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Comments on my notes

(125 comments on 78 notes)

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Red
2019 Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva Chianti Classico DOCG Sangiovese Blend, Sangiovese
2/18/2024 - Mortgage92 Likes this wine:
89 points
Although this wine as OK to consume, I will not replace it in my cellar, there are just too many other "Chianti" and sangiovese wines that I rank higher on the scale.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/19/24, 1:36 PM - Hi. Which other Chiantis do you rank higher? Didn't see much in your reviews for other Chiantis. Thanks.

Red
2010 Château Cantemerle Haut-Médoc Red Bordeaux Blend
2/28/2023 - Motz wrote:
94 points
Coravin access. Healthy pour, tasted alongside the same vintage Sociando-Mallet.

Light bricking.

Classic! Bouquet of all pleasant things Haut-Médoc (shading ever so slightly to the steely precision of Saint-Estèphe). Blackcurrant, pepper garden, graphite, mint, lit tobacco, black earth, coal, and mineral ores. Some secondary notes, nothing tertiary. One could linger over the purity and seamlessness here for a long while.

As rustic as Left Bank wines come since the gradual shift to modernity during the 1990s, which accelerated after 2005. Juicy, expansive, and gripping. Without excessive weight or edges at any phase. The back and finish feature exceptional poise. Medium plus acid, medium powdery to gritty tannins.

This bottle had a decade+ plus of graceful evolution ahead of it. Likely to enter maturity round or about 2035 and hold for several years. No reason not to check in on bottles now. Wonderful QPR! 93-94.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/28/23, 8:56 AM - Since you Coravined the bottle, are you planning to lay it down for a long period of time before finishing it? If so, how long you think it'll stay in tact after Coravin?

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/28/23, 7:02 PM - So if you take just half a glass via Coravin, you believe that wine would still be in tact 6-12 months later?

Red
2016 Fattoria Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva Chianti Classico DOCG Sangiovese Blend, Sangiovese
2/13/2023 - Bax62 wrote:
89 points
Opened up after 30-45 minutes in the glass. A bit atypical for Chianti Classico.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/15/23, 12:37 PM - I tried it 2 days ago and it was very different from 2 of my other Chianti choices wines. I am hoping it's just tooo young, but those 2 other wines are also 2016 vintage and also Riservas.

Red
2001 La Rioja Alta Rioja Gran Reserva 904 Tempranillo Blend, Tempranillo
2/13/2023 - libero wrote:
89 points
This 22 years old bottle is gone downhill, with a brownish color to high acid at finishing.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/13/23, 10:29 AM - Curious, did you purchase from store way back then or recently? How was it stored?
    thanks.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/13/23, 4:23 PM - strange ... well, I have the 2001, 2004 and 2005 of these and will open the 2001 soon to see what my experience is going to be. :-)

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/14/23, 12:34 PM - reading this, I can't believe how good the price was 6-8 years ago on these. I used to pay $40/bottle. Look at the prices now for these 904s. I just stock up on Ardanza at $30 which is not a bad option.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/14/23, 12:42 PM - haha ... never tried the 890, but do have a good number of bottles of Ardanza. Great pairing with Brie cheese ... if I am not opening red Burgundy.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/14/23, 1:42 PM - yea, I found it. :-) too rich for my blood. Ardanza will do haha.
    by the way ... email me at igormord@optonline.net ... always great to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts.

Red
2016 Fattoria Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva Chianti Classico DOCG Sangiovese Blend, Sangiovese
6/18/2021 - DavidWong168 Likes this wine:
91 points
No formal notes - remember it showed enticingly fresh red berries, had great balance, smooth tannins, and a long finish. Medium+ intensity and a very polished wine. Made a mental note to buy more.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/2/23, 5:29 AM - always enjoy your tasting notes and I believe we're neighbors in New Jersey. Hard to find like minded folks that can talk about wine for more than 5 minutes :-) any get togethers in the area?

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/13/23, 6:30 PM - hey, I did email you but didn't get a reply.
    I finally tried this wine. Didn't taste or smell like a typical Chianti. This is definitely too young and I'd say needs another 2-3 years in a bottle? Compared to 2 other recently drank Chiantis also from 2016 vintage.

