- > NW 2023 Xmas Roadshow
NW 2023 Xmas Roadshow
UK - Various Locations
Tasted Friday, November 10, 2023 by rikipedia with 76 views
Introduction
This was a taste through of all the winemakers showing there wines at the 2023 Naked Wine Winter Tasting.
Flight 1 - Gerd Stepp (4 Notes)
Flight 2 - Charles & Ruth Simpson (4 Notes)
2021 Simpsons of Barham Court Beora 91 Points
United Kingdom, England, Kent
(Short notes, Walkaround) A bright, aromatic nose with notes of croissant and light brioche, dusted with spices. Easygoing, clean, and fresh, the wine features light citrus notes, lending it a tighter, close-knit frame that complements the stony-fresh acidity and builds in pace towards its long finish. Very enjoyable.
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2021 Simpsons of Servian Barrique Sélection 89 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon
(Short notes, Walkaround) Produced from CY 548, the wine is full-bodied with intense toasty notes, a broad midpalate and creamy. Soft with light stone fruits, the wine has a fresh vein of acid and a fairly long finish. Slightly warming.
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2021 Simpsons of Servian Grenache Vieilles Vignes 89 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon, Vin de Pays d'Oc
(Short notes, Walkaround) Produced from a 60-65-year-old Grenache vine, the wine exhibits raspberry, Victoria Plum, and spice aromas, dusted with a hint of white pepper. Oily on entry, this medium-bodied wine is round on the mid-palate, with a mineral edge and lively acidity, while the finish gently warms. Lovely concentration.
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2020 Simpsons of Servian Syrah Cuvée MMXX Speciale 90 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon
(Short notes, Walkaround) Aromas of ripe black plum, Morello cherry, tar and as it opens, a noted furfuryl or roasted smoky aroma. Full-bodied, the mid-palate is round and smooth, with layers of rich, dark fruit gently spiced, complemented by lively acidity. Notable oak undertones need time to integrate, although I picked up a slight resin volatility that worked at the moment, but to check on in the future. Lovely concentration with a firm finish.
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Flight 3 - Benjamin Laroche (4 Notes)
2021 Benjamin Laroche Petit Chablis La Manufacture 89 Points
France, Burgundy, Chablis, Petit Chablis
Short notes, Walkaround) Light aromas of Bircher muesli join apple and lemon zest. A prickle of acidity on entry, with fine, straight lines, as yellow apple, mineral, and lemon zest offer an expressive and elegant palate, nourished by a light, creamy oatmeal texture. Finishes medium; very much approachable for early-drinking.
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2022 Benjamin Laroche Chablis La Manufacture 87 Points
France, Burgundy, Chablis
(Short notes, Walkaround) A little shy at first before vanilla, toast and lemon emerge. The palate has oatmeal with apple and boatloads of lemon notes. Rather waif-like and light bodied, the wine lacks mid-palate weight and wanders off to a light, pithy finish. Verging on pale and wan.
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2021 Benjamin Laroche Chablis 1er Cru Vau-Ligneau La Manufacture 92 Points
France, Burgundy, Chablis, Chablis 1er Cru
(Short notes, Walkaround) Again, Bircher Muesli aromas with light notes of white flowers, Russet apple, and Forelle pear, tempered by a leesy quality. Quite a pure wine with mineral-edged acidity, the wine is elegant and crisp yet tempered by warm porridge oats, lending a creaminess to the mid-palate. Persistent length, this is a smart Chablis 1er Cru that still needs time to blossom.
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2020 Benjamin Laroche Chablis 1er Cru Montmains La Manufacture 91 Points
France, Burgundy, Chablis, Chablis 1er Cru
(Short notes, Walkaround) More sawdust and toast on the nose with russet apple and mineral after some initial reduction. Dry, rather oak-infused with a mineral-edge texture and apple core. Good depth of flavour but without the concentration of the Van Ligneau. Heads to a long, crisp finish.
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Flight 4 - Francoise & Baptiste Gazeau (2 Notes)
NV Martial Richard Crémant de Limoux 90 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon, Languedoc, Crémant de Limoux
(Short notes, Walkaround) Made primarily from 70% Chardonnay blended with Pinot Noir and Chenin Blanc. Exhibits notes of apple and brioche, with hints of wet wool. A rather malic acid entry with lemon zest provides a fresh, elegant wine that features green apple and white peach notes, leading to a long finish that closes with shortbread crumbs.
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NV Martial Richard Blanquette de Limoux Brut 88 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon, Languedoc, Blanquette de Limoux
(Short notes, Walkaround) Grown at 400-500m elevation, the wine has floral gardenia notes with fruity aromas of Forelle pear, Gala apple, quince and honey. Light bubbles. A fresh, citric-edgy entry, there is a touch of honey to soften the mid-palate. Fresh and fruity, with a lovely creamy texture from its 30 months on the lees, rounding out the medium length.
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Flight 5 - Virgile Joly (4 Notes)
2022 Virgile Joly Bourret 88 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon, Vin de Pays d'Oc
(Short notes, Walkaround) Fragrant whiffs of blossom, Granny Smith apple and some pear. Light and airy on entry, with a glassy mid-palate, moments of pear flesh, greengage, and a shot of lemon towards the finish, keeping it fresh and lively. Very gulpable.
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2022 Virgile Joly Syrah Vin de Pays d'Oc 89 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon, Vin de Pays d'Oc
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby red with purple edges. Lifted balsamic aromas meld with sour cherry and red plum. Expressive and fresh, with vibrant red fruits on the entry, this medium-bodied wine features a savoury sprinkle of ground black pepper. Some spiced fruit notes in the mid-palate, paired with smooth, approachable tannins, give a nicely formed structure that has medium length, leaving a clean, peppery aftertaste.
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2021 Virgile Joly Côtes du Rhône Villages Plan de Dieu 90 Points
France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Côtes du Rhône Villages Plan de Dieu
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep ruby red with aromas of ripe berries, toasty oak and some spices - also a little coffee grinds. Again, expressive with notes of blackberry, mulberry, and boysenberry, dusted with spices and with a hint of torrefaction that shadows the mid-palate. A supple texture with well-integrated tannins that sit beneath the fruit without imposing, making the wine easy to drink. Leaves a medium to long finish, closing with spiced fruit again - more complex than the previous wine.
