Harley1199

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• lukeintowine says:

  4/2/2024 1:58:00 PM - Hola Harley, thanks for becoming a friend. For a long time I enjoyed reading your tasting notes! Your depth of knowledge is admirable. Very good observation of the changing dynamics on this platform also.. Habló un pocito de castellano, pero vale no hablo mucho en los años pasados... ¡Hasta la próxima!

• Bandreas says:

  11/10/2023 11:43:00 PM - Muchas Gracias Don Manuel for your recommendation. I will see to it that I visit Yarra Yering when i Melbourne.. Stay well; we hope to see you again when we are in Spain on a more permanent basis starting with Spring 2024 Cheers Bernard

• Bandreas says:

  11/10/2023 12:47:00 PM - Mon Amigo Manuel: Thank you for your straightforward answer to my question! That is what I was looking for. I will raising my first glass of Australian wine in Australia to your special health in about three weeks ! Cheers and stay well! Bernard

• Bandreas says:

  11/9/2023 6:18:00 AM - Hello Manuel, I do not know if you have seen Jancis Robinson's recent comments in the Financial Times where she writes about the new, non-fortified, Palomino Fino wines from the Sherry region.. in particular she mentioned "Territorio Albariza" and wines made by Niepoort; she thought that many of the wines she recently tasted were "quite thrilling" Have you tasted any of these wines? If yes which ones would you recommend? We are presently on our way to the Far East but will be back in Spain in March next year and I'd be interested to hear your opinion... Best regards and " Cheers! Bernard

• Bandreas says:

  8/3/2023 11:28:00 AM - Hello Manuel, thank you for reaching out. Unfortunately this year we will not make it to Madrid; we are presently busy to arrange for our relocation from Washington to Europe. In between we are visiting Australia and New Zealand at the end of the year. so, you may see some tasting notes on wines from those regions. We'll be back in Europe full time in 2024 and hope to see you - either in Madrid or Malaga/Marbella - then. Stay well and stay cool! Best regards Bernard

• El_Dougo says:

  9/29/2022 4:45:00 PM - Thanks for connecting… Your profile had me at hello and your notes cinched the deal (as did the multiple AN references). Lived in Madrid for a couple of years when I was young, by the way (and Sevilla, and Mallorca). Aunque soy muy gringo me encanta la vida espanola! Saludes de Hong Kong!

• Bandreas says:

  9/24/2022 9:18:00 AM - Muchas Gracias Manuel por todo! Ha sido fantastico. Hasta la próxima en Malaga ! B&B

• Harley1199 says:

  7/12/2022 12:23:00 AM - That is all you need ... More than enough.

• Bandreas says:

  7/11/2022 2:52:00 PM - Dinner at 9 would really be great... And yes, I am working on my Spanish skills. I can already say: Una botella de vino, por favor... Looking forward to hopefully meeting you soon!

• Bandreas says:

  7/11/2022 1:28:00 PM - Hello Harley, thanks for your quick reply. With our American friends and my wife we are 4. If you want to bring a companion that would bring the party up to 6. Otherwise we are 5. We understand that Spanish dinner times are different.. would just ask if we could start dinner a little bit earlier than your regular ones so that we do not risk to fall asleep at the table....

• Bandreas says:

  7/11/2022 10:46:00 AM - Hello Harley, I got the dates of our stay inn Madrid now: We will arrive on the 22nd September in the evening and depart on September 25 in the morning. This would leave us the following space for meeting : September 22 for dinner, September 23 and 24 for either lunch or dinner. Hope you can make it for one of these openings! Best regards Bandreas

• Bandreas says:

  7/7/2022 6:49:00 PM - Hello Harley, thank you for reaching out! we are still on track with our trip and are looking forward to hopefully meeting you in Madrid in September. will you be there? Can you give me your e-mail address so that I can communicate with you from my cell phone when we are in Spain. Best regards Bandreas

• fc1910 says:

  4/20/2022 5:47:00 PM - Buenos Dias a la capital! He estado en esta maldita tienda de paquetería un total de 3 veces! Aquí en Alemania muchas veces operado por migrantes sin conocimiento, no aleman, no ingles, no castellano, no...........! Estoy totalmente molesto ahora! DPD es el peor remitente de paquetes! Nadie aqui sabes donde esta el paquete o esta mirando esta! Me voy a Suiza hoy con mi Pony, una cata de Bordeaux 1982 esta esperando al lago de Biel! No tengo una idea que pasa con esta paquete ahora, lo siento! Un Abrazo desde el Norte

• Bandreas says:

  1/31/2022 7:05:00 PM - Thanks for the recommendations Harley! We will be in touch as we get a bit closer to our trip. Hopefully we can meet up and share some bottles and experiences!

• Bandreas says:

  1/31/2022 9:18:00 AM - Thank you very much Mr. Harley, for your quick response and your input! We look forward to hopefully meeting you in Madrid when we are there. Could you recommend a couple of restaurants in Madrid for us? we are not so much into the "molecular" type of cuisine but like a more moderate and conservative (classical) approach. The same goes for our taste in wine: Lots of oak and lots of jammy fruit is not what we are after.... Muchas Gracias!

