The Classics Collection
May 2007
Tasting notes
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| France Red
Wines - May 2007 |
| CHÂTEAU HAUT MARBUZET 2000 |
| St.-Estèphe |
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| 20057 (XD) 750 mL $ 95 |
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| Tasting note: Always a high achiever. Rich red, with spice, vanilla and plummy character. Full- to medium-bodied, with plenty of rounded tannins and a medium finish. Bit tough now, but better with time. Best after 2008. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2003) |
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| CHÂTEAU LA GAFFELIÈRE 1998 |
| 1er Grand Cru Classé (B), St.-Émilion |
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| 957597 (XD) 750 mL $ 95 |
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| Tasting note: A big, Porty, raisiny wine. Very ripe plum and hints of mineral and spice on the nose. Full-bodied, thick and rich, with big, silky tannins. Slightly hot finish. Rather rustic but impressive. Best after 2006. Score - 92. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Jan. 31, 2001) |
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| CHÂTEAU LAFON-ROCHET 1995 |
| 4e Cru, St.-Estèphe |
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| 17871 (XD) 750 mL $ 69 |
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| Tasting note: The best wine ever produced at this estate. So sexy, so wonderful now -- but be patient. Dark in color, ruby, inky. Blueberries, cream and vanilla character. Full-bodied, with full yet fine tannins. It literally massages your palate. Best after 2001. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Jan. 31, 1998) |
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| CHÂTEAU LÉOVILLE LAS CASES 2001 |
| 2e Cru, St.-Julien |
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| 29892 (XD) 750 mL $ 219 |
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| Tasting note: This is very floral and perfumed with lots of violets, roses and berries. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a racy finish. Superfresh and long. Focused and clean. Best after 2010. Score - 94. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2004) |
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| CHÂTEAU PALMER 1995 |
| 3e Cru, Margaux |
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| 29918 (XD) 750 mL $ 275 |
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| Tasting note: Elegant and beautiful. Outstanding Palmer. Extremely pretty aromas of black cherries and vanilla. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, cherry, vanilla aftertaste. A delightful wine. Best after 2000. Score - 94. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2003) |
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| CHATEAU PÉDESCLAUX 2004 |
| 5e Cru, Pauillac |
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| 29926 (XD) 750 mL $ 42 |
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| Château Pédesclaux is a lesser known Pauillac estate which is neighbour to Châteaux Mouton Rothschild and Pontet-Canet. It was founded in 1810 by Urbain Pierre Pédesclaux and was then sold to the Count de Gastebois. Lucien Jugla started as a tenant farmer in the early thirties and purchased the château in 1950; his family still runs the small estate today. |
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| CHÂTEAU POTENSAC 1996 |
| Médoc |
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| 29934 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
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| "This is the most amazing wine this estate has ever produced…A sleeper of the vintage," wrote Robert Parker Jr. (www.erobertparker.com, April 1999) Decanter gave this "powerful" Bordeaux **** out of five. |
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| Tasting note: Lots of ripe fruit, with intense aromas of blackberries and raspberries and layers of fruit flavors. Full-bodied, round and rich. Best after 2000. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Web Only (1999)) |
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| CHÂTEAU TALBOT 2000 |
| 4e Cru, St.-Julien |
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| 29942 (XD) 750 mL $ 139 |
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| Tasting note: Beautiful aromas of raspberries, Indian spices, crushed flowers and berries. Full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe fruit and silky tannins. Long and delicious. A very fine and pretty wine. Best Talbot in years. Best after 2010. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2003) |
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| CHÂTEAU TALBOT 1999 |
| 4e Cru, St.-Julien |
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| 936013 (XD) 750 mL $ 79 |
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| Tasting note: A ringer hiding in a Gruaud-Larose vertical tasting, and it's quite apparent that this is a very different wine. An unusual nose, of smoke and roast ham - perhaps an oak derived aroma - which dissipates to leave tarry fruit and a more recognisable oaky note of sweet caramel. Full and rounded on the palate, but not giving lots of flavour or character. Not as concentrated as the other wines, although there is plenty of texture and structure. Good acidity. Quite closed at present. This seemed very unusual compared to the other vintages of Gruaud-Larose, but once the label was revealed all became clear. Good, potentially very good. (Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com, July 2003) |