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2017 Virgile Joly Coteaux du Languedoc Saint-Saturnin 10eme Anniversaire 92 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon, Languedoc, Coteaux du Languedoc Saint-Saturnin
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep garnet colour suggests some maturity. Aromas of ripe blackberries, blackcurrants and damson plum intertwine with vanilla, spice, and minerals. A distinctly earthy style of wine, with darker fruit flavours adding a brooding sensation to the wine. Nicely accented by a spicy, vanilla-plum-like quality, with a more mineral-edged acidity that adds structure. The tannins are again rounded and soft, with a long, dry finish and a spiced berry aftertaste.
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Flight 6 - Frederic Maillet (3 Notes)
2021 Château du Bois de la Garde Côtes du Rhône 90 Points
France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Côtes du Rhône
(Short notes, Walkaround) A mid ruby red colour with aromas of black plum, ripe forest berries, accompanied by balsamic nuances, cigar box, warm gravel, and black pepper. Baked earthy notes on entry with slightly warmed blackberry and raspberry balanced by a mineral quality, lively acidity that leads to a rounded mid-palate with soft ripe tannins. Decent length with a touch of vanilla and light chocolate in the background, gently spiced - yet no oak, apparently more aged in larger foudres.
A blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Carignan.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2018 Château Jas de Bressy Châteauneuf-du-Pape 85 Points
France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape
(Short notes, Walkaround): 2018 Vignobles Mousset-Barrot Chateau Jas de Bressy Chateauneuf-du-Pape
A blend of Grenache and Mourvèdre. Deep garnet in colour with a slightly orange rim, the wine is slightly volatile on the nose at first. As it opens, it reveals notes of toasty oak, warmed stones, plum, dried orange peel, and a hint of petrol. A little over-developed, the wine has a generous entry with steeped cherry and spice emerging on the mid-palate, and it lacks acidity. There is also a mealy note to this full-bodied CNP. Powerful and a little overbearing, it towered up, rippled its muscles, and then skulked away.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2019 Domaine la Sousto Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vignobles Lucien Gabriel Barrot 90 Points
France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape
(Short notes, Walkaround) A Grenache-led blend of six varieties, although only 5 were mentioned…(80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 8% Mourvedre, with 1% of Cinsault and Vaccarese). I think this was matured in concrete eggs.
Pleasing purple flowers join sour cherry, blackberries, fenugreek and semi-dried clementine rind on the nose. The palate is robust and full-bodied, yet flourishing with bright red fruits, fennel, minerals, and dark chocolate. Fabulous concentration with a lively+ acidity, there is a vitality to the wine that I enjoyed. It finishes long with firm, gravelly tannins.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 7 - Matthias & Emile Roblin (4 Notes)
2021 Matthias et Emile Roblin Sancerre Origine Rosé 85 Points
France, Loire Valley, Upper Loire, Sancerre
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale salmon-pink colour with restrained notes, indeed some reduction at first before gradually revealing fresh strawberries and raspberries. Light-bodied, fresh, and fruity, with delicate red berries, this is an easy-drinking rosé; lacking much intensity, it concludes a little too quickly with notes of red apple and pear. Fun!
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2022 Matthias et Emile Roblin Sancerre Origine 87 Points
France, Loire Valley, Upper Loire, Sancerre
(Short notes, Walkaround) They mentioned this is grown on gravel soils. A multitude of primary fruit aromas, reminiscent of freshly picked flowers, Forelle pear, light granadilla, and white guava, mingle with a lovely mineral element. Fleshy fruit with lively acidity, the wine has a dry, slightly shortened finish, making it a crowd-pleaser. Quite a cool finish.
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2020 Matthias et Emile Roblin Sancerre Rouge Origine 89 Points
France, Loire Valley, Upper Loire, Sancerre Rouge
(Short notes, Walkaround) Medium ruby with pretty aromas of violet, spiced plum, black cherry and blackcurrant. Medium-bodied, chewy textured with some sweet plum on entry, the wine is lightly fruity with grippy tannins and is quite tight currently.
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2019 Matthias et Emile Roblin Sancerre Ammonites 92 Points
France, Loire Valley, Upper Loire, Sancerre
(Short notes, Walkaround) Ammonites is a top parcel of Sauvignon Blanc and named after Fossil shells found in the chalk soils of the area. A lifted fragrant nose of Gala apple, Forelle pear and minerals. A poised, crisp, precise wine that has a crisp acidity and an intense chalky grip to it, tightening up the mid-palate to the fruit beneath. Needs time to open. Medium-length, this is already an excellent wine with further potential.
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Flight 8 - Katie Jones (4 Notes)
2021 Katie Jones Picpoul de Pinet Sur Lie All Good Things 90 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon, Languedoc, Picpoul de Pinet
(Short notes, Walkaround) Light, toasty aromas pair with Bartlett pear and crème fraîche. A lovely, creamy, rich, leesy entry, the wine has a broad mid-palate as honeyed pear and Russet apple join quince and apricot, while a lovely fynbos/herbal tone sits atop all, guided by fresh acidity. Warming with spicy elements, it culminates in a long finish.
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2021 Katie Jones Les Vignes Cachees 92 Points
France, Vin de France
(Short notes, Walkaround) Lightly perfumed with yellow flowers, lemon and some apple blossom with a hint of parmesan cheese! More apples on entry, where a lively acidity and grippy pear skin texture work with a mineral quality to give a backbone to the wine. A touch of lemon zest, dill, and light spices adds complexity as this concentrated wine proceeds to a long finish. Easygoing yet intriguing, the wine works rather well.
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2020 Katie Jones La Gare Old Vines 89 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon
(Short notes, Walkaround) A lovely, intense nose of raspberries, stove-top cooked plums, crushed black pepper and toasted herbs, all with a thin drizzle of aged balsamic. The palate enters warm with hot gravel, cayenne spice, and some softened preserved fruits. Generous and a little coarse in the mid-palate, with a chilli pepper spiking and a rather mild acidity accentuating its rich texture, pushing the balsamic towards a caramel toffee. Soft, slightly shapeless tannins aid some structure, and the wine has concentration as it lingers to a medium finish.
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2020 Katie Jones Carignan La Gare Old Vines 91 Points
France, Languedoc Roussillon
(Short notes, Walkaround) An open-knit wine with warm gravel, fennel bulb and brambles. Supple, loose tannins sit alongside blackberries to give a richness with a lively acid that works itself to a dry, grippy finish. A little bitter edge slightly blunted its length. Fairly robust, this has excellent concentration expected from 100-year-old, low-yielding vines.