• Bandreas says:

  1/30/2022 9:55:00 AM - Hello Harley, this is Bandreas; we communicated last year about the wines of Ximenez-Spinola and I mentioned that we would be traveling in Spain with some American friends... We now know that we will be in Madrid between September 23 and September 25, 2022. If you are happening to be in Madrid at the same time we would like to meet up for a glass of wine or two, if you have time.. We will also be in Rioja for two days. On our list for tastings there are Lopez de Heredia and Bodegas Lecea. What other two wineries are -from your point of view - to be recommended ? Thank you for your advice! We are looking forward to hopefully meeting you in person.

• fc1910 says:

  12/24/2021 3:34:00 AM - Hola Madrileno! Te deseo a ti y a tu familia desconocida una feliz navidad! Mantente firme y sigue disfrutando de muy buen vino! Un abrazo desde el frio

• Vinomazing says:

  12/8/2021 8:24:00 PM - Happy Holidays, wishing you and yours joy and good health into the New Year!!

• FEDEVIDAL says:

  11/16/2021 3:34:00 PM - Gracias por tu comentario. Lo del ozono lo pongo cuando me recuerda a aire puro, limpio, cristalino, ya ves. de todas formas fue un vino impresionante. saludos

• bestdamncab says:

  10/28/2021 9:16:00 PM - I tasted Red Burgundy with Clive Coates and he was kind enough to sign all 4 of his books for me.

• bestdamncab says:

  10/28/2021 5:51:00 AM - Thought of the day: Wine is like Duct Tape, IT FIXES EVERYTHING!!!!

• bestdamncab says:

  10/28/2021 4:45:00 AM - Clive Coates "The Vine" is still a favorite read of mine as is Adventures on the Wine Route by Kermit Lynch. having been to all the First Growths, Petrus twice, and DRC once, I would say your Dream Wine musings are similar to mine in many ways.

• Bandreas says:

  6/14/2021 10:53:00 AM - Hello Harley, thank you for your kind comments. I was going to send you a message but have accidentally deleted your notes... Anyway: Can you tell me where you are residing in spain? Next year I will be traveling through Spain( from North to South - Bilbao to Marbella - with some American friends. Would like to share a glass of wine with you if your time permits and our route comes close to where you live... Cheers Bandreas

• macaujames says:

  1/16/2021 9:47:00 AM - I agree! The Bosconia 2007 is delicious and as you already very well know it is more aromatic, elegant and silky. You are the Spanish connoisseur not me!

• macaujames says:

  1/16/2021 5:57:00 AM - Harley.Belated Happy New Year 2021! The Vina Tondonia 2007 is much improved. I scored it a delicious 91. Stay safe!

• StefanAkiko says:

  1/11/2021 5:08:00 AM - You're still going strong! Good to hear :-)

• fc1910 says:

  12/23/2020 7:43:00 PM - Hola de nuevo Madrileno! Te deseo feliz Navidad y despues un prospero ano nuevo! Un abrazo desde el Norte

• macaujames says:

  5/23/2020 10:15:00 AM - Harley the LRA Vina Ardanza 2010 Seleccion Especial is memorable I've noted it as a 93/94. Its getting on profound. Have you tried the new vintage, it has the normal acidity and vibrancy of the older vintages. So will be Spanish food friendly! Chapeau!

• Monsieur le Comte says:

  5/22/2020 7:56:00 AM - "My pleasure Señor el Conde ... il hope it wasn't a serious reason Cheers" I had to learn for my exams... Now I'm a teacher!^^CHEERS

• FransS says:

  5/9/2020 2:36:00 AM - Dear Harley1199, Future is often interminable, so I have already tasted the '17 La Forest. Soon I will start with the '12 and '13. Waiting for the right moment can be a risk, but you can also become rewarded. Yesterday I've uncorked the 2000 Fonroque and it was a joy. Greetings FransS

• macaujames says:

  4/12/2020 7:22:00 AM - About the 904 2005 there was a bit of coconut but I aerated it 8+ hours so it was much reduced. Keep safe Harley!

• Danthejuiceman says:

  6/29/2019 12:03:00 PM - Unsure of what you meant. I do appreciate your taste and writing style.

• Danthejuiceman says:

  6/29/2019 5:39:00 AM - "unctuous, dense, abusive and agglutinating". So much information in so few words

• Harley1199 says:

  12/31/2018 7:46:00 AM - Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year to all my CT friends ������������ Feliz Navidad y un Próspero Año Nuevo para todos mis amigos en CT ������������

• fc1910 says:

  12/19/2018 10:12:00 AM - Hola Madrileno! Un medio ano sin fc1910 a ct,......, si te has preguntado que ha pasado......, un hombre viejo, poco vino, con tres palabras: la maledita salud. Te deseo feliz navidad con saludos cordiales desde hamburgo

• StefanAkiko says:

  8/23/2018 9:20:00 PM - We've simply drifted more and more towards Japanese cuisine and saké. Beautiful, beautiful drink! No need for storage and never cork damaged :-) ...on top of that, a small glass of Cognac whilst reading or otherwise cultivating the mind. Enticing!