Red
2016 Fattoria Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva Chianti Classico DOCG Sangiovese Blend, Sangiovese
2/28/2022 - Ortiz Brown wrote:
88 points
Incredibly rustic and herbal, from the nose to the palate to the finish, so much so that I thought maybe the bottle was corked. We didn’t get the fruit experience that others report here, but DBP’s notes of "herbs and worn leather” are spot-on. I like it for what it is, but (as a novice) I thought it was very different from other Chianti's we've had.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/13/23, 6:27 PM - I had the same experience with this one. Very unlike Chianti at least at this stage. By the way, also from NJ here. Northern part. what about you?

Red
2016 Fattoria Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva Chianti Classico DOCG Sangiovese Blend, Sangiovese
1/2/2023 - mwneil Likes this wine:
93 points
Tannin and pure fruit perfect together, 13.5% abv, medium body, drinks easily, drank with ziti with veggies in a tomato ricotta sauce, will drink again.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/2/23, 5:32 AM - always enjoy your tasting notes and I believe we're neighbors in New Jersey. Hard to find like minded folks that can talk about wine for more than 5 minutes :-) any get togethers in the area?

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/4/23, 1:38 PM - I get enough with 3 major wine stores within 5 mile radius from my house. Don't introduce Costco to my life please :-)) By the way ... if you're up for some wine tasting or get togethers in NJ/NYC ... email me igormord@optonline.net

Red
2016 Fattoria Viticcio Chianti Classico Riserva Chianti Classico DOCG Sangiovese Blend, Sangiovese
4/11/2021 - mwneil Likes this wine:
93 points
Drinking good, dark color shimmering, slight bouquet, good fruit with abundant acid and tannins that are smooth but noticeable, balanced as it opened, medium body, drank with loin veal chops, fresh fettuccine with marinara sauce, and sautéed pea shoots, would drink again, 2016 was a great year in Tuscany, the acid in this wine is great with meats and tomatoes.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/2/23, 6:26 PM - your neighbor again. I've also been purchasing this 2016 vintage but also been getting Red
    2016 Tenuta di Capraia Chianti Classico Riserva in quantity. Funny, they are almost same price at Bottle King and it's always a dilemma which to get for future drinking :-)

Red
2005 Château Branon Pessac-Léognan Red Bordeaux Blend
1/25/2022 - gtonn Likes this wine:
91 points
Vibrant, bright. Drinking very well
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:53 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    5/18/22, 6:07 AM - very interested indeed.
    Thanks.

Red
2013 Saxum Paderewski Vineyard Paso Robles Red Blend
2/20/2022 - markcic Likes this wine:
95 points
Wow just an awesome bottle of wine. Opened 5 hours in advance. Dark fruit on the nose. The palate was dark berries and red berries, red plums, tree bark, tobacco and a hint of spice. The finish is forever. The best thing is that I have 4 more in the cellar.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/24/22, 9:17 AM - Hey, don't mean to be a nag, but I didn't see you respond to my last post and was unable to find you on FB. Did you change your mind in chatting? :-)

Red
2011 Uccelliera Brunello di Montalcino Sangiovese
1/25/2021 - swlevison wrote:
93 points
A dull deep red color.
On the nose there are scents of red roses, baking spices and a little flint
On the palate, there are expressive flavors of red cherry, red plum and strawberry jam. It has a full body with med+ acidity, Med+ tannins.
It has a long finish with flavors of cherry and black licorice. This wine is drinking very nicely now, but can clearly rest for more time in the cellar.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 12:39 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles).

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/24/22, 9:10 AM - Thanks.
    Since you're in NJ, do you know of any wine tastings or gatherings happening around our area? Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. It's always great to taste wine with those that truly appreciate and can either confirm what I am tasting or share something I am not getting.

Red
2001 Larkmead Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
11/18/2012 - eastover wrote:
Sunday night at home with steaks. A very nice Cali Cab drinking at its peak.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 12:38 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles).