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| France Red Wines May 2007 |
| Burgundy |
| ALBERT BICHOT CLOS-DE-VOUGEOT 2004 |
| Grand Cru, Domaine du Clos Frantin |
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| 29538 (D) 750 mL $ 129 |
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| Tasting note: A more deeply pitched nose that offers notes of wood spice, warm earth and ripe red and black fruit leads to rich, full and relatively powerful flavors imbued with a subtle sweetness and intensity on the chewy and slightly dry finish. There is good overall volume and the mouth feel is on the strict side as befits the austerity of a young Clos de Vougeot. I would give this 5 to 7 years of cellar time first. Drink: 2010+. Score - 89. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, Jan. 1, 2007) |
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| ALBERT BICHOT CORTON CLOS DES MARÉCHAUDES 2003 |
| Grand Cru, Domaine du Pavillon |
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| 29512 (D) 750 mL $ 99 |
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| Tasting note: Ripe, jammy aromas introduce this opulent, concentrated red. Black cherry and cassis are the main themes, with dark chocolate and tobacco lurking in the background. The sweet fruit and tannins duke it out on the finish. Best from 2008 through 2022. Score - 93. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2006) |
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| DOMAINE DU CHÂTEAU DE MEURSAULT POMMARD CLOS DES EPENOTS 2002 |
| 1er Cru |
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| 20651 (XD) 750 mL $ 49 |
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| A Gold Medal winner at the prestigious International Wine Challenge in 2004. |
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| Tasting note: This is deliciously open on the nose with aromas of raspberry and cherry and plummy complexity. The follow through on the palate is exact with good varietal character and balanced spicy oak for added depth and complexity. Good velvety length. (Judging panel, International Wine Challenge 2004) |
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| DOMAINE ROUX VOUGEOT LES PETITS VOUGEOTS 2003 |
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| 940403 (D) 750 mL $ 75 |
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| Tasting note: Big, vibrant aromas of red cherry and tobacco. Silky, licorice-laced flavors of raspberry jam, cedar and tobacco. A great example of a super-ripe, but totally in control wine. Score - 94. (Todd M. Wernstrom, Wine News, April/May 2006) |
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| HERVÉ ARLAUD MOREY ST-DENIS LES MILLANDES 2004 |
| 1er Cru |
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| 22418 (XD) 750 mL $ 69 |
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| Tasting note: A clear step up in ripeness relative to the villages wines and as it always is, this is an elegant Morey with airy but earthy red berry fruit aromas highlighting supple, forward and sweet flavors that evidence obvious minerality on the detailed and balanced finish. This is quite attractive with ample finishing punch. 2011+. Score - 87-90. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, Jan. 2006) |
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| ROBERT ARNOUX NUIT-ST-GEORGES LES POISETS 2004 |
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| 22426 (XD) 750 mL $ 75 |
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| Tasting note: Good deep red. Reduced nose hints at leather and rare steak. Offers good stuffing, with flavors of medicinal black fruit and peppery spices. A village wine with very good persistence. Score - 87-90. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, March/April 2006) |
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| France White Wines - May 2007 |
| Burgundy |
| CHRISTIAN MOREAU PÈRE & FILS CHABLIS LES CLOS 2004 |
| Grand Cru |
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| 598623 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
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| Tasting note: A firm, lemony white, with plenty of richness. Shows a stony, minerally side today, with a steely austerity that needs time to soften and reveal more complexity. Long, spice-tinged finish. Best from 2009 through 2020. Score - 92. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2006) |
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| CHRISTIAN MOREAU PÈRE & FILS CHABLIS VALMUR 2004 |
| Grand Cru |
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| 641944 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
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| Tasting note: Though attractive now, this appealing white will improve with time in the bottle. Characteristic Chablis flavors of apple, mineral and citrus are augmented by oak spice, yet the mineral theme prevails. Shows a little heat on the finish. Best from 2008 through 2018. Score - 93. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2006) |
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| CHRISTIAN MOREAU PÈRE & FILS CHABLIS VAUDÉSIR 2004 |
| Grand Cru |
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| 29751 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