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Flight 9 - Dominic Hentall (4 Notes)
2021 Dominic Hentall Saint-Véran 91 Points
France, Burgundy, Mâconnais, Saint-Véran
(Short notes, Walkaround) A fresh ripe wine with toasty oak and crushed nuts alongside white peach and Gala apple. A soft, rich entry of pulpy stone fruits and apple puree is balanced by bright acidity and an emerging mineral quality that tightens up the mid-palate nicely, leading to a long, chalky finish.
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2021 Dominic Hentall Terra Rosa Puglia IGT 90 Points
Italy, Puglia, Puglia IGT
(Short notes, Walkaround) A light copper rose to onion skin colour. Raspberries, white pepper, Williams pear, minerals and a touch of stone fruits. Quite an intense entry with a lovely phenolic grip assuaged by a slightly creamy texture and fresh red fruits. A vibrant acidity persists through to the long finish. Rather good.
A blend of Negroamaro with some Primitivo.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2021 Dominic Hentall Terra Calda Puglia IGT 92 Points
Italy, Puglia, Puglia IGT
(Short notes, Walkaround) Lovely intensity on the nose, with oak spices, toasted nuts, plums, pepper, and a hint of balsamic. The old vines give a fabulous concentration, and there is mid-palate depth with warm plum and blueberry fleshing out the core whilst firm, compact tannins give a solid frame to the wine.
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2018 Dominic Hentall Sicilia Terra Nera 92 Points
Italy, Sicily, Sicilia
(Short notes, Walkaround) The Nero d’Avola spends 20 months in French oak, of which 5% is new wood. Aromas of black plum, wild forest berries and a hint of tilled soil are sprinkled with dry spice, black pepper and some toasty oak. The entry is smooth and oak-driven, with a complex wine profile complemented by notes of crushed almond, caramel, and vanilla, leading to a sumptuous mid-palate that extends to a lingering finish. Rather good, framed with smooth, gently rubbing tannins. A modern interpretation done well.
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Flight 10 - Stefano di Blasi (4 Notes)
2022 Stefano di Blasi Vermentino 87 Points
Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT
(Short notes, Walkaround) Attractive floral notes of white flowers are joined by white pepper and greengage. Crisp and fresh on entry, the wine is clean and vigorous with a dry, chalky finish, making it a lovely, easy-drinker.
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2021 Stefano di Blasi Bianco da Uve Leggermente Appassite 86 Points
Italy, Sicily, Terre Siciliane
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep fragrant notes of yellow flowers and musk sweets join tangerine, lychee, kumquat, and honeydew melon.
Intense, the fruits are ripe and lifted yet lack much mid-palate depth. The lively acidity complements the warmer, ripe fruit style, which tapers off fairly quickly.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2021 Stefano di Blasi Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 84 Points
Italy, Abruzzi, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
(Short notes, Walkaround) Whilst the aromas are earthy, with notes of sour cherry, loganberry, and liquorice, a distinct balsamic note emerges, riding into volatility here and distracts. Ripe and intense on entry, the wine is complex, with some toasty oak and spices, even a hint of melted chocolate. Yet, the tannins are puckering, giving the back palate a relatively dry, gravelly sensation that truncates its length.
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2021 Stefano di Blasi La Speranza Toscana IGT 91 Points
Italy, Tuscany, Toscana IGT
(Short notes, Walkaround) Smoky aromas entwine with sour cherry, blackberry, raspberry and loganberry. Gently spiced on entry, the wine has some density and definition, providing focus as the granular tannins lend structure and the lively acidity underscores. A lovely wine fleshed out with berry fruits that gathers spicy attributes, even some pepper, and feels tight and compact in its delivery.
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Flight 11 - Serena Cordero (4 Notes)
2021 Serena Cordero Chardonnay Oaked 90 Points
Moldova
(Short notes, Walkaround) Lovely, expressive nose of flint, peach, and apricot, with some toast. A purity on entry with a lovely minerally mid-palate, fresh acidity and light toasty oak with a twist of spice. Decent finish and one of my first Moldovian Chardonnay's!
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2021 Gianfranco & Serena Cordero Gavi 88 Points
Italy, Piedmont, Gavi
(Short notes, Walkaround) A light-bodied, mineral-edged Cortese with white pepper, spice and some dried straw. A crisp acid in the mid-palate leads ot a medium finish.
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2021 Gianfranco & Serena Cordero Barbera d'Alba Superiore 93 Points
Italy, Piedmont, Alba, Barbera d'Alba Superiore
(Short notes, Walkaround) A fresh, fairly expressive wine that has a fragrance with notes of chocolate, red cherry and berries and a sprinkle of spices.
A rich mid-palate featuring sour cherry, typical of Barbera, driven by a vibrant acidity, savoury spice, and a long finish. Really smart.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2019 Gianfranco & Serena Cordero Barolo 89 Points
Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Barolo
(Short notes, Walkaround) Dried rose and earthy notes with some toasted breadcrumbs. Medium-bodied, the wine has a sour cherry acidity with red berries leading to a dry, rising tannic finish that concludes sooner than expected.
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Flight 12 - Franck Massard (4 Notes)
NV Franck Massard Cava Mas Sardana Cava Brut 86 Points
Spain, Cava
(Short notes, Walkaround) Light gold colour with fine bubbles.
Expressive nose of lemon, soft herbs, crushed nuts, light peach and apple with a touch of earth. The palate exerts a light, chalky grip, while underneath lies a creamy texture. Dry in style, the wine boasts vibrant acidity and some stone fruit notes, but fails to excite, instead going through the motions of a typical Cava. Medium length.
A blend of Xarello, Parellada, Macabeo.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Franck Massard Cava Mas Sardana Cava Rosado 88 Points
Spain, Cava
(Short notes, Walkaround) A bright, fruity nose with red berries, light honey and some oak spices. Continues fruity on the palate, with freshly picked strawberries complemented by Gala apples, and a lively, fresh acidity gently pushes it along. Simple but effective.
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2019 Franck Massard Priorat Bellesa Perfecta 93 Points
Spain, Catalunya, Priorat
(Short notes, Walkaround) An interesting earthy, undergrowth character with a diesel oil/orange pekoe tea leaf typical of Roussillon. Warming with a cherry compote and blackcurrant core, some toasted almonds, tilled soil that runs to a velvety mid-palate texture with a line of lively acidity that makes it more elegant than expected. Long finish, this is rather good.