Red
1999 Cosentino Winery Mcoz Meritage Red Napa Valley Red Blend
4/20/2019 - wineman73 Likes this wine:
94 points
Garnet red in color with no bricking. Very aromatic with notes of cherry, huckleberry and black jelly bean. Medium tannins with medium acidity. Tasting revealed notes of cheery, boysenberry, dark fruits wit subtle hint of dark chocolate and leather. Still young and should age another 10 years. Score 94
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 12:36 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles).

Red
2009 Robert Keenan Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Spring Mountain District
11/29/2019 - bkay Likes this wine:
95 points
Drinking really well. Tannins very well integrated now
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 12:35 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles).

Red
2006 d'Arenberg Shiraz The Dead Arm McLaren Vale
1/4/2022 - markcic Likes this wine:
91 points
A bunch of us decided that since distance and covid concerns are separating us we would have a Tuesday night cocktail hour on Zoom. So I picked this wine and I opened the bottle and let it sit for about a half hour. Dark fruit on the nose. The palate is dark berries, cherry, plum, graphite and hints of spice. This wine would have scored higher with either a nice slow ox or decanting.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:38 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/13/22, 2:07 PM - wow, that's great. I always wonder where is that person who really cares about wine and lives nearby :-) Your cellar is amazing. Hope we do get a chance to share a bottle or two. I actually hate opening up a special bottle if it's not shared with others.

    I was searching for you on FB, but couldn't find. Feel free to email me igormord@gmail.com (i'll remove email in few days so that it doesn't get spammed). by the way .. I am Greg.

    P.S. Be honest ... were you the one who took the last 6 bottles of "2019 Henri Bourgeois Sancerre La Côte des Monts Damnés" at our Wayne bottle king? :-) I came by to buy more and only found 3 on the top shelf. Beautiful Sancerre.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 4:48 AM - not sure i was able to find you on Facebook, but this is my profile .. feel free to message there..
    https://www.facebook.com/igor.morekavich

Red
1998 Penfolds Cabernet Sauvignon Bin 707 South Australia
5/9/2021 - Hawk94 Likes this wine:
94 points
Nose is prefect, wonderful blackberry, violet, perfume like penetrating bouquet. palate is smooth, balanced, cream chocolate, vanilla, well integrated tannins, dark fruits, cedar wood, earthy, nuanced, a bit on acidic side in mid palate, smooth and harmonious finish. It did fade away faster than I thought in about 2hr. It may have passed its prime but still wonderful.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:46 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 7:36 AM - Thanks. By any chance do you attend wine gatherings, like a wine theme nights/tastings around NJ? I am in search of such events. Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. I was even thinking of hosting a small gathering at our place once weather is nicer to open the deck and enjoy wine with people that appreciate it and the outdoors.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/14/22, 7:42 PM - Well, you got one... me. :). Where in NJ are u?

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 4:42 AM - Since you're in NJ, do you know of any wine tastings or gatherings happening around our area? Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. It's always great to taste wine with those that truly appreciate and can either confirm what I am tasting or share something I am not getting.

Red
1999 Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
11/2/2019 - JKGarden Likes this wine:
92 points
Drank very well from the initial pour
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 8:36 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 4:42 AM - Since you're in NJ, do you know of any wine tastings or gatherings happening around our area? Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. It's always great to taste wine with those that truly appreciate and can either confirm what I am tasting or share something I am not getting.

Red
2002 Larkmead Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
7/14/2019 - JJ58 wrote:
A real wow...no bricking,beautiful fruit...amazing !
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:22 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/14/22, 6:58 PM - I am in Wayne NJ. You?

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/15/22, 5:15 AM - That is 50 min drive. Just enough time for wine to breath a bit :).

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 4:25 AM - Sure, that would be great. Feel free to text me or call... six, four, six, 406-28 one one. I am Igor.

Red
2001 Vineyard 29 Cabernet Sauvignon Aida Estate St. Helena
1/29/2022 - walkerjfw wrote:
92 points
A bottle (almost) forgotten in my cellar. A dusty bottle pulled while looking for something to perk up a casual dinner. Last of this vintage in my cellar, last note was 2012...:) Cork crumbled on the way out, strained and splash decanted. Valerie and I drank over 90 minutes.