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| Tasting note: Seethes with intensity, but requires time to reveal all its charms. Starts out with lemon and apple notes, with hints of peach, then adds vanilla accents from the oak maturation. Ends with a mineral affirmation of terroir. A beauty from start to finish. Best from 2009 through 2020. Score - 94. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2006) |
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| DOMAINE DES MALANDES CHABLIS VAUDÉSIR 2004 |
| Grand Cru |
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| 657312 (D) 750 mL $ 53 |
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| Tasting note: From cask this was quite generously oaked with more than a touch of vanilla and wood spice that has become relatively discreet from bottle as it frames ripe and expressive green fruit aromas that give way to delicious, concentrated and powerful flavors that possess excellent depth and length. This should be approachable young and displays plenty of Chablis character. Drink 2008+. Score - 92. (Allen Meadows, www.burghound.com, Oct. 2006) |
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| ROUX PÈRE & FILS CORTON-CHARLEMAGNE 2004 |
| Grand Cru |
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| 29363 (XD) 750 mL $ 129 |
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| Tasting note: Bold, buttery and lush in texture. A mix of spice from new oak adds complexity to the baked apple and lemon flavors, with a mineral accent emerging on the finish. Seems more forward than its peers. Much better than previously reviewed. Drink now through 2018. Score - 92. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2007) |
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| WILLIAM FÈVRE CHABLIS BOUGROS CÔTE BOUGuEROTS 2004 |
| Grand Cru |
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| 28860 (XD) 750 mL $ 64.95 |
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| Tasting note: Minerals, chalk, rosemary, thyme, and white pepper are found in the nuanced aromatics of the sublime 2004 Chablis Bougros Côte Bouguerots (domaine). Produced from south-facing vines that bask in the sun whenever it appears, this wine reveals astounding amplitude, depth, concentration, and power. Its rich core is sappy, silky-textured, and presents intense liquefied stone flavors. Notes of fresh mint leaves appear in this offering's prolonged finish. Projected maturity: now-2016. Score - 95. (Pierre Rovani, www.erobertparker.com, June 2006) |
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| WILLIAM FÈVRE CHABLIS LES PREUSES 2004 |
| Grand Cru |
| | | 8524 (XD) 750 mL $ 65 |
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| Wine critic Allen Meadows was effusive in his praise of this wine and awarded it a score of 95. (www.burghound.com, Oct. 1, 2006) |
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| Tasting note: The 2004 Chablis Les Preuses (domaine) reveals a nose of intense purity. Its aromas of gravel, stones, candied citrus fruits, pears, and hints of toast lead to a crystalline, medium-bodied character. This feminine effort's broad personality is filled with minerals, stones, iodine, and fresh herbs whose flavors linger in its amazingly long, detailed finish. Projected maturity: 2007-2014. Score - 94. (Pierre Rovani, www.erobertparker.com, June 2006) |
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| France Red Wines - May 2007 |
| Rhône |
| BOIS DE BOURSAN CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE TRADITION 2004 |
| | | 728014 (XD) 750 mL $ 35 |
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| Tasting note: The classic garrigue smells of roasted herbs, loamy soil notes, and pepper are present in the dark ruby/purple-tinged 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape. Quite broad, spicy, with excellent texture and purity, this wine tastes like the essence of Provence and smells as if you're walking through one of the local open-air marketplaces. Drink it over the next 7-8 years as it's on a relatively fast evolutionary track. Score - 90. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) |
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| DOMAINE FONT DE MICHELLE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2004 |
| | | 703512 (D) 750 mL $ 39 |
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| Tasting note: Ripe and smoky, with raspberry, plum sauce, truffle and violet notes that run through a round, fleshy finish. Nice minerality stretches it out. Drink now through 2022. Score - 91. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Nov. 15, 2006) |
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| DOMAINE MATHIEU CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE VIN DI FELIBRE 2003 |
| | | 28209 (XD) 750 mL $ 65 |
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| Tasting note: A celebration of the poet Anselme Mathieu, who was a 19th century Provençal patriot, this wine is labeled both in the Provençal language as well as French. All this stuff surrounding the wine doesn't detract from its fine quality, its range of plums, black currants and bitter cherries and its intense ripe structure. The dryness at the back promises long aging. Score - 93. (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 31, 2005) |
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| JASMIN CÔTE-RÔTIE 2004 |
| | | 34165 (XD) 750 mL $ 65 |
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| Tasting note: Medium red. Fresh red berry and cherry aromas accented by minerals and spices. Fresh acidity sharpens the brisk, mineral-laced redcurrant, bitter cherry and graphite flavors. Smoked meat and tobacco tones emerge on the bright, structured finish. Score - 90. (Josh Reynolds, International Wine Cellar, Jan./Feb. 2007) |
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RAYMOND USSEGLIO CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE CUVÉE IMPÉRIALE 2004 |
| | | 22319 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
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| Tasting note: This is a classic Chateauneuf du Pape, redolent of aromas of seaweed, pepper, kirsch, spice box, and beautiful fruit flavors. The cuvee of old vines from a vineyard planted in the beginning of the 20th century, the 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale has a hallmark of extraordinary purity of black cherry and raspberry fruit with more minerality, a sweet, full-bodied, voluptuous palate, and superb definition and length with perfectly ripe tannins. The 2004 needs 2-3 years of cellaring and should keep 15 or more years. It is a brilliant wine. Score - (92-94). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2006) |
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| DOMAINE DU VIEUX TÉLÉGRAPHE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PÂPE LA CRAU BLANC 2005 | | |
| 736462 (XD) 750 mL $ 49 |
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| Tasting note: This 2005 was not reviewed at press time. Previous vintages were praised for their rich, layered flavours with mango, butter and pineapple dominating. Expect more of the same from this 2005 vintage as the vintage was very well-respected. |
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| France White
Wines - May 2007 |
| France - Alsace |
| DOMAINE PAUL BLANCK RIESLING FURSTENTUM 2002 |
| Alsace Grand Cru |
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31575 (D) 750 mL $ 37 |
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| A Best-Value Trophy Winner at the 2006 Decanter World Wine Awards. |
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| Tasting note: Reticent nose combines yellow fruits and flint. Lovely soil-driven flavors of peach, apricot, spices, flowers and flint show excellent penetration and intensity. Comes across as drier than the Schlossberg, with the wine's 15 grams of residual sugar well-buffered by a strong 9 grams of acidity. Full-bodied, gripping riesling with a strong personality. Score - 92. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, Nov./Dec. 2003) |
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| DOMAINE PAUL BLANCK RIESLING SCHLOSSBERG 2003 |
| Alsace Grand Cru |
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31583 (D) 750 mL $ 37 |
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| Tasting note: Bright yellow in colour. Fragrant, ripe and rich nose with touches of gunflint and citrus fruit. A little bitter, dry and thick on the attack, but the palate then displays great finesse, concentrated, with a long finish. Great wine, still somewhat immature but destined for a long life. Very good. (Thierry Meyer, degustateurs.com, Nov. 12, 2005) |
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| HUGEL RIESLING JUBILEE 2004 | | | |
731448 (XD) 750 mL $ 49 |
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| Tasting note: Peach and lemon flavors vie with the tart structure in this lean, sharp white. There's richness, but it's wound tight and needs time to integrate. Be patient, it has potential. Best from 2008 through 2018. Score - 93. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2006) |
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| Champagne |
| G. H. MUMM GRAND CRU CHAMPAGNE N/V |
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28159 (D) 750 mL $ 89 |
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| Tasting note: This is a classy package, and the wine lives up to it, showing extra dimensions of power and weight. The flavors are layered and unfold gracefully; apple to citrus to pineapple. Then it slides into stone, chalk and fennel, moving finally to a nicely etched, crystalline clarity as it slowly fades across the palate. Score - 92. (Paul Gregutt, Wine Enthusiast, Dec. 1, 2006) |
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| J. LASALLE CHAMPAGNE SPECIAL CLUB BRUT 1997 |
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27730 (D) 750 mL $ 59 |
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| Tasting note: Brassy gold color. Exotic and powerful scents of marzipan, chestnut honey, toffee apple and cappuccino are serious and brooding; I have a hard time imagining this as an aperitif. Dense and thick on the palate, showing rich apple pie and plum flavors which should pair well with the richest shellfish dishes or anything finished with brandy. This has serious hang time on the nutty, strongly praline back end. Score - 91. (Josh Reynolds, International Wine Cellar, Nov./Dec. 2005) |
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| LANSON NOBLE CUVÉE BLANC DE BLANCS 1997 |
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657502 (XD) 750 mL $ 125 |
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| Tasting note: Part of the new Noble Cuvée range from Lanson (which also includes a Pinot Noir/Chardonnay blend and a rosé). This is feather light, floating with its bubbles and zesty, citrus fruit flavors, and a dry, crisp aftertaste. Very much an aperitif Champagne. Score - 92. (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, Feb. 1, 2007) |
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| MUMM DE CRAMANT GRAND CRU BRUT CHARDONNAY CHAMPAGNE |
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680587 (D) 750 mL $ 95 |
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| Tasting note: A viscous style, with fine supporting acidity, creating a contrast that sets the stage for honey, dough and hazelnut notes. Medium-bodied, with a brisk mineral aftertaste. Drink now through 2010. Score - 91. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Dec. 15, 2006) |
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| PERRIER-JOUËT BELLE EPOQUE BRUT ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE 2002 |
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267252 (D) 750 mL $ 350 |
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| The period before World War 1 is considered the belle époque, a time of comfort and prosperity that was destroyed forever by the Great War. This champagne bottle was created in 1902 to celebrate this golden age. By 1914, the design and Champagne were forgotten. In 1964, four of these bottles were discovered by Perrier-Jouët's cellarmaster and the company decided to resurrect the design. It was launched the white champagne two years later to commemorate Duke Ellington's 70th birthday. The Rosé is an even rarer event. It is always a limited edition, made in small quantities and only in the ver best years. This is without a doubt a pink champagne that speaks of class and elegance, so you must enjoy it during your most posh events. |
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| PERRIER-JOUËT BLASON ROSÉ BRUT CHAMPAGNE N/V |
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28142 (D) 750 mL $ 75 |
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| Tasting note: Mature notes suggest more reserve wine in this complex, elegant version. Dried fruit, spice and woodsy flavors are backed by a firm structure. The fine texture and long finish combine for a terrific overall impression. Drink now through 2010. Score - 92. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Dec. 31, 2006) |
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| POL ROGER CUVÉE SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL BRUT CHAMPAGNE 1996 |
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958678 (XD) 750 mL $ 179 |
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| Tasting note: The structure of the 1996 vintage is softened by a fine, silky mousse in this intensely wrought bubbly. Fresh, with citrus, berry, nut and coffee aromas and flavors and a rounded finish. Drink now through 2015. Collectibles. Score - 93. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, Nov. 30, 2006) |
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| France Red Wines - May 2007 |
| France - Loire |
| COULY-DUTHEIL CHINON CLOS DE L'ECHO CRESCENDO 2003 |
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32185 (D) 750 mL $ 49 |
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| Tasting note: A muscular Chinon, packed with lots of bramble, blackberry, cassis bush, tobacco and dark olive paste notes. Long finish sports tannins, mineral and dark fruit. Should age wonderfully. Drink now through 2014. Score - 93. (James Molesworth, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2006) |
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| Mosel-Saar-Ruwer |
| SCHLOSS LIESER NIEDERBERG HELDEN RIESLING SPÄTLESE 2004 | | |
| 662031 (M) 750 mL $ 26 |
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| Tasting note: Textbook Mosel spätlese. Peach, lime and mineral notes with a hint of vanilla allied to a supple texture. It's all held together by a bright structure. Very pure, focused and harmonious, with a long finish. Drink now through 2020. Score - 92. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, March 31, 2006) |
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| Pfalz |
| FITZ-RITTER MICHELSBERG DÜRKHEIM RIESLING GROSSES GEWAECHS 2003 | | (WEINGUT FITZ-RITTER) | | |
| 30049 (D) 750 mL $ 35 |
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| Tasting note: Lovely aromas of mineral and apricot, followed by more of the same and a citrus and spice component. Well-integrated and focused, with a fine finish. Drink now through 2009. Score - 90. (Bruce Sanderson, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2005) |
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| Germany Red Wines -
May 2007 |
| Rheingau |
| KLOSTER EBERBACH PINOT NOIR R RESERVE 2003 | | |
| 26534 (D) 750 mL $ 49 |
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| Kloster Eberbach is a former Cistercian monastery founded in 1136 by Bernard of Clairvaux. Wine has been made at the property for centuries. The winery is now owned and operated by the state of Hesse. Their Pinot Noir 'R' Reserve is only made in the best vintages when the optimum ripeness is achieved. The 2003 vintage was one of the warmest on record, resulting in ripe, round and vibrant wines throughout Germany, including this fine example. |
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| Italy Red
Wines - May 2007 |
| Italy - Alto Adige/Trentino |
| SAN LEONARDO ROSSO 2001 |
| DOC Trentino |
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| 32474 (XD) 750 mL $ 69 |
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| Tasting note: San Leonardo shows an intense ruby red color and nuances of garnet red color, little transparency. The nose reveals intense, clean, pleasing, refined and elegant aromas which start with hints of black currant, black cherry and plum followed by aromas of violet, vanilla, tobacco, licorice, chocolate, cigar box, clover, eucalyptus, mace and hints of black pepper. The mouth has very good correspondence to the nose, a tannic attack and however well balanced by alcohol, gull body, intense flavors, very agreeable. The finish is very persistent with long flavors of black currant, black cherry and plum. A great and well made wine. San Leonardo ages for 24 months in barrique followed by at least 12 months of aging in bottle. Score - ***** (out of 5). (www.diwinetaste.com, 2006) |
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| Italy Red
Wines - May 2007 |
| Piedmont |
| ALTARE BAROLO LA MORRA 2000 |
| DOCG |
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| 966044 (XD) 750 mL $ 89 |
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| Tasting note: This is very pretty, with blackberry, mineral and cherry character. Full-bodied, with a lovely core of silky tannins and a long finish. Slightly reserved, but will turn out wonderfully. Best after 2007. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, July 31, 2004) |
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| CAVALLOTTO BAROLO BRICCO BOSCHIS 2001 |
| DOCG |
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| 579276 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
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| Tasting note: Loads of plum, chocolate and spices on the nose here. Full-bodied, with supersoft tannins and a long, rich aftertaste. This gives you loads of everything in a reserved, determined way. Better than the 2000. Best after 2008. Score - 94. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, October 15, 2005) |
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| MOLINO BAROLO CONCA 1999 |
| DOCG |
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| 579128 (XD) 750 mL $ 89 |
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| Tasting note: Extremely well-crafted. Very pretty aromas of plums and Christmas pudding follow through to a full-bodied palate, with silky tannins and a coffee, ripe fruit finish. Best after 2007. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Nov. 30, 2003) |
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| Italy Red
Wines - May 2007 |
| Italy - Sicily |
| FEUDO PRINCIPI DI BUTERA SAN ROCCO CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2001 |
| IGT Sicilia |
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| 28902 (XD) 750 mL $ 49 |
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| Tasting note: Sicily has proved itself a worthy territory for Cabernet Sauvignon and this wine from the island’s southeast corner is tightly packed with aromas of spice, licorice, vanilla, earth, iron, bay leaf, dried herbs and a playful touch of crushed raspberry. It does not boast the same density as other over-extracted Cabernets because it counts on elegance, not muscle. Score - 90. (Monica Larner, Wine Enthusiast, Sept., 2006) |
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| Italy Red
Wines - May 2007 |
| Italy - Tuscany |
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| | CASTELLO BANFI EXCELSUS 2001 |
| DOC Sant'Antimo | | | | 919605 (XD) 750 mL $ 85 |
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| Tasting note: Fabulous aromas of blackberry, currant and lightly toasted oak. Full-bodied, with a rich, silky texture and a long, luscious finish. Fruit-driven but refined. One of the best in a long time. Cabernet Sauvignon. Best after 2006. Score - 92. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2004) |
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| CASTELLO BANFI POGGIO ALLE MURA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2001 |
| DOCG | | |
| 673715 (XD) 750 mL $ 75 |
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| Decanter awarded this wine **** out of five. (www.decanter.com) |
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| Tasting note: Red-ruby. Spicy, musky aromas of sweet red berries and exotic spices and flowers. Sweet, lush and packed with fruit; seamless, suave and quite concentrated. This is quite layered and full but less heavyhanded than some past vintages. Finishes with suave tannins and excellent persistence. Score - 92. (Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, July/August 2006) |
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| CASTELLO BANFI SUMMUS 2003 |
| IGT Toscana | | | | 999532 (XD) 750 mL $ 65 |
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| Tasting note: Balanced and pretty for such a hot vintage. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a bright, fruity aftertaste. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Best after 2007. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct 31, 2006) |
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| CASTELLO DELLA PANERETTA QUATTROCENTENARIO 2001 |
| IGT Toscana | | | | 28753 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
| |
| Tasting note: The 2001 Quattrocentenario presents the house’s best Sangiovese and is an impressive wine, very spicy in its expression of coconut, cardamom, and nutmeg-laced raspberry and currant fruit, powerful and dense on the palate, very long and focused in character. It will drink well for another dozen years. Score - 92. (Daniel Thomases, www.erobertparker.com, April 2006) |
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| CASTELLO DI FONTERUTOLI CHIANTI CLASSICO 2001 |
| DOCG | | | | 673301 (XD) 750 mL $ 55 |
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| Tasting note: This dark violet-red wine’s color presently reaches all the way to the rim. The nose is a bit closed at the moment, but with a little coaxing shows abundant ripe red and dark berry fruit. Big bodied with plenty of firm, muscular tannins and vibrant raspberry and cranberry fruit, this wine shows very promising structure and potential and should be put aside for later enjoyment. Drink 2008 to 2016. Score - 90. (Julia Sevenish, www.stratsplace.com, Nov. 25, 2004) |
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| CASTELLO DI FONTERUTOLI SIEPI 2004 |
| IGT Toscana | | | | 581678 (XD) 1500 mL $ 199 |
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| See note for #740019. |
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| Tasting note: add'l size |
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| CASTELLO DI FONTERUTOLI SIEPI 2004 |
| IGT Toscana | | | | 740019 (XD) 750 mL $ 89 |
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| The 2006 Gambero Rosso Italian Wines guide for experts wrote: " Castello di Fonterutoli is more than just Tuscany's most successful estate in terms of Guide Glassware [i.e., awards]. It is also the one that has picked up the most Three Glass awards right from the earliest editions of Italian Wines." While no reviews were available for the 2004 vintage, the Siepi has consistently been awarded Gambero Rosso's highest honour of Three Glasses since 1995! Acclaim is this wine's middle name. Well-structured and full-bodied, this Merlot (50%) and Sangiovese (50%) blend displays extremely pretty dark chocolate and blackberry aromas with caressing whispers of vanilla, leather and tobacco. Like any great wine, this wine will reward cellaring. |
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| FONTODI FLACCIANELLO DELLA PIEVE 2003 |
| IGT Colli Toscana Centrale |
| | | 963744 (XD) 750 mL $ 69 |
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| Tasting note: Aromas of blackberry and chocolate, with hints of dried flowers. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long, long finish. A beautifully refined red for such a hot vintage. Sangiovese. Best after 2007. Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006) |
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| GAGLIOLE ROSSO 2004 |
| IGT Colli della Toscana Centrale | | | | 30379 (D) 750 mL $ 55 |
|
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| Tasting note: Beautiful aromas of blackberry, chocolate and flowers follow through to a full-bodied palate, with ultrafine tannins and a currant and berry aftertaste. Excellent intensity and length. Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best after 2008. Score - 94. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006) |
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| GIANNI BRUNELLI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2001 |
| DOCG |
| |
| 30478 (XD) 750 mL $ 69 |
|
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| Tasting note: Lots of plum, blackberry and lightly toasted oak follow through to a full-bodied palate, with firm tannins and a long finish. This is tight now but shows a touch of class. Best after 2009. Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2006) |
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| | | IL PALAZZONE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2000 |
| DOCG |
| |
| 21105 (XD) 750 mL $ 65 |
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| Tasting note: The Brunello '00 is also excellent, making the most of the highest vineyards on the property and marked by those warm sensations typical of the vintage. It shows incredible precision on the nose where wild cherry and cherry mingle with redcurrants and well-integrated coffee and vanilla. The palate is harmonious and underpinned by fine-grained tannins. The elegance of the understated acidity adds rigour to the progressions and precision to the caressing finish. Score - Two Glasses (out of 3) . (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines 2006) |
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| | | IL PALAZZONE BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO RISERVA 1999 | | DOCG | | | | 21063 (XD) 750 mL $ 89 |
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| Tasting note: Three unanimous glasses went to the Riserva '99, a wine from a seriously superior growing season. The fruity sensations run from the territory's typical blackberry and morello cherry with further hints of balsam and rosemary in the background that add breadth to the spectrum of aromatics. The attack on the palate is austere, sustained by balanced alcohol that heralds a broad, winning progression, thanks above all to the lovely balance of fine-grained tannins and textbook acidity that is an integral feature of all sangiovese-based wines. The finish is broad and deep. Score - Three Glasses (out of 3) . (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines 2006) |
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| | | LA BRANCAIA IL BLU 2001 |
| IGT Toscana |
| |
| 31559 (D) 750 mL $ 69 |
|
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| The 2004 Gambero Rosso Italian Wines guide was effusive in its praise of the 2001 Il Blu and bestowed upon this wine its highest honour of Three Glasses out of three. |
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| Tasting note: A super wine, with a wonderful nose of ripe berry, tobