrus twist, bergamot, toffee – surprisingly fresh nose; fully developed.
    Palate: luscious, medium(-) acidity, full body, pronounced intensity, long finish, medium alcohol for a fortified wine (17.0%), raisins, toffee, nuts, maple syrup, rose hip syrup, something quite fresh
    Overall: Good balance – bit too sweet, long finish, intense, complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD/VERY GOOD; Drink Now – not suitable for further ageing; but can be kept but will not further improve; PREMIUM priced (£21.95)

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Flight 14 - Session 14 - Afternoon - SPIRITS

No detailed tasting notes taken:

1. Stolichnaya Red Labal Vodka
2. No.3 London Dry Gin
3. Berrys' Caribbean Rum XO
4. Berrys' XO Cognac
5. Berrys' XO Armagnac
6. The Glenrothes Alba Reserve Speyside Single Malt
7. Berrys' Calvados Pays d'Auge

Flight 15 - Session 15 - Morning and Afternoon - Mock Exam Tastng. (4 Notes)

Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions. Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the each sample.

  • 2011 Schloss Gobelsburg Riesling Reserve Gaisberg 90 Points

    Austria, Niederösterreich, Kamptal

    (3/15/2014)

    TASTED UNDER WSET 3 EXAM CONDITIONS AS PART OF A MOCK EXAM. Single blind. Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon green - watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium/medium(+) intensity, citrus fruits (lemon,lime), green fruit(green apple,green pear), stone fruit(peach), mineral/petrol notes, floral notes, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium body, medium(+) intensity, medium/medium(+) finish, citrus fruits(lemon, lime), green fruits(green apple), stone fruit(peach); medium alcohol (13.5%)
    Overall: good balance; reasonably long length; quite intense; reasonable complexity.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; drink now - has potential for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£23.95)

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  • 2005 Château Cantemerle 90 Points

    France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Haut-Médoc

    (3/15/2014)

    TASTED UNDER WSET 3 EXAM CONDITIONS AS PART OF A MOCK EXAM. Single blind. Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, deep ruby. Clear legs, purple rim
    Nose: clean, medium(-)/medium intensity, fully developed, black fruit (blackcurrant, blackberry), red fruit(plum), toasty oak, savoury and earthy notes, mineral notes, pencil shavings
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium body, medium intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium level of alcohol(13.0%). Black fruit(blackcurrant, blackberry), red fruit(plum), toasty notes, earthy/savoury notes
    Overall: Good balance; good length finish; quite intense flavours; good complexity.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now – but has potential for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£35.00)

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  • 2011 McHenry Hohnen Chardonnay Burnside 90 Points

    Australia, Western Australia, South West Australia, Margaret River

    (3/15/2014)

    TASTED UNDER WSET 3 EXAM CONDITIONS AS PART OF A MOCK EXAM. Single blind. Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon/gold - pale rim; some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, citrus fruits(lemon), stone fruits, tropical fruits, buttery, toasty oak, mineral notes, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(+) body, medium intensity, medium(+) finish, medium alcohol (13.5%); stone fruit, citrus fruit(lemon), tropical fruit, toasty oak, butter.
    Overall: great balance; quite long finish; quite intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now – suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£20.95)

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  • 2009 Giovanni Rosso Barolo Serralunga d'Alba 90 Points

    Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Barolo

    (3/15/2014)

    TASTED UNDER WSET 3 EXAM CONDITIONS AS PART OF A MOCK EXAM. Single blind. Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, pale garnet with tawny rim. Obvious legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, developing, red fruits(sour cherry, plums) prunes, tar, mineral, earthy and spice notes
    Palate: dry, medium(+)/high acidity, medium(+)/high tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (14%). Sour red fruits(sour cherries, sour plums), prunes, mineral, earthy and spice notes
    Overall: well balanced; long length finish; intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; too young/can drink now but suitable for further ageing; PREMIUM priced (£28.50)

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Flight 16 - Personal general tasting practice under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice) over the duration of the course. (16 Notes)

Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the each sample.

  • 2012 Tesco Finest Frappato 83 Points

    Italy, Sicily, Terre Siciliane

    (2/26/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium ruby, some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity aromas of red fruits
    Palate: dry, medium (+) fresh acidity, medium(-) tannins, medium(-) body, medium(+) intensity flavours, medium level of alcohol(13%), medium(-) finish, red fruits(raspberry, strawberry) – fresh, fruity and light – very pleasant
    Overall: OK balance ; shortish length ; quite intense ; no real complexity – it is all about fruit.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now – not suitable for ageing; INEXPENSIVE priced (£5.99)

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  • 2012 Tesco Finest Sancerre Fournier Père & Fils 85 Points

    France, Loire Valley, Upper Loire, Sancerre

    (2/27/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon-green with watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, green fruits, citrus fruits, unoaked, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium body, medium(+) intensity, medium finish, green fruits, citrus fruits, medium alcohol (12.5%).
    Overall: OK balance; reasonable length finish; reasonable intensity; no real complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE/GOOD; drink now – not suitable for ageing; HIGH priced (£12.49)

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  • 2010 Tesco Finest Bolgheri 87 Points

    Italy, Tuscany, Bolgheri

    (2/27/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, medium intensity ruby with purple rim. Clear legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, red and black fruit, oak, developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity, medium(+) finish, medium(+) level of alcohol (13.5%); black fruit, red fruit, oak
    Overall: Reasonable balance; quite long finish; reasonable intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; can drink now - suitable for further ageing; MID priced (£10.29)
    Overall felt a bit young - could do with more time and/or a long decant

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  • 2010 Tesco Finest Cabernet Sauvignon 84 Points

    Australia, South Australia, Limestone Coast

    (3/5/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium ruby, definite legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, dark fruits(black currant, blackberry), eucalyptus, some oak
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium body, medium(+) intensity, black fruits(black currant, black berry), oak; medium(+) finish. Medium/medium(+) alcohol (13.5%)
    Overall: Ok balance - it is all about fruit; reasonable length finish, quite intense in an in your face sort of way, some complexity - quite fruit forward.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - not suitable for ageing; MID priced (£ 7.49)

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  • 2011 Tesco Finest Pinot Noir 83 Points

    New Zealand, South Island, Otago, Central Otago

    (3/6/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, pale ruby with a pale rim, clear legs evident
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, red fruits(redcurrant, cherry), some oak and farmyard notes; developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium tannins, medium body, medium intensity, red fruits(redcurrant, cherry), some oak and spice, medium(+) finish. Medium(+) alcohol (14.0%)
    Overall: Ok balance - bit acidic; reasonable length finish, reasonable intensity, some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; can drink now - suitable for limited ageing; MID priced (£ 11.49)

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  • 2012 Tesco Finest Vinho Verde 82 Points

    Portugal, Minho, Vinho Verde

    (3/6/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon-green with a watery rim
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, citrus fruits(lemon, lime); developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity - quite crisp; light/medium(-) body, medium intensity, citrus fruits(lemon, lime),medium(-) finish. Light/Medium(-) alcohol (11.5%)
    Overall: Ok balance ; shortish length finish, reasonable intensity, no real complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - not suitable for ageing; MID priced (£ 7.49)

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  • 2012 Tesco Finest Riesling Howard Park Tingleup Vineyard Great Southern 87 Points

    Australia, Western Australia, South West Australia, Great Southern

    (3/7/2014)

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon-green with a watery rim; some legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, citrus fruits(lemon, lime), stone fruit, floral notes, some petrol; developing
    Palate: dry/off-dry, medium(+)/high acidity; medium body, medium intensity, citrus fruits(lemon, lime), stone fruit; medium finish. Medium(-) alcohol (12.5%)
    Overall: Ok balance; reasonable length finish, reasonable intensity, some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; can drink now - suitable for limited ageing; MID priced (£ 7.49)

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  • 2010 Tesco Finest Marlborough Chardonnay 87 Points

    New Zealand, South Island, Marlborough

    (3/13/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon/pale gold with a watery rim; clear legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, citrus fruits, stone fruit, oak; developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity; medium(+) body, medium intensity, citrus fruits, stone fruit, butter(MLF), oak; medium finish. Medium(+) alcohol (14.0%)
    Overall: Ok balance; reasonable length finish, reasonable intensity, some complexity.
    Conclusion: GOOD; drink now - not suitable for ageing; MID priced (£ 7.49)

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  • 2012 Tesco Finest Carménère 85 Points

    Chile, Rapel Valley, Colchagua Valley

    (3/13/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, medium ruby with purple rim, definite legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, dark fruits(black currant), red fruits, oak, developing
    Palate: dry with some fruit sweetness, medium acidity, medium tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity, black fruits(black currant), red fruits, oak; medium finish. Medium(+) alcohol (13.5%)
    Overall: Ok balance; reasonable length finish, reasonable intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - not suitable for ageing; MID priced (£ 7.99)

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  • 2012 Tesco Finest Argentinian Chardonnay 84 Points

    Argentina, Mendoza

    (3/15/2014)