Slightly faded garnet. Nose was showing during the decant - picked it up a couple feet away. Blue fruits, cassis, underbrush, leather on the nose. Smooth and rounded palate showing dark cherry, blueberry, baking spices. Blue fruits persist through the mid, showing some spice/pepper as well. Tannins are resolved and sweetened. Medium body and finish.

This bottle "made the journey", nicely aged, great texture, still expressive in the way you would expect from a 20+ yr old cab. The texture is notable. While I don't know the Merlot content from this vintage, guessing this is what is delivering the texture quality at this point. This is not likely to improve from here, this bottle seemed to have have few more years at this level - but I would drink up!
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:38 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 4:21 AM - Thank you for sharing ... appreciate it.

    Since you're in NJ, do you know of any wine tastings or gatherings happening around our area? Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. It's always great to taste wine with those that truly appreciate and can either confirm what I am tasting or share something I am not getting.

Red
1998 Château Mouton Rothschild Pauillac Red Bordeaux Blend
1/16/2022 - ipp Likes this wine:
93 points
drinking well. excellent balance, with beautiful harmony between tannins and acidity.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:49 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/21/22, 4:19 AM - Since you're in NJ, do you know of any wine tastings or gatherings happening around our area? Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. It's always great to taste wine with those that truly appreciate and can either confirm what I am tasting or share something I am not getting.

Red
2006 Rhys Pinot Noir Alpine Hillside Santa Cruz Mountains
5/1/2021 - ljl203 wrote:
92 points
Delicious at 15 years.. Purple garnet with browning edges. Forest floor nose. Plums twigs spices, lingering tannins.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 8:33 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/10/22, 4:41 AM - :-) ... I avoid looking at the "Wine Purchased" page on cellartracker and scrolling down to the total spent.

    Since you're in NJ, do you know of any wine tastings or gatherings happening around our area? Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. It's always great to taste wine with those that truly appreciate and can either confirm what I am tasting or share something I am not getting.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/12/22, 11:55 AM - Thanks ... I almost signed up to the WSET at that wine place, but leaning more towards the online option with Napa wines. We'll see. Appreciate you sharing these links with me. Keep me in mind if anything is happening locally. Heck, I may even do a small get together once we open up our deck ... kind of like a theme night ... Burgundy, Sancerre, Chablis? :-)

Red
2006 Bodegas y Viñedos San Roman Toro Viña San Román Tinta de Toro, Tempranillo
12/26/2021 - corkscrews Likes this wine:
91 points
Time has tamed this wine, lots of sediment, still delicious but drink now. www.winelx.com
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:54 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/10/22, 9:06 AM - :-) I try to be one as well.
    Since you're in NJ, do you know of any wine tastings or gatherings happening around our area? Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. It's always great to taste wine with those that truly appreciate and can either confirm what I am tasting or share something I am not getting.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/11/22, 3:53 PM - Thanks so much. Already signed up to all lists you suggested. Stay in touch.

Red
2007 Sine Qua Non Syrah Dangerous Birds Central Coast
10/28/2015 - dr mike Likes this wine:
95 points
Essentially a pop and pour. Rather muted at first, but within 30 or so minutes the fruit began to become more pronounced. Medium bodied with notes of blueberry, pepper and flowers. Not a show stopper, but a very nice syrah. 94pts
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 8:36 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 9:17 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-)

Red
2001 Dehlinger Pinot Noir Goldridge Russian River Valley
2/26/2018 - broadband00 Likes this wine:
90 points
Still great
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:45 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 8:05 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Would be great to learn from someone like you. Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-)

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 8:38 AM - Appreciate you sharing this info and please keep me in mind if there is a gathering in NJ. We would love to participate.

Red
2010 Fattoria La Gerla Brunello di Montalcino Sangiovese
1/26/2022 - BernieMSY Likes this wine:
94 points
1 hour decant.
Ruby color, black cherry aromas jump from the glass. Beautifully balanced. Lovely acidity offset by delicious secondary flavors and a bit of fruit. Peppery finish with moderated tannins. Time to drink ‘‘em if you got ‘em.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 8:37 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
2012 Dunn Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain
Double decanted for about 2 hours. In hindsight, wish I had given it slightly more time. As the person I was drinking with it said, this is somewhere in between blowing off the baby fat primary flavors and getting into its next phase. Developed some nice dark and red fruit flavor on the palate, but by no means is this a fruit bomb. Dusty tannins that are still very present. Very good but I won't even dream of opening my other bottle for another 10 years.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 8:34 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
2009 Domaine des Billards Saint-Amour Reserve Caveau Gamay
Beautiful cherry, raspberry, and touches of plum. Snappy acidity, medium bodied, and complex finish. This shows no sign of decline, but is drinking so well right now that you shouldn't miss it.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:48 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 6:50 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Would be great to learn from someone like you. Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-)

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 7:38 AM - great. I'll reach out. If you see any wine tastings or events in NJ, please let me know here. Would love to go.

Red
2018 Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
9/26/2021 - davidandrose Likes this wine:
89 points
20 minutes after opening there’s red fruit on the nose which is otherwise restrained. Tannins are present but quite soft and will integrated. This is a good, short term drinker as well priced at the $34 paid.
  • pianist718 commented:

    1/31/22, 6:57 PM - Does it bother you that on the back of the label it says "Vinted and bottled by Mount Veeder"? This means that they may have had little to do with making (growing, harvesting, etc) this wine. Just curious. Thanks.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 6:55 AM - David ... I appreciate the follow up. Thanks so much. I am still glad I bought 5 bottles. May even get a few more once I pop one open soon just to reconfirm what I tasted the first time. I know it will need a long decant.

Red
2006 Winter Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
11/30/2018 - AngryPrez wrote:
Spectacular and last bottle of a case
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:49 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you. P.S. loved your story about the bike tour.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 6:52 AM - That's exactly what I was looking for. Even planned to do some hosting closer to summer when we open up our deck, to enjoy the outdoors. Tell me more about your get togethers. Would be great to learn from someone like you. Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that.

Red
1986 Gaja Barbaresco Nebbiolo
7/9/2019 - Daniel & Amber wrote:
92 points
In a great and interesting spot. Would not have called this Barolo in a blind tasting as it had a mix of Burgundian fruit and Bordeaux earth features. Well above expectation
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:21 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 5:18 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Would be great to learn from someone like you. Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-) ... P.S. I've purchased from WineBid long time ago ...

Red
2002 Elderton Shiraz Single Vineyard Command Barossa
3/19/2018 - joeroth Likes this wine:
94 points
Still amazing after 15 years! Probably has 5-7 more years. In its prime.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 5:06 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:29 PM - I need a friend like you. :-) Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? We live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 2:45 AM - you mentioned wine podcasts ... which ones? I have been hooked on Wine Talks with Paul Kalemkiarian and UK Wine Show.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 5:16 AM - well, I guess now more to listen to on my morning walks. Thank you for sharing.

Red
1989 Château Lynch-Bages Pauillac Red Bordeaux Blend
1/29/2022 - rcg62 Likes this wine:
97 points
Two hour decant (definitely recommend 2-3 hours+). Nose is gorgeous, and really opened and developed with time. Color is ruby, fairly light but seemed to fill out a bit after decant. Big burst of flavors on the palate: cedar, lead pencil, leather, and dark fruit. Long finish. Drinking really well now but should have a long life. All class. And kind of amazing seeing 12.5%, but having all the size it has.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:15 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 5:14 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Would be great to learn from someone like you. Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-)

Red
2007 Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve Napa Valley
1/16/2022 - AAJR Likes this wine:
95 points
Decanted. Perfect cork, no sediment. Purple color with a fruitful nose. Flavors of blackberry, cassis, dark cherry & spice. Lite tannins but balanced with a 30 second finish. Really enjoyable, drinks like a young wine not one that is 15 years old. Lots of life left in this one, I have two bottles in the cellar will hold at least to 2027 before revisiting. Enjoyable now if you decide to try.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:59 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 4:31 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Would be great to learn from someone like you. Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-)