• StefanAkiko says:

  8/22/2018 12:21:00 PM - As the last few years have left me in a state of DIFFICULTY in enjoying any btl of wine... It's so hard to be impressed and even ”interested”. Sake [Nihonshu] has provided some fresh happiness. But... I must confess that Cognac is really the shit! One glass of the good stuff can get me through three chapters of any great book :-) How are you these days? Really looking forward to enjoying a fabulous person-to-person evening together with you. /S

• Softie says:

  7/3/2018 1:52:00 AM - Harley, My suggestion is that this wine is developing tertiary characters so slowly just space out your remaining bottles. If you have just one bottle left, wait two years for my next review, if you wish! John

• Enfantterrible says:

  2/26/2018 10:33:00 PM - Hola Harley, I’m in Geneva now in case you’re interested in the 04 Numanthia. Would be great to tap your knowledge of Rioja some day. Cheers!

• Homer Holland says:

  8/19/2017 2:40:00 PM - Thanks for your TNs of La Rioja Alta Rioja Viña Ardanza Reserva. And I like your dream wine 1966 DRC Romanée-Conti and the wine people you in trust, but what about Michael Broadbent and okay he is not specialized in Burgundy, but he is my God of All Wines.

• fc1910 says:

  6/4/2016 7:03:00 AM - Hola Manuel, saludos cordiales desde el verano de Hamburgo......., tenemos una cata grande hoy en mi casa! Que surpresa......., con tu uva preferida, el magnifico Riesling! Todas las 24 botellas blindada, pero hey....., somos alemanes! Sabemos que tipo del vino esta en el vaso! :-) y con unas botellas de Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) tambien, para alterna la cata! de leer de nuevo a cellartracker en unos dias.........

• Sergio Casado says:

  5/20/2016 11:05:00 PM - Hola Manuel, el 25 tengo una cena por lo que lo veo complicado. Tendría que haber acabado la cata a las 21.00. Un pena, pero con tan poco margen es complicado. Gracias y un abrazo

• Sergio Casado says:

  3/29/2016 10:15:00 AM - Hola Manuel, Muchas gracias por acordarte de mi. Me lo comentaron ayer, pero no va a poder ser en esta ocasión, ya que tengo pactado un cupo máximo de catas con mi mujer....además me ha surgido un viaje Paris. Gracias y que disfrutéis de la cata

• fc1910 says:

  2/28/2016 2:09:00 PM - Hola Madrileno, fue para 10 dias hasta hoy por la noche a Dubai visitando unos de mis hermanos donde trabaja alli. Para estar totalmente relajado no he leyendo E-mails, noticias o SMS. Por eso ahora estoy contestando todas las preguntas sobre actividades en el futuro! la idea a comer y acompanar Senor Harley al restaurante Arzumendi al viernes de 11.03. por la tarde o noche me encanta mucha. Un saludo atrasado desde hamburgo!

• fc1910 says:

  2/13/2016 5:33:00 AM - Hola......, sera un gran placer para mi......., un saludo desde hamburgo

• fc1910 says:

  1/14/2016 1:56:00 PM - Hola de nuevo Senor....., y un feliz ano nuevo! Bueno, me voy a viajar otra vez a Bilbao en el proximo marzo, de 08 hasta el 15.03......, y vamos a tener una cata de Riesling , su cepa blanca preferida del mundo ;-) ......., y por favor si usted tiene tiempo....., y ....., o tiene ganar de tomar buen vino de Riesling de Alemania usted esta bienvenidos! Por favor llamar el 12 glotones a Bilbao para mas informationes sobre esta cata........, y yo me voy a enviar unas cajas de Riesling a Bilbao!Y claro que si, unas mas botellas de Dönnhoff tambien! Un saludo desde Hamburgo

• sastewart says:

  12/24/2015 8:12:00 AM - Thanks for the comment, I agree that the 2004 Pintia has a long life ahead. I will wait several years before drinking my other bottle!

• fc1910 says:

  12/19/2015 3:31:00 AM - Hola de nuevo Senor, el restaurante se llama Meson Galicia, esta en el barrio de Harburg de Hamburgo. Esta en el sur de la ciudad cerca donde yo vivo! Los propetarios son de Galicia y la calidad de la comida es muy bueno con muchas especialidades. Me gusta mucho el raxo! Los hombres de esta familia siempre viajan a Espana para comprar buenos vinos! un saludo!

• Soteriologist says:

  9/14/2015 2:51:00 PM - Hola companero ! I just tasted a totally over-aged joven 1998 Ugarte Rioja, and the result is a lot of fun: www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=2145389. In that TN I included the link to a little video I did on this, too. For a joven that is probably far too old, but the funny thing is that this Tempranillo now tastes like a Pinot Noir, jajaja!