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2021 Franck Massard Priorat Retrat 94 Points
Spain, Catalunya, Priorat
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep, brooding wine with an earthy core and chocolate-coated fruit that fills the mid-palate with Morello cherries, raspberry and licquorice complemented by firm, dry tannins and a lingering finish. Fab length, this is very smart.
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Flight 13 - Oscar Aragon (3 Notes)
2021 Cillar de Silos Ribera del Duero Rosado 86 Points
Spain, Castilla y León, Ribera del Duero
(Short notes, Walkaround) A light rose petal colour, clear and bright. Fragrant aromas of strawberry, herbs and spicy undertones. Light-bodied, the wine is elegant, fresh, and fruity, with crisp acidity and a pronounced strawberry character. It finished a little short with a phenolic edge that sticks out. Refreshing
Made from Tempranillo aged between 15 and 75 years. Fermented in steel tanks and matured on lees for 3 to 5 months,Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2020 Cillar de Silos Ribera del Duero Joven 91 Points
Spain, Castilla y León, Ribera del Duero
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep ruby colour with a youthful expression of Bing cherries, briary fruits and loganberries, complemented by hints of sourdough and vanilla. A ripe, fleshy entry with flavours of tobacco, earth, and darker fruits, supported by soft, supple tannins. Fairly intense, the wine is long with a dusty quality and closes with a sprinkle of spice.
Unoaked examplePost a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2019 Cillar de Silos Ribera del Duero Crianza 90 Points
Spain, Castilla y León, Ribera del Duero
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby red with earthy-tinged aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant, and black plum, this wine is complex, featuring toasty oak, dry spices, chocolate, and some notes of older wood. The palate follows suit with a lively acidity, earthy undertones, and a dry, grippy tannin slightly softened by the cocoa powder and toasty oak. Medium to long, that toasty note persists (perhaps too toasty?).
100% Tempranillo matured for 13 months in French oak.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 14 - Tom Puyaubert (3 Notes)
2021 Tom Puyaubert Rioja Flor de luna 90 Points
Spain, La Rioja, Rioja
(Short notes, Walkaround) A pale straw-yellow colour that initially has prominent oak and vanilla notes that eventually subside to reveal ripe lemon and white peach.
A juicy acidity with a grippy texture, the flavours mirror the nose, with more oak and vanilla emerging to spar with citrus, sweet stone fruit accents, and some Forelle pear. Nicely structured with a medium finish that leaves with a squeeze of lemon.
Made from Viura grapes aged in oak.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2022 Tom Puyaubert Rioja Flor de luna 85 Points
Spain, La Rioja, Rioja
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep ruby-purple colour with a pronounced oaky influence of furfural and toast. Subtle hints of red berries barely manage to push past the wall of oak.
A dry entry with grippy tannins with an oak presence that overshadows the raspbery and stone fruit flavours. A juicy acidity helps, but the wine lacks much depth, whilst the alcohol is slightly prominent, contributing to a perception of heat on the back palate. Medium length with minimal fruit expression.
Grown on the slopes of Monte Agudo, this is a blend of Tempranillo and Grenache with a touch of Viura.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2021 Tom Puyaubert Rioja Flor de Luna Vendimia Seleccionada 87 Points
Spain, La Rioja, Rioja
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep garnet with a purple rim. Ripe baked fruits of raspberry, blackberry, spice cake and aged balsamic with a slight raisin note and subtle oak nuances. A medium-bodied wine with a juicy acidity that has more spices and ellagic oak on the entry than expected. A firm, rather puckering tannin pulls the finish up short. Quite tight at the moment.
A blend of Tempranillo and Graciano.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 15 - Luis Vieira (4 Notes)
2022 Luis Vieira Montaria 90 Points
Portugal
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale straw yellow with greenish reflections. An inviting, expressive nose of fragrant herbs, lemon verbena, lychee and Turkish delight. The lemon verbena takes centre stage on the palate as a grippy, chalky acidity adds refreshment. Nicely balanced, the wine is persistent on the finish and leaves a clean, citrusy impression with a touch of minerality.
A blend of indigenous Portuguese grape varieties, including Arinto sourced from vineyards around Lisbon.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2022 Luis Vieira Vinho Regional Alentejano 91 Points
Portugal, Alentejano, Vinho Regional Alentejano
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep ruby colour with aromas of red berries, chocolate, and plum enhanced by fragrant tea leaf and rose petal. A polished, plush charming wine with a lovely balance of lively acidity, supple texture and lingering finish with a delightful impression of red fruits.
A blend of 60% Alfrocheiro, 30% Alicante Bouschet, and 10% Touriga Franca sourced from the Alentejo region of Portugal.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2021 Montaria Vinho Regional Lisboa Reserva 88 Points
Portugal, Lisboa, Vinho Regional Lisboa
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep ruby colour. Intense aromas of ripe loganberries, redcurrants, and blackberries, complemented by dark chocolate and spices. A rich, broad entry dominated by a wealth of fleshy fruits underpinned by a juicy acidity and granular tannins that add structure. Medium in length, it closes with ripe berries and a touch of chocolate from the oak. On the lightweight side.
A blend of Syrah, Trincadeira and Aragonez.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2020 Luis Vieira Montaria Gold 92 Points
Portugal
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby with a slight purple rim. Plenty of toasty oak and smoky aromas but equally a fair showing of ripe damson plum, Morello cherry and black pepper. Full-bodied with a lively acidity and a plush, succulent mid-palate, showcasing concentrated flavours of dark fruits and spice. The oak influence is well-integrated, adding depth and complexity, and the finish lingers.
A blend of indigenous Portuguese grape varieties, including Syrah from the Alentejo regionPost a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 16 - Oscar Quevedo (5 Notes)
2022 Vinhos Oscar Quevedo Vinho Verde Radiante 85 Points
Portugal, Minho, Vinho Verde
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale straw with a slight CO2 spritz, characteristic of Vinho Verde wines. Fresh, fruity aromas are dominated by lemon, white grapefruit and clementine with a mineral note and Granny Smith apples. A light-bodied, crisply acidic wine with fresh flavours that mirror the nose with an invigorating medium finish. Easy-going, crowd pleaser.
Made from AzalPost a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2020 Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo Douro Reserva Rosé 88 Points
Portugal, Douro
(Short notes, Walkaround) A pale pink colour with ripe fruits of red berry and damson alongside toast and spice. A rich entry, this Rose is warming with soft, fruit mid-palate, a lively thread of acidity with plum, raspbery and soft herbs. A little simple but enjoyable.