Red
1990 Marchesi di Barolo Barolo Millennium Nebbiolo
2/21/2015 - jcsf420 Likes this wine:
89 points
This was the third of 3 bottles that I purchased. One was horribly corked, one meh, so this one wasn't holding much hope in my eyes. I popped it tonight and to much surprise it was very nice, most notably with food. There was some sediment but not like the other bottles, big funk on the nose but blew off in the decanter after an hour. Reserved on the nose, dry and tart on the palate. A very good food wine!
EDIT: night two this was still going, maybe even slightly better, impressed!
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:44 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 4:21 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-)

Red
1998 Gaja Langhe Nebbiolo Sperss Langhe DOC
2/5/2022 - jsebiri wrote:
Open, decant, wait 4 hours , be rewarded. Well integrated, not a great nose but super smooth leather and fruit. Italian , Italian , Italian.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:47 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:57 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-)

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 4:18 AM - Definitely :-) Once it gets nicer outside and we open up the deck, I'll be sure to reach out. Till then, cheers.

Red
2007 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli Sangiovese
1/26/2022 - jshufelt wrote:
94 points
Consistent with previous tasting notes. Still in a nice place.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:41 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 2:53 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Would be great to learn from someone like you. Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-)

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 4:16 AM - well... you have way more bottles than I do. :-)

Red
2007 Patrick Jasmin Côte-Rôtie Syrah
12/24/2021 - lolo66 wrote:
92 points
with ample air this shows a nice mix of tart fruits, beef jerky, herbs and earth notes. in prefect place of primary and tertiary flavors. Give it some air though
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 4:01 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
2001 Martinelli Pinot Noir Moonshine Ranch Russian River Valley
1/21/2022 - tomoem Likes this wine:
92 points
Cloudy in glass with rich ripened strawberry fruit almost to the point of slightly rotted strawberry. Just so sweet and ripened. Man .... I love this type of Pinot Noir which shows that it could age.

Medium to full body. Bottle was opened for 90 minutes which I am sure helped this wine to reveal the fruit.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:56 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
2005 Bodegas Franco-Españolas Rioja Bordón Gran Reserva Tempranillo Blend, Tempranillo
12/27/2017 - Nyglobal Likes this wine:
92 points
Bought a case in 2016 for $27 bottle. This is one of the most solid historic Rioja Wineries. Great buy.

Wine holds really well.

Smell: berries flowers
Palate: full body but not bold no acidic oak chocolate
Finish: medium complexity warm
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:51 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
1999 Taken From Granite Élégance North Yuba Red Bordeaux Blend
12/26/2020 - jcha24 wrote:
Beautiful wine, fully resolved. Ton of very fine sediment so stand up well in advance and decant.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:50 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
1989 Paul Jaboulet Aîné Hermitage La Chapelle Syrah
10/19/2018 - Vinacull wrote:
96 points
Cork saturated to tip so I used Ah-So puller. P&P through screen to taster glass. Unbelievably youthful on both the nose and taste so I aerated to decanter and let sit an hour. Color is full/deep garnet , opaque at center, lightening to medium garnet with some bricking at rim, clear edge indicating glycerin, full body. Wide open classic aged Rhone aromas soar out of the glass from feet away, with grilled meat, leather, turned forest floor with funk of leaves, intense kirsch and sun-baked blackberries, an occasional iron note, olive, black pepper, and layers of earth. A knockout bouquet that makes your mouth water with the complex combo of fruit and savories. Nose is matched with full intensity flavors of baked plums, mashed blackberries, grilled meat, black olive, licorice, black pepper, leather, garrigue, earth. Medium level of acids still giving this freshness and high level of tannins that are largely integrated giving this a smooth and velvety feel throughout. Long finish of black fruits, meat, garrigue, and leather. Hard to imagine this bottle drinking better, and held together very well over 5 hours of following it. I think this could go another 20 years if stored with care. One to go.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:45 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
2009 Sine Qua Non Grenache Upside Down Central Coast
5/23/2021 - Screameagle Likes this wine:
95 points
Drinking great right out of the bottle. This is one of the best grenaches I've ever consumed. Love it
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:43 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
2000 Château Malartic-Lagravière Pessac-Léognan Red Bordeaux Blend
4/25/2013 - Battleship wrote:
93 points
Served after 2000 Haut Bages Averous with beef, but this one was jumping out of the decanter on initial pour with one of the best Bordeaux noses Ive smelled in a long time. This was much richer than the other and I think a few years will calm the still youthful big fruit down. That said no one would be disappointed now but 5 more years should show more of what you paid for.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:40 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. My wife and I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
1979 Château Figeac St. Émilion Grand Cru Red Bordeaux Blend
2/10/2021 - OTTMJ Likes this wine:
94 points
Wow...most of the fruit has dissipated but aromas of tobacco, leather and earth/mushrooms. Color was excellent with only a hint of bricking. Guests in attendance really loved it as most do not taste wine this old. Finish was decent with everything integrated. Fine wine from a subpar vintage. Doesn't seem to be on a down slope but not going to improve anymore.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 3:16 AM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
2005 Château Léoville Barton St. Julien Red Bordeaux Blend
10/8/2021 - Staufer Likes this wine:
93 points
we agree with previous entry .. almost surprisingly very enjoyable to drink now
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:35 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