• Ron Van Holland says:

  9/1/2015 10:06:00 AM - Thanks for feedback on 2001 LRA Ardanza. Looking forward to tapping the 2001 904, which I see you hold in abundance.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  6/16/2015 7:02:00 PM - Hi Harley1199. Pleased to see Muga, in particular, in your "magnificent seven". We started sipping Spanish wines 3 years ago and very impressed. A member of the Muga family visited our home this year for dinner. Definitely "magnificent"! We very much like the big labels, i.e. Pingus, Vega-Sicilia, Alvaro Palacios, etc, but especially impressed by their seconds. Somontano special!

• Monsieur le Comte says:

  3/26/2015 7:37:00 AM - funny avatar photo..I also am a big oak gourmand, great!^^

• EhrlichDY says:

  3/10/2015 3:21:00 AM - Harley - Regarding the 2001 LdH Tondonia Riserva, have you tasted it and do you have a different impression? I just read your note and it seems pretty much in line with mine although perhaps the wine is giving a bit more pleasure now than it did a few years ago. There can also be quite a bit of bottle variation with LdH wines.

• RichardP says:

  3/4/2015 4:43:00 PM - Harley1199, re: 1998 La Rioja Alta Rioja Gran Reserva 904; "Not to my taste" because of the pickle juice element, which some people don't mind but doesn't appeal to me. "Bottle variation" because what I found doesn't match what other people seem to be describing. "Missing something good" -- good for whom, exactly? Not for me, at least not in this bottle. I hope the next one is better.

• texanoblues says:

  2/27/2015 9:10:00 AM - Hi Harley. Thanks for your comment about 2004 Vina Ardanza, and for posting such a wonderful biography. Previously, I had considered only three factors to be important for great wine: grape, land (including climate), and people. Particularly, I have found that I really enjoy wines that are made from grapes that have evolved in a particular region and that are vinified by people who have evolved in that same region and adhere to the traditions and culture of that region. Consequently, Rioja reds, Hermitage Syrahs, and Barolo/Barbaresco nebbiolos are all wines that I find magical. To me, they are mystical and powerful images of the ancient histories of the regions and cultures that gave them life. Images that become a part of us, and alter us, as we consume them! Is it any wonder that red wine is one of the sacred sacraments...After reading your biography, it occurred to me that I had neglected consideration for what is perhaps the most important, powerful, mysterious force that creates these wines that we love (as well as creating and changing ourselves): TIME. You are absolutely right. Eternal thanks for your insightful post.

• Drankard says:

  1/25/2015 5:44:00 PM - I don't understand your comedy, what does my mum or dad have to do with my tasting note?

• jnewman77 says:

  1/21/2015 3:59:00 PM - Harley - thanks for the comment on the Matrot Monthelie. I paid $32 US for it (in the non-wine friendly state of Utah). I think it delivers pretty nicely for that price, especially given that from quality producers now its hard to find village level wines under $50-60…

• andtheodor says:

  12/11/2014 12:48:00 PM - Harley, do you know what the Murrieta "Etiqueta Blanca" bottling is? It seems they stopped making it in the early 80s but I can't figure out how it was different from their other wines.

• empire80 says:

  9/27/2014 6:47:00 AM - Fair point on the laughing magpie - definitely better today after a night in the decanter - have upgraded 1 point. Cheers!

• Onthelees says:

  9/20/2014 11:01:00 AM - One more thing. I have a recurring image that I am walking carefree through a vineyard, the soil crunchy under my feet. I want to find that place and have imagined it was in Spain. Have you walked in such a place?

• honest bob says:

  9/19/2014 12:05:00 PM - Thanks for your comment on my TN for the Vina Ardanza 2001. I probably marked the Rioja Alta GR 901 too conservatively the other day, but I always tend to rate on the low side when drinking from unfamiliar glasses, and especially in restaurants. It was definitely a stellar wine, and a fabulous bargain at only 35 EUR dining out in Logrono... I wish there were restaurants with wine lists like that at home in Germany!

• Onthelees says:

  9/18/2014 8:35:00 PM - Thanks for your comments on the Ayala champagne. My first time tasting it, will seek out and try aging a few bottles. After reading your profile, I might take you up on Spanish wine advice. I love smoky Tempranillos but I am a little challenged with the language.

• fc1910 says:

  9/3/2014 10:05:00 PM - Hola de nuevo Senor Harley, me voy con mi novia al pais vasco en la primera semana de octubre a mostrar la la cocina famosa a Bilbao y Donostia. Y claro que si a tener un poco vacaciones.........., por favor, me gustaria comprar unas botellas......., tu conoces una o mas tiendas buenas en esas ciudades? saludos desde Hamburgo

• StefanAkiko says:

  8/5/2014 8:06:00 PM - Dear H, please send me your CV. I don't use LinkedIn or any other social network thing (apart from CT). My email is stefan (at) sottelbin . se As you were not home, I routed my return trip via some friends in Paris this time. But there will come other times for us to meet up :-) Enjoy!

• StefanAkiko says:

  8/5/2014 12:44:00 AM - Dear Harvey, I will drop by other times as well. Or maybe you drop by Tokyo before that :-)

• StefanAkiko says:

  7/30/2014 12:13:00 PM - It seems I will be in Madrid on Sep 6. Would that be a fine night for exploring Spanish wine and some fine tapas?

• fc1910 says:

  6/7/2014 11:50:00 PM - hola de nuevo, muchas gracias por me mandas el link a la enoteca Barolo. Sobre todo me gustaria comprar viejas botellas de las bodegas Lopez de Heridia y La Rioja Alta. Y ahora tengo suerte, he comprado algunas botellas de Gran Reserva: Vina Tondonia, CVNE Vina Real y Prado Enea. Y quizas, si yo tengo mas suerte, me recibo una botella de Ygay Gran Reserva 78. Y claro que si, ahora solo estoy aprendido mas sobre los vinos classicos de Espana............,saludos desde Hamburgo

• fc1910 says:

  5/28/2014 11:43:00 AM - Hola otra vez Harley 1199, he leyendo sobre tus siete bodegas Riojanas magnificas. Hace unos anos compre unas pocas botellas de Rioja Gran Reserva vieja de las bodegas CUNE y Paternina. Y ahora estoy pensando sobre la calidad y quando consumir las. son botellas de los anos 59 y 64. Y por favor una pregunta mas....... porque no te gusta vino de la uva blanca de la primera calidad, El Riesling? ;-) Saludos

• fc1910 says:

  5/17/2014 10:06:00 AM - Hola Harley1199, Si estoy interesado en contactos sobre Rioja viejo. Pero no tengo un account a twitter o FB. Y he buscando una function a CT a enviar una mensaje privada. Pero no he encontrado lo................, saludos

• StefanAkiko says:

  5/12/2014 2:28:00 PM - It's Spanish theme for now. Tonight: 83 and 02 Vega Sicilia and 2007 Valbuena #5. The '02 Vega Sicilia clearly stole the show and the '83 I called out as a simple Rioja GR from the mid 90’ies. It was rather weak.

• StefanAkiko says:

  4/28/2014 1:10:00 PM - Just had a 1982 Valbuena #5. It was fantastic!

• gew71walsh says:

  4/28/2014 4:00:00 AM - Harley, in response to your comment on Don Melchor, I believe it may last until 2024, but I am generally of the view that most of these New World wines hit their stride between 5 and 10 years and don't get better, even if they maintain their drinkability. In addition, at this point in my life, the earlier I can drink a good wine, the better. Will be spending a day in Barcelona in June (off a cruise ship)--any suggested places for an afternoon of food and wine?

• Goldstone says:

  4/26/2014 11:45:00 AM - Harley, for a white Spanish wine that I think is unbeatable price/quality ratio and will stand its own against any expensive white Burgundy 1er Cru or top Burgundy-style Calirornians (such as Ch Montelena Chardonnay)...... I present you, Bodegas Rafael Palacios Valdeorras Luoro. Enjoy!

• StefanAkiko says:

  4/15/2014 1:06:00 AM - We are eating and drinking alright. Even if I had to undergo surgery some 3 weeks ago and soon returning to Europe for a couple of weeks. We'll be gathering a GREAT wine-evening in London, now on Sunday the 20th of April. Please pop over!

• StefanAkiko says:

  3/13/2014 1:48:00 PM - Escombro? Did you ever have it? It is quite a compelling wine and I really hope there's a possibility in finding more of this perfection of a Spanish wine. The 2011 I had at BAR BRUTAL in Barcelona was an earthquake. Muscular and elegant at the same time. Just back home in Yokohama after two tough weeks in Europe. I'm sorry, but it proved impossible to go to Madrid. Hope you are enjoying your well deserved vacation. And I hope you drink some great wines while not working :-) Talk to you soon :-)

• StefanAkiko says:

  2/3/2014 9:29:00 AM - Sorry for slow answer. Let's enjoy a great time together the next time I go to Madrid instead :-) I'm already looking forward to.

• StefanAkiko says:

  1/26/2014 6:45:00 AM - So, you think it's easier for me to travel than for you :-) I don't even understand the train-web-site. At any rate, it's impossible for me to go to Madrid, even if it's close. I'm in Zaragoza for work, and need to work hard. It would be nice if you could come. But, if not, we can surely meet up another time.

• StefanAkiko says:

  1/25/2014 8:10:00 AM - March 6 would be the perfect date for a wine evening in Zaragoza. At least for my schedule :-)

• StefanAkiko says:

  1/22/2014 9:38:00 AM - I will be in Barcelona and Zaragoza in early March. Would be great to enjoy some Spanish wine together. However, I don't know where you live. Cheers!

• JV2728 says:

  1/17/2014 6:42:00 AM - Thanks Harley, The NUS is their sweet wine.