    Appearance: clear, medium lemon with a watery rim; clear legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, tropical fruits(pineapple), stone fruit(peach), butter, oak; developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity; medium(+) body – creamy texture, medium intensity, tropical fruits(pineapple), stone fruit(peach), butter(MLF), oak; medium finish. Medium(+) alcohol (13.5%)
    Overall: Ok balance; reasonable length finish, reasonable intensity, some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPATBLE; drink now - not suitable for ageing; MID priced (£ 6.37)

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  • 2012 Tesco Finest Rioja Blanco Viña Mara 83 Points

    Spain, La Rioja, Rioja

    (3/17/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon with a watery rim; no real legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, citrus fruits, stone fruit, butter; developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity; medium(-)/medium body – creamy texture, medium intensity, citrus fruits, stone fruit, butter(MLF); medium finish. Medium(-) alcohol (12.5%)
    Overall: Ok balance – bit light; reasonable length finish, reasonable intensity, some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now - not suitable for ageing; MID priced (£ 7.99)

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  • 2009 Tesco Finest Barolo 88 Points

    Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Barolo

    (3/17/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, pale garnet with tawny rim, definite legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, red fruits(sour cherry, sour plum), earthy and spice notes, developing
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium(+) body, medium(+) intensity, red fruits(sour cherry, sour plums), earthy, spicy notes; medium(+) finish. Medium(+) alcohol (14.0%)
    Overall: Ok balance; long finish, quite intense; quite complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; can drink now - suitable for ageing; HIGH priced (£ 15.99)

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  • 2012 Tesco Finest Sémillon Denman Vineyard 88 Points

    Australia, New South Wales, Hunter Valley

    (3/18/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon to gold - pale rim; no real legs
    Nose: clean, medium intensity, citrus fruits(lemon, lime), green fruits(apple), stone fruit(peach), developing.
    Palate: dry/off-dry, medium(+) acidity, medium body, medium intensity, medium finish, citrus fruits(lemon,lime), green fruit(apple), stone fruit(peach); low/medium(-) alcohol (10.0%).
    Overall: well balanced; reasonable length finish; reasonable intensity; reasonably complex.
    Conclusion: GOOD; can drink now – suitable for further ageing; MID priced (£ 9.99)

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  • 2001 La Rioja Alta Rioja Viña Ardanza Reserva Especial 92 Points

    Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alta, Rioja

    (3/18/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, medium garnet with a tawny rim. Clear legs evident
    Nose: clean medium(+) intensity aromas of red fruits, oak, mature savoury notes, developing/fully developed
    Palate: dry, medium(+) acidity, medium(+) tannins, medium body, medium level of alcohol (13.5%), medium intensity of flavour - red fruit, oak, mature savoury notes, medium(+) length finish
    Overall: very good balance, quite long, intense, complex
    Conclusion: VERY GOOD; can drink now - suitable for further ageing. HIGH price (£14.39).

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  • 2011 Tesco Finest Torrontés 84 Points

    Argentina, Valles Calchaquíes, Salta, Cafayate

    (3/19/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, pale lemon - pale rim; no real legs
    Nose: clean, medium(+) intensity, stone fruits(peach, apricots), lychees, rose petals, developing.
    Palate: dry/off-dry, medium acidity, medium body, medium intensity, medium finish, stone fruit(peach, apricot), buttery creamy texture; medium alcohol (13.0%).
    Overall: OK balanced; OK length finish; OK intensity; some complexity.
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now – not suitable for further ageing; MID priced (£ 6.99)

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  • 2012 Tesco Finest Navarra Old Vine Selection 84 Points

    Spain, Navarra

    (3/19/2014)

    Tasted Single Blind - under WSET 3 exam conditions (for practice). Presented with choice of 3 possible generic identities for the sample.

    Appearance: clear, medium ruby with a purple rim. Clear legs evident
    Nose: clean medium intensity aromas of red fruits(plum, cherry), some oak, spicy notes, developing
    Palate: dry, medium acidity, medium tannins, medium body, medium level of alcohol (13.0%), medium intensity of flavour - red fruit(plum,cherry), oak, spicy notes, medium length finish
    Overall: OK balance, OK length, some intensity, some complexity
    Conclusion: ACCEPTABLE; drink now – not suitable for further ageing. MID price (£6.99).

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Closing

21 May 2014 - Just had a call from BRR with my result: Passed with a Merit (Distinction on the Theory paper and a Merit on the Tasting paper). I now need to find an APP (ideally London/Berkshire/Hampshire based one) for the Diploma / Level 4 which BBR don't do. Any recommendations ?

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