A blend of Tinta Roriz (50%), Touriga Franca (25%) and Tinta Francisca (25%) that is partly fermented and matured in neutral oak barrels.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Vinhos Oscar Quevedo Porto White Port 89 Points
Portugal, Douro, Porto
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale straw in colour, this wine has a satisfying bouquet of apple puree, roasted nuts, a smear of honey and caramel, and baked peaches. With a harmonious balance between sweetness and acidity, it is a full-bodied example with a rich, creamy texture leading to a rounded finish.
A blend of traditional Portuguese grape varieties, including Gouveio, Malvasia Fina, Moscatel Galego, Rabigato, Donzelinho, Viosinho, and Códega do Larinho. Destemmed, followed by a slow temp controlled fermentation.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Vinhos Oscar Quevedo Porto Late Bottled Vintage 88 Points
Portugal, Douro, Porto
(Short notes, Walkaround) My note was partially spoiled, but I made out that the wine is rich and fruity, with that spiced fruit character, pleasant acidity, and firm tannins to balance the noted sweetness of the LBV. It is full-bodied.
The blend is typically Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz, along with some other indigenous varieties. Matured partly i tank and partly in woodPost a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Vinhos Oscar Quevedo Porto 10 Year Old Tawny 93 Points
Portugal, Douro, Porto
(Short notes, Walkaround) Mid orange-brown in colour, it has beckoning aromas of dried figs, prune juice, warm spices, and dates, with a light heady floral note. Rich and intense, the mid-palate is sturdy and deep, with granular tannins and well-integrated sweetness. Notes of Christmas pudding and coffee grinds leave a long, smooth finish of dried spiced-edged fruits. Fabulous!
A blend of portuguese grapes that include Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Barroca, and Tinto Cão. Aged in 650-litre neutral oak casks for about 12 years.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 17 - Dessert & Spirits Table (4 Notes)
2022 Domaine des Deux Vallées Coteaux du Layon 87 Points
France, Loire Valley, Anjou-Saumur, Coteaux du Layon
(Short notes, Walkaround) A bright golden yellow with a bouquet of softened Bosq pear, toffee apple, apricot preserve and acacia honey, all indicating subtle hints of botrytis. A medium-bodied wine with a noted residual sugar is offset by a bright acidity. The mid-palate is enriched by a dribble of acacia honey, toffee apple and raisin, all adding depth and complexity. Not overly long but pleasant, leaving a lingering sweetness and a hint of dried fruit.
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2018 Lucien Lurton & Fils Sauternes 88 Points
France, Bordeaux, Sauternais, Sauternes
(Short notes, Walkaround) A bright yellow-gold colour with floral-edged aromas and prominent apricot, yellow peach and nectarine that is melded with candied orange, sultana and ginger that suggest the presence of botrytis. A sweet, focused entry with plenty of apricot preserve and candied ginger with a light herbal tea infusion and some creamed fynbos honey. Full, sweet with a modicum of acidity and generous alcohol, the mid-palate lacks some depth, leading to a shortish finish. A tad gloopy.
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2018 Gerd Stepp Silvaner Eiswein 89 Points
Germany, Pfalz
(Short notes, Walkaround) Mid gold with pleasant aromas of yellow apple and pear alongside some tropical pineapple and peach notes.
A refreshing and energetic acidity balances the sweetness, and there is some floral frangipane to Turkish delight in the mid-palate. However, this rich wine is correct if it is a little one-dimensional profile. A medium to long finish leaves a pleasant impression of orchard and tropical fruits.
Silvaner grapes are harvested at temperatures below -7°C.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Casa Pedro Domecq Pedro Ximénez Jerez-Xérès-Sherry Viña 98 91 Points
Spain, Andalucía, Jerez-Xérès-Sherry
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep mahogany colour with pronounced notes of raisins, dried figs, dates, dried orange and prune juice accented by puff pastry. Rich on entry as expected this PX is concentrated with a sweet and unctuous viscosity that envelops the mouth.Flavours of melted dark-ish (50%) chocolate, raisins, and dried fruits dominate yet a refreshing acidity tries to keep it in check. Relatively long and indulgent.
Sourced from sun-dried Pedro Ximénez grapes. Matured in a solera systemPost a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 18 - USA Table (4 Notes)
2020 Scott Peterson Chardonnay Rox 85 Points
USA, California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale yellow in colour, it has subtle toasty notes, a mineral undertone, and light tropical fruit. The palate has a peachy and nectarine quality, with hints of oatmeal and a touch of sawdust, but the wine remains light and frothy with a mild acidity. It is a little short, with the flavours dissipating quickly and a little clunky on the back palate.
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2021 Matt Parish Rosé Contra Costa County 90 Points
USA, California, San Francisco Bay, Contra Costa County
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale salmon-pink in colour, it has delicate aromas of fresh strawberries and cherries with a touch of raisin and citrus peel. The palate is round, juicy, and highly approachable, with softened strawberries and a squeeze of lemon juice adding to the crisp minerality leading to a lingering finish.
A blend of Carignan and Mourvèdre grapes that are over 100 yrs old?Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2020 F. Stephen Millier Zinfandel Black Label Old Vine Lodi 86 Points
USA, California, Central Valley, Lodi
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep ruby colour with notes of ripe purple plum, blackberry and raspberry with a dried spice edge - bay leaf or sage. Quite inky. A sweet fruited entry is typical of Zinfandel with a juicy core, loose tannins and a fairly expressive fruit dimension that is spiced-edged. However, the show is over quickly, and the finish is relatively short.
Sourced from Lodi, the Zinfandel are old vinesPost a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2020 Jesse Katz Cabernet Sauvignon Exposed 92 Points
USA, California, Sonoma County, Alexander Valley
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep garnet colour, the wine has aromas of ripe blackcurrant, blackberries, dried berries, and fig, with a slight sage and dried herb quality. The entry is full-bodied, intense, and rich, with concentrated flavours of dark berries balanced by a welcoming, lively acidity. Packed with fruit, this wine has some light toast and vanilla notes, with a mid-palate that is dense and powerful, polished and upfront, featuring smooth tannins and a lingering finish. Very much a steak wine and done well!
Sourced from Sonoma’s Alexander Valley, this is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot matured in French oak for 24 months.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 19 - Natalia Poblete (2 Notes)
2018 Casa Bauzá Atrevido 92 Points
Chile, Maipo Valley
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep ruby colour with lifted notes of blackcurrant and menthol freshness intertwined with black olive, toast and a touch of spice.
The palate entry has a Ribena-like intensity, fleshy texture and commendable length. Soft, crushed velvet tannins and a wealth of sweet blackcurrants, accented by ground black pepper, are balanced by a juicy acidity, making this a delightful wine.
A blend of 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Petit Verdot, 21% Syrah, 16% Carménère, 11% Carignan, and 3% Cabernet Franc all matured for 16 months using nearly half Stockinger French oak foudres (2,500 L and 5,000L) with the other half in French oak barrelsPost a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2022 Natalie Poblete Merlot 89 Points
Chile, Rapel Valley, Colchagua Valley
(Short notes, Walkaround) Bright mid+ ruby with straightforward aromas of gently steeped Morello cherry and black plum dusted with sweet spices, smear of vanilla and some chocolate in the background. The primary and secondary notes play nicely, and the wine is mid-bodied and highly approachable, with fresh fruit flavours and soft creamy tannins, making it an easy-drinking wine. Decent finish.
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Flight 20 - Marcelo Bocardo (2 Notes)
2022 Marcelo Bocardo Malbec 91 Points
Argentina, Mendoza
(Short notes, Walkaround) A deep ruby colour with inviting aromas of ripe dark plum, Morello cherry and bilberries accented by light spices, tobacco leaves and cocoa beans.
The palate is round and approachable, with a smooth, chocolatey texture balanced by juicy acidity that leads to a succulent mid-palate and is framed by powdered stone tannins. A medium to long finish that closes with a puff of smoke.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2022 Marcelo Bocardo Malbec Reserve 93 Points
Argentina, Mendoza
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby in colour with aromas of dark plum, red cherry and blackberry.
Full-bodied with a thick, rich texture and cocoa powder tannins, the mid-palate is coconut-infused, and a lively acidity underpins the wine. It is an attractive wine with plenty of fruit and mid-palate breadth with appealing chocolate and oak spices. It doesn't feel ellagic-ridden but has a fruit tannin that feels earthier and a powdered stone quality that just rises above many a Malbec. A long-lasting impression on the finish - this is rather good.
From organically grown 10 to 100-year-old vines in Mendoza.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 21 - Kobie & Faisal (4 Notes)
2022 Moerbei Sauvignon Blanc 89 Points
South Africa, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch
Short notes, Walkaround) Pale straw in colour with notes of greengage, English gooseberry and pineapple slices with a touch of mineral.
The palate entry is bright with fruit and fleshy exhibiting a refreshing acidity uplifted by a lemon zest quality. It has a linear, chalky finish, closing with a pronounced gooseberry pulp.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2021 Villion Chardonnay 90 Points
South Africa, Cape South Coast
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale straw with flecks of gold, the aromas are toasty with ripe spiced apple, Meyer lemon, and a touch of white peach. Fairly intense on entry, this rich, mid-bodied Chardonnay has a lovely lemon acidity and a core of stone and orchard fruits accented by toasty, buttery and vanilla oak notes. A touch of citrus sugar on the finish adds a pleasant sweetness.
Matured for 11 months in 300L selected French Burgundian oak barrels (24% new).Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2019 Moerbei Shiraz Sable 90 Points
South Africa, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby colour with aromas of blueberries, blackberries and pepper, dusted with some sweet spices. The rich palate entry is smooth and velvety, with a slightly toasty, almost toffee-like edge and subtle spices. Sweet-fruited, the wine is a classic Shiraz, being forward and approachable, with a mid to full-bodied profile, concluding with a relatively short finish.
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2019 Moerbei Director's Reserve 88 Points
South Africa, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep garnet colour with plenty of high-toned aromas of blackcurrant, balsamic-encased strawberry, cigar and cedar. The wine is open-knit with a lively acidity, slightly earthy sour cherry and soy sauce note that makes the wine a little elevated, which may not appeal to all palates. Fairly full-bodied.
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Flight 22 - Reenen Borman (4 Notes)
2022 Boschkloof Chenin Blanc - Colombard 92 Points
South Africa, Klein Karoo, Montagu
(Short notes, Walkaround) Expressive floral aromas on the nose with lemon zest, fresh herbs, granadilla and minerals. A light-bodied wine that brims with tropical and citrus fruit, balanced by a lively acidity to refresh the wine. A mineral backbone provides structure, resulting in a crisp, clean finish with a subtle touch of positive phenolics. Highly enjoyable!
A blend of 68% Colombard and 32% Chenin Blanc.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2021 Boschkloof Merlot 93 Points
South Africa, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby in colour with aromas of forest fruits, raspberry, and loganberry. A soft and creamy entry, silky in texture with a lively thread of acidity, this is a smooth and highly approachable wine that is layered with toasty oak, vanilla pod, and the barest hint of chocolate, and further enhanced by a pleasant, earthy savouriness that makes the wine complex and not just fruity. Very long and satisfying finish.
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2019 Boschkloof Syrah 90 Points
South Africa, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby with a light purple hint on the rim. A complex bouquet with violets, blackberry and raspberry, dusted with sweet spices, dried herbs and jostling with a toasty oak influence. Full-bodied with clean acidity and grippy leather-edged tannins that hold a core of darker fruits with blackcurrant, blackberry and pepper. The oak is still quite pronounced but contributes to a soft, round mid-palate. It needs some time in the bottle to open up, as it seems a little languid.
15% of the blend is whole-bunch. Matured in 10% new French oak for 14 months.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2020 Boschkloof Conclusion 94 Points
South Africa, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep garnet with a vibrant ruby rim. Intense blackcurrant, graphite, and ripe plum aromas intertwine with sweet blackberry, cigar box and dried herbs. A full-bodied wine, lively in acidity and with plenty of grippy tannins to provide structure, it is surprisingly rounded in the mid-palate, leading to a velvety texture surrounded by sweet dark fruits, macchiato foam and a hint of liquorice. A long, dry, and persistent finish concludes this well-balanced Cab-led wine, which manages to strike a balance between structural elegance and depth, offering promising ageing potential.
A blend of 39% CS, 25% Merlot, 18% CF, 18% Syrah. 35% new French oak matured for 20 months.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 23 - Richard Kershaw (4 Notes)
2021 Richard Kershaw Wines Chardonnay The Cutler
South Africa, Western Cape
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale straw with delicate aromas of Bramley apple, Forelle pear, and chilled Galia melon with a hint of vanilla extract and white flowers.
A lovely broad entry features yellow apples, pear pulp, and sweet yellow peach, cut with a tight acidity that adds tension alongside minerals, sherbet, and chalk, lending a spine to the whole wine. Bone dry, there is a pithiness to the mid-palate, a juicy core of fruit and some gentle spice.
Refined, elegant and long. No rating as conflict of interest.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2021 Richard's Chardonnay Elgin
South Africa, Cape South Coast, Elgin
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale daisy-yellow in colour with spiced apple, Forelle pear and apricot with some gardenia flowers. The entry is zippy, with fresh mineral-edged acidity brushed with a light, toasty oak character. Medium-bodied, the mid-palate fills out with a wealth of yellow cling peach, poached pear halves, orchard fruits and tinned fruit cocktail. The texture is pithy, with a hint of Seville orange, clove, and sea salt. A clean wine with a long farewell. No rating as conflict of interest.
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2021 Richard Kershaw Wines Barbera The Cutler
South Africa, Western Cape
(Short notes, Walkaround) It is pale purple-crimson in colour. The nose presents fragrant violet, crème de cassis, and red cherry notes, accompanied by ground pepper and dark spice, with some savoury tinges emerging as tilled soil and hung game.
Medium-bodied, the entry is intense with a velvety texture and a mid-palate filled with sweet raspberry (ice slurpies!), cassis, and dark 70% chocolate. Delicate, linear with a vibrant injection of acidity that gives a frame to this supple tannin wine. It finishes long with some maraschino cherries, macchiato foam and a positive grapefruit bitterness. No rating as conflict of interest.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2020 Richard Kershaw Wines Syrah The Cutler
South Africa, Western Cape
(Short notes, Walkaround) Mid-crimson-purple with pristine aromas of bright red fruits, white pepper, toast and baking spices, whilst underneath a wild note adds complexity. A bright entry with clean, crisp acidity, a powdery texture, and penetrating red and black fruits opens up on the mid-palate, where spice joins pepper, boysenberry, fruit-infused tea, and black plum, along with a hint of vanilla and black raspberry. Medium-bodied and elegant, an energetic gait lends this Syrah buoyancy and depth, culminating in fine-grained tannins, a hint of pepper, and redcurrant notes that extend into a lengthy finish. No rating as conflict of interest.
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Flight 24 - Jen Pfeiffer (4 Notes)
2020 Jen Pfeiffer Shiraz The Diamond 92 Points
Australia, Victoria, Central Victoria
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby, the nose opens to ripe plums, bilberries, and blackcurrants, underscored by a gentle hint of vanilla. A soft and approachable palate displaying ripe fleshy dark fruits, raspberry jelly powder and sweet creamy oak nuanced by vanilla. Very much a fruit-forward, easygoing style with finely polished tannins and a lingering length. More medium than full-bodied it retains a mild to lively acidity to keep it moving.
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2020 Jen Pfeiffer Cabernet Sauvignon The Diamond 89 Points
Australia, Victoria, Central Victoria
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby-purple with aromas of blackcurrant, wood smoke and toasty oak that feels deep and brooding. Ripe black fruit flavours dominate the palate, and the fruit has a savoury quality with earthy smokiness. The acidity is lively, with a blackcurrant skin texture. Oak is relatively present, but the mid-palate feels slightly restrained compared to the initial burst of flavour. Relatively firm, drying tannins, this medium-bodied wine has a tighter, more linear profile that finishes moderately long but more in the puckering zone.
Grapes sourced from Heathcote, Rutherglen, and the King Valley. Matured in French oak barrels for 14 months.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2021 Jen Pfeiffer Durif The Diamond 91 Points
Australia, Victoria, Central Victoria
(Short notes, Walkaround) Impenetrable, dark and inky purple colour. The nose is packed with ripe blackberries, blackcurrants, and plums caressed by dark chocolate and vanilla pods - very inviting! It is a bold, upfront, richly textured wine with a deep core of sweet black fruits smeared in a melted chocolate and vanilla mix. Wonderful concentration. Firm tannins provide structure, and a slightly puckering sensation on the back palate suggests its youth and ability to resolve in a bottle over the next few years—a lingering finish.
Sourced from two low-yielding Rutherglen vineyards, of which 20% heads into new French and American oak and the rest is used oak. Matured for 18 months.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Jen Pfeiffer Muscat The Diamond Rutherglen 90 Points
Australia, Victoria, North East, Rutherglen
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep amber with mahogany hues, the nose explodes with dried fig, butterscotch, and candied orange intertwined with caramel and treacle. The palate is rich and syrupy, delivering layers of fig jam, caramel, sultana and raisin with a delicate citrus lift from the caramelised orange. The sweetness (260g/l) is balanced by a velvety texture reminiscent of a Pedro Ximenez style from Spain, with a lingering note of Demerara sugar and treacle. Noted, RS, the wine is mouthcoating and exceptionally long - luxury in a glass!
The grapes are left to raisin on the vine, concentrating sugars and flavours, before being fortified and matured in barrels.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 25 - Josh Pfeiffer (2 Notes)
2021 Breaking Grounds by Josh Pfeiffer Shiraz Barossa 91 Points
Australia, South Australia, Barossa
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby-purple in colour. Ripe aromas of blackberries and plums mingle with a distinctive peppery spice, complemented by cooling alpine herbs and a minty menthol character.
A big, bold Shiraz showcasing rich dark fruit flavours, ground black pepper and some savoury notes. Lovely depth, the wine is full-bodied and with firm tannins. It is a reasonably ambitious style that is executed with flair and considerable length.
Josh Pfeiffer makes this from the Barossa Valley from Hampel and Alkina vineyards.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2021 Breaking Grounds by Josh Pfeiffer Shiraz Langhorne Creek 92 Points
Australia, South Australia, Fleurieu, Langhorne Creek
(Short notes, Walkaround) Deep ruby-purple. A youthful nose with fragrant aromas of ripe blackberry, cassis, and dark cherries gently sprinkled in spices. It is an approachable wine filled with soft blackberry and plum, a trace of dark chocolate and spiciness. Subtle power, with satin-like tannins, contributes to a smooth and velvety mouthfeel that lingers with notes of spiced black fruit, resulting in a very harmonious finish.