• JV2728 says:

  1/17/2014 5:11:00 AM - Hello Harley, Have you tried the Como Vella Priorats?

• Monsieur le Comte says:

  1/11/2014 12:07:00 PM - enjoying 99 ALENZA right now. I have to admit; this is one of the best wines in the world...ALTHOUGH I SCORED ONLY 95 POINTS :-)

• michigan dogs says:

  1/8/2014 7:59:00 PM - Harley, I saw your comment about my note on the Ardanza Reserve, just for clarification, I love Spanish wines, especially from the Priorat area. I've only been to Spain once, Barcelona and Catalonia, but we had a great time with wonderful food and wine. I much prefer wines from Spain over French.

• pigdaddy says:

  1/8/2014 7:15:00 AM - Thanks for your comment; I'm hopeful that bottle will reward patience. As to Spanish food here in NC, in Durham, Mateo's cooks very personal, regionally-inflected tapas & larger plates, some traditionally recognizable, some dishes that would be smart in San Sebastian, all with very good ingredients. In Asheville, a woman chef named Katie Button has a tapas place called Curate that gets good reports; we're traveling there today, so I'll let you know. Cheers.

• TuscanRaider says:

  12/28/2013 1:43:00 PM - Thanks for the tip! I will aim to tuck some away for later tasting.

• Monsieur le Comte says:

  12/24/2013 9:28:00 AM - Thank you for your kind words y Feliz Navidad!

• Stirling says:

  12/23/2013 3:21:00 PM - Thanks for your comment Harley. Only two of those La Rioja Altas left; for a special occasion! Merry Christmas to you too!

• nortonnose says:

  12/23/2013 11:21:00 AM - Hi Harley. My experience w Lafite is very limited (I can't afford it!). And yes certainly there is always bottle variation! You needn't be a mathematician to know one bottle does not a rating guarantee. :) I don't blindly follow top critics' words verbatim but, many of the best are to be trusted and thus used as valuable informational sources. Read between the lines on Parker's rating and timeline of the 01 (vs. nearly all other vintages). Same w Jeff Leve, etc. And I arrive at a conclusion that I'd be rightly 'concerned' for this one's potential to disappoint, especially if its value/market price is material to you. I can tell you that when I saw it included in our evening, I immediately thought "oh goodness, this is way too young." And that was before we tasted it. If you're married to keeping them, and these were my bottles? I personally wouldn't open the first one until 2019, and then judge from there. In any event, fingers crossed! Merry Christmas to you and yours!

• denver_vinder says:

  12/23/2013 8:25:00 AM - Hi Harley, thanks for your comment on my Foradori 2009 - and merry Christmas to you!

• denver_vinder says:

  12/23/2013 8:25:00 AM - Hi Harley, thanks for your comment on my Foradori 2009 - and merry Christmas to you!

• bacchus says:

  12/18/2013 7:01:00 AM - Thanks for your response to my tasting note. If I ever make it to rioja, will look for you. Happy holidays.

• hubas says:

  12/15/2013 7:47:00 AM - Hi Harley and thank you for your comment on my note regarding (https://www.cellartracker.com/note.asp?iWine=841466&iNote=3996106) a GR Rioja. It is nice to see that other read what a write and as you ask I've also had a chance to think about it a bit more. In my mind the wine was very typical for the more older style of Rioja with alot of dill and oak. I personally can think that this easily be come a bit to much. In this case the wine was still very good, At least the way i use the scoring system 86 should be at the lower end of the very good wines. So I did indeed enjoy it alot. As you advice perhaps in the future it will to my opinion balance out more And it might reach even higher.

• cdelcueto says:

  12/9/2013 3:00:00 AM - Thanks for your comment on my note. It made me realize I put the note on the wrong wine! Of course Ardanza still going strong. Thanks.

• StefanAkiko says:

  11/12/2013 8:33:00 PM - Priorat is simply one of the great areas for making outstanding wine in this World. It's within close proximity to Barcelona (and Gaudi's heritage). All in all, the perfect long weekend when in Europe :-) ...also, I really enjoy the strong entrepreneurial spirit of Priorat.

• StefanAkiko says:

  11/12/2013 8:22:00 AM - Thankyou for your assistance with our trip to Priorat. Unfortunately, your list of phone numbers was over the hill, but my daughter found the website very useful. We stayed only in Gratallops and my strongest impression was with Clos Mogador: that is PASSION. We all liked it, bought one of everything, including their delicious olive oil :-)

• StefanAkiko says:

  10/20/2013 12:53:00 AM - Thankyou for great advice! Q: How do you suggest we move around between them? Are there "wine tours" or "wine tour guides" available? Or should we rent a minibus? (But WHO will be the driver?)

• StefanAkiko says:

  10/17/2013 12:27:00 PM - We'll be in Barcelona soon and intent on spending a Saturday (or Sun) in Priorat. Any suggestions? (As in what would be great on Nov 2nd, or Sun the 3rd?) We (9 ppl) want to taste many-many wines and buy ~12 btls per person.

• Monsieur le Comte says:

  10/10/2013 3:30:00 AM - yes, a magnum reserva for 40€...

• Monsieur le Comte says:

  10/9/2013 3:38:00 PM - Hola Harley, ''91 reserva riscal magnum drinkable? what do you think?

• Gobi says:

  8/26/2013 9:06:00 PM - Harley1199 me alegro que te haya gustado mi nota de cata del Prado Enea, para mi no hay nada mejor que un buen vino Riojano añejado lentamente en botella por decadas... casi al mismo nivel que una buena botella de la Borgoña!

• Yagil says:

  8/20/2013 7:17:00 PM - Hello Harley1199: After all , I agree with your comment :-) About to lead my wine-frineds on a few selected wineries in Priorat, Rioja & Ribera del Duero on Oct 2013. Will appreciate your advice. yagil.barel@gmail.com

• yayinski says:

  8/4/2013 6:09:00 AM - Interesado en el mundo del vino y en recibir buenas recomendaciones de tintos, blancos, espumosos y vinos de postre disponibles en Puerto Rico? entra a Wine News, https://www.facebook.com/groups/2420171667

• gallu says:

  7/27/2013 2:15:00 PM - Buenas, Harley. Abrí la botella de Sierra Catabria CP precisamente para ver por dónde iban los tiros de esa añada. Tengo más botellas y posiblemente compre más. Lo disfrutarás mucho en 2018 (y yo espero que también). Saludos.

• Zweder says:

  7/22/2013 3:38:00 AM - Hi Harley, While reading some of your notes I see you eat in Toledo sometimes. I remember a nice restaurant with a great wine list in Toledo. After having a look at Google maps, I think it is La Custodia. Have you been there?

• Monsieur le Comte says:

  7/9/2013 1:04:00 PM - today I expanded my palate!^^ proud to say that i got fennel in a "05 riscal reserva... p.s you are right, these wines should be kept for 10-15 years...

• bsantis says:

  6/22/2013 11:04:00 AM - Hi Harley. This bottle of Chateau Cantemerle there's no Wow effect, 2004 wasn't a good vintage in Medoc. It's lacks the punch and complexity of better vintages, anyway, well made and enjoyable according the level. The tannins are practically melted and begins to be approchable. Muchas gracias por tu comentario!

• Yiannis says:

  6/17/2013 6:58:00 AM - The bottle showed better on day two for 3 reasons: 1. All the funk it initially revealed was gone completely. Although the "fantastic aromas" I mentioned on my t.n. were obvious some time after the bottle had been opened, they were cleaner and stronger after the remaining half-bottle spent a night in my refrigerator. In fact the bottle was opened on Friday night and was fully consumed on Saturday during lunch. 2. Although the tannins were already "silky" from the beginning, the wine was overall fleshier on day 2, but then again it might be that the olfactory experience (cleaner and more expressive nose) "helped" me perceive it as such. 3. I wrote "probably at peak with some life ahead". I was going to write "with a long life ahead" but did not based on my experience with the 2001's I had, which were perfect until 2 years ago, but the last bottle I opened on last Christmass eve showed clear signs of fatigue (see my relative notes). But then, this was another vintage, so who knows...All that being said, yhe wine was very enjoyable at this stage, so I did not regret opening it. I wish you enjoy yours equally or even more, whenever you open it. Thanks for your comment.

• BrianPA says:

  6/13/2013 9:21:00 AM - Hi Harley. Thanks for your comments responding to my tasting notes on a recent bottle of 2001 La Rioja Alta Rioja Viña Ardanza Reserva Especial. I will absolutely try it again and am generally a big fan of Rioja and other Spanish wines. Kind regards. BrianPA

• JustinHandlin87 says:

  6/13/2013 3:52:00 AM - Hi Harley, I have a 2003 Chateau Palmer and I'm trying to figure out how long I should wait to open it. I figure that I should hold it at least another 3-5 years, but since 03 was a bit of a weird year weather wise, I'm not sure. Do you have any suggestions?

• Shash says:

  6/12/2013 9:25:00 AM - Hi Harley. On the Lynch-Bages 2001, I was definitely positively surprised. I had 2 bottles (my last 2) with good friends I haven't seen in a long time and the wine did the event perfect justice. I don't think you need to wait much longer, in my opinion the wine has matured very nicely. 2015 makes more sense than 2021 in my opinion, but definitely open for a special occasion. Abraço.

• chatters says:

  6/6/2013 4:20:00 PM - Hullo again, yes, I have used Bradley in the past, as well as Jeremy Oliver and James Halliday. Of these Bradley likes them a bit younger and Oliver a bit older. Taste is all so subjective anyway...as regards the 95 La Rioja, well, no-one brings it in that I can find so the only opportunity I will have to get my hands on it will be to travel to Europe!

• chatters says:

  6/5/2013 10:36:00 PM - Hi Harley, thanks mate, most kind. Alas, I'm not in the joyous position of having had access to older CF's...With regard to the John Riddoch, I've been tending to give them about about 15 years before popping them but I tend to like them a bit older. They certainly seem to have the stuffing to last that long. I had some early 90's in the mid noughties and they went along quite nicely. I find they have a similar longevity to, say, the Penfold 389's. If I was having an Aussie from your rather lovely cellar at Christmas I'd probably go for that 98 Fox Creek Shiraz Reserve...But, if I had free range, I'd be knocking the top off that youthful but sumptuous 95 La Rioja Gran Reserva 890!! Cheers, chatters

• chatters says:

  6/4/2013 3:42:00 PM - Hi Harley, Just in response to your kind comments...Lucky, yes, but also considerably out of pocket, it was a very expensive tasting! Down here in Australia it's quite rare to see all these wines at one sitting. Yes, the Margaux was something special and I concur that all of these wines are far too young. The Pontet Canet seemed to be a well made, but dull wine. It just didn't work out for me at this tasting when compared with it's peers. Of course, with all of these wines, you never know if the bottle is slightly out of condition. Finally regarding Cab Franc, I actually really like it - either as the dominant varietal as in Bourgeuil for example or helping out Merlot in St Emilion and it's satellites...I just didn't like the Cheval Blanc: I think it was the slightly charred, burnt note and almost prune fruit that was my concern rather than the herbaceous aspect. cheers and happy drinking, chatters

• blash says:

  6/3/2013 5:48:00 PM - Harley1199 - thanks for the feedback on the 2001 La Rioja Alta Rioja Gran Reserva 904. I was obviously struggling through my comments. I'm sure I have a lot more to learn about the wines of Rioja, although I have enjoyed several. I'm guessing I ran into a bad bottle. Looking forward to trying it again. Cheers.

• Pedro G says:

  5/26/2013 2:08:00 PM - Harley1199 Gracias. Interesante que vivimos los dos en Madrid, hemos estamos juntos en Santa Sicilia (90 años) en la cata famosa de los Alion (1991-2009) y no nos conocemos. CellarTracker es magnífico. Pedro

• Pebben says:

  5/24/2013 12:55:00 AM - Thanks for commenting on the Lamy. This will probably be great in 2015 too - it definately has the structure to last for quite a while (I'll honestly try to save at least one bottle). I have a problem keeping my hands off young white Burgundies in general, and 2009 in particular - they are just so damn tasty now...

• soyhead says:

  5/19/2013 12:22:00 PM - so you dont think it smells like coconut?

• soyhead says:

  5/16/2013 7:53:00 PM - Wine notes and score heavily influenced by the critics no doubt. best is to find bottles you like that have not even been reviewed.

• Luckyb says:

  5/6/2013 4:15:00 AM - Regarding your comment on the Rioja I posted a tasting note on - I find it difficult to think that you would think ALL Rioja and every bottle is a good one? I posed a comment and score in good faith based on my experience of the tasting and my personal opinion. I am sorry you don't agree with that but I stand by my view that this particular Rioja was not as good as many that I have enjoyed over the years and have in bond for the future. Best regards.

• Tenuta Stefan says:

  4/14/2013 4:22:00 AM - Hi, Yes, the Margaux was pure enjoyment :-) Another wine that performed very well was Grand-Puy-Lacoste 2009 wich we had side by side with the Margaux, and the Grand Puy stood up well. Not the same length, finish and elegance, but not far behind. 94 - 95 P So if you want a really good young Bordeaux and not pay topdollar, they I really recommend the Grand-Puy-Lacoste 2009.

• pjaines says:

  4/5/2013 6:56:00 AM - Thanks for the message on the Valandraud. Yes, I thought the wine still has a long way to go....but I like my wines quite mature. There is quite a bit of structure and fruit on the wine. Regards The Seditioner.

• Monsieur le Comte says:

  3/17/2013 8:42:00 PM - time to drink a Gran Reserva from Riscal (2001?!)

• Harley1199 says:

  2/22/2013 10:28:00 AM - heyyy qué tal? Pues sí lo he probado hace ya mucho en una cata y me pareció que solo demuestra al mercado americano que sabemos cómo hacer vinos de corte moderno. Prefiero Prado Enea .....

• Hazeo says:

  2/22/2013 10:22:00 AM - Hola Harley, parece que tenemos 'palate' similares. Me gusto mucho el Prado Enea ... has probado el Aro?

• Harley1199 says:

  11/28/2012 1:39:00 AM - En Madrid pero trabajo y me muevo por toda España Lo conoces? Visité Puerto Rico en el verano del año pasado Hay que decirle a Eric que nos de mas opciones que el keyboard del Imperio jajajaja

• yayinski says:

  11/27/2012 9:13:00 PM - Hola! En q parte de españa vives?

• Harley1199 says:

  11/27/2012 6:51:00 AM - hey, qué pasa? boricua? un saludo desde España

• yayinski says:

  10/29/2012 9:15:00 AM - Buena reseña, saludos desde Puerto Rico