  • pianist718 commented:

    2/9/22, 2:50 AM - I need a friend like you. :-) Our friends are not really into wine as much as I am, so no blind or theme based tastings for me until I find local folks that are into that. If I ever host a theme based tasting (closer to summer), would you be interested to come? Wife and I live in Wayne NJ. Just trying to find other guys that have been bitten by the wine bug to share wines with and impressions. By that time, I should be done with my WSET Level 2, maybe even level 3 certification :-)

Red
2001 Paolo Bea Montefalco Rosso Riserva Pipparello Sangiovese Blend, Sangiovese
3/26/2019 - BobBachus wrote:
94 points
Drinking very well - cork a little troubling before opening - thought I might have had a bad bottle, with some funk which blew off quickly. This was excellent - as the previous poster noted the Sangiovese is coming through strongly. Leathery and floral quite similar to a good Brunello. Mid length finish - 40 seconds. A fair amount of sediment. Cellared since purchase in 2005, and unfortunately my only bottle.
Paired with excellent pizza from Frank Pepe.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:47 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
2001 Capiaux Cellars Pinot Noir Pisoni Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands
8/26/2008 - njvin wrote:
90 points
Deep color with big nose. Taste of cherry and licorice. Could stand another year or two but drinking well now.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:46 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
1997 Joseph Phelps Insignia Napa Valley Red Bordeaux Blend
12/6/2009 - hyork wrote:
95 points
decanted for 45 minutes - dark, cassis flavors, smooth rich tasting, great finish - exceptional wine
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:44 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
1999 Silvio Grasso Barolo Vigna Giachini Nebbiolo
12/25/2015 - scotchman wrote:
93 points
Decanted for 3 hours. Wonderful bouquet and long finish. Still has some years left in it.
The wine looks ruby colored. The legs are medium. There is moderate sediment in the bottle. It smells like mineral. The body is medium. The wine has silky texture. The wine finishes medium. The wine has low acidity.
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:43 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

Red
1999 Pahlmeyer Merlot Napa Valley
3/26/2014 - iar wrote:
95 points
Surprisingly delicious. Very fresh, fruit forward and ripe, not on the decline at all. This bottle reminds me why Pahlmeyer merlot was so desirable and highly rated back in the days. There's mocha, toffee and black raspberry in a balanced wine with a distinctive but not excessive taste of oak. I haven't been drinking these wines for a while, and now I have an incentive to do so. CellarTracker says the current auction price is less than $40. If this wine can be purchased at that price (or less), it would be one of the best QPR wines available. Drink up and enjoy!
  • pianist718 commented:

    2/8/22, 6:42 PM - Hello fellow NJersian. Just curious how you get access to such great bottles. I have been in this wine hobby for the past 7-8 years, collected over 600 bottles, but most are young (not counting some Riojas, Cali Zins and few Bordeaux bottles). Thank you.

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