The Shiraz is sourced from a single vineyard of nearly 30-year-old vines. Soils are alluvial flood plains of Langhorne Creek.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 26 - Rod Easthope (3 Notes)
2021 Darnault & Easthope Sauvignon Blanc 88 Points
France, Vin de France
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale yellow-green with a vibrant nose of green fruits, guava and grenadilla, accompanied by lemon and English gooseberry aromas. A rich fruit-forward wine that accents more tropical elements of peach and guava, subtly complexed by poached pear, kumquat zest and minerals, reminiscent of wet tiles. A focused medium-bodied wine with a crisp acidity to line its frame and a juiciness to the core. Lingering and very approachable, closing with a refreshing citrus zest - interesting wine!
A collaboration between French winemaker Benjamin Darnault and New Zealand's Rod Easthope. Part sourced from a French vineyard.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2022 Rod Easthope Pinot Gris 89 Points
New Zealand, North Island, Hawke's Bay
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale straw-yellow with a softly fruited, inviting nose of ripe pear and greengage plum, with detectable fragrant and citrus blossom. Easy entry with peach and Gala apple, this medium-bodied wine has a lively acid thread and is very approachable. Reasonably long it closes with orchard fruits and a squeeze of lemon.
Sourced from four vineyard parcels within the Hawke's Bay region.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
2022 Darnault & Easthope Merlot Rosé 91 Points
New Zealand, North Island, Hawke's Bay
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale salmon pink in colour with an inviting nose of fresh strawberries and cream, intertwined with delicate rose petals and a hint of quarry dust minerality. A vibrant palate is brimming with juicy red berries, particularly strawberries, nuanced by floral tones and a lime-zest freshness. Chalky in texture with an invigorating acidity, it keeps the light-bodied wine flowing towards a long-ish farewell.
A collaboration between French winemaker Benjamin Darnault and New Zealand's Rod Easthope.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
Flight 27 - Sparkling (5 Notes)
NV Jen Pfeiffer The Rebel Bubbles 87 Points
Australia, Victoria
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale gold with fine, persistent bubbles, the aromas of which feature subtle notes of brioche, crushed oats, and almonds, complemented by lemon, pear, and chilled melon. A soft, sweet, fruity entry with a lovely Cox apple flesh, grapefruit, and white nectarine is underscored by a creamy oatmeal and toast texture that follows through a crisp, almost steely acid, giving a refreshing finish, albeit the shorter side. Easy drinking crowd-pleaser.
A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Col de L'utia Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore V 1.0 86 Points
Italy, Veneto, Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale straw colour with a fine, persistent mousse. Floral aromas scented with pressed flowers, minerals, ripe Forelle pear, Granny Smith apple and green citrus. The entry is crisp and fresh, with notes of orchard fruits, a hint of peach, and a short, stony finish. A touch of sweetness balances the acidity of this pleasant and approachable Prosecco.
Made by Paolo Sacchetto from Glera grapes sourced in the Valdobbiadene region, this wine is produced using the Charmat method.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Benjamin Darnault Crémant de Bourgogne Vigneron's Wife 86 Points
France, Burgundy, Crémant de Bourgogne
(Short notes, Walkaround) A very pale rose-yellow. Earthy aromas meld with ripe peach, fresh orange zest and some light strawberry. Fairly intense, the entry is more red fruit-focused on the palate, with raspberry, pastry crumbs, and Pink Lady apple coming through - also a strawberry cream centre, like in a box of chocolates. Sweet and fruity with a lively acidity, it is again a little short on finish but very approachable, closing with pulpy apple and a squeeze of lemon. Crowd-pleaser.
Made by Benjamin DarnaultPost a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Famille Lieubeau 1816 Brut 92 Points
France, Loire Valley
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale straw with a fine mousse. Aromas of peach and nectarine are enhanced by brioche, melted butter and sliced Gala apple. The entry is crisp and tight with a chalky texture and a lovely underlying creaminess from the lees. Stone and orchard fruits oscillate in and out with a shot of lemon juice as the wine progresses to a long farewell. Rather elegant and refined, this is in a good space right now.
Produced by Famille Lieubeau, the name "1816" pays tribute to Joseph Gregoire, the first Lieubeau, who was abandoned as an orphan in Nantes in 1816. A blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Folle Blanche from 30-year-old vines grown on granite bedrock. Matured for 18 months on lees.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
NV Jean Philippe Moulin Champagne Brut 92 Points
France, Champagne
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pale gold with a fine, lasting mousse. Citrus and green apple complement expressive aromas of brioche, toast and Marmite. A dry entry with sharp acidity is softened by savoury nuances and buttery puff pastry under which a lovely creamy lees texture sits. A long, refreshing finish with flavours of Meyer lemon and satsuma, predominantly accompanied by some lighter notes of peach and tart tatin on the close. Complex and elegant.
Made by Jean-Philippe Moulin, former winemaker of Ruinart, Mumm, and Baron de Rothschild. A blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, aged for six years on the lees.Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No
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2021 Gerd Stepp Cuvée Blanc 91 Points
Germany, Pfalz
(Short notes, Walkaround) It is intensely pale green-lemon in colour. Fragrant aromas of lychee, white peach, yellow flowers, and lime lead to a clear, lemon-lime entry with bright acidity, a fairly full mid-palate, and more Riesling aromas than anything else. Tight and racy with lime juice, this is refreshing and vibrant, finishing long with a smear of creamed honey.
Blend of 50% Riesling, 35% Pinot Gris, and 15% Gewürztraminer.
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2021 Gerd Stepp Kalkstein Riesling 93 Points
Germany, Pfalz
(Short notes, Walkaround) Perky aromas of lime blossom, flowers, salted lemons, and minerals/slate. A vibrant acid entry to this narrow-shaped wine with a fantastic persistence through the length is filled with Green apple, chilled white melon, lemon peel and a squeeze of lime juice. Bright, upright and long. Fantastic!
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2021 Gerd Stepp Pinot Noir Rosé 89 Points
Germany
(Short notes, Walkaround) Pretty lifted notes of strawberry, chalk dust and a light raspberry the wine enters with a crisp acidity softened by creamed strawberry and accented with a chalky texture to the mid-palate. Simple, easy-going with a refreshing gait and a crisp, refreshing finish. Very much a crowd pleaser.
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2021 Gerd Stepp Pinot Noir *8* 90 Points
Germany, Pfalz
(Short notes, Walkaround) Whilst there is a lovely plum fruit with raspberry and strawberry preserve there is aquite a bit of toasty oak and spices. Medium-bodied Pinot, the wine has a lovely textural feel with a sour plum acid edge and dry mid-palate, with tannins building towards the finish. There is certainly plenty of fruit, and with the oak encasement, this should slowly shed its toasty notes and integrate over time in the bottle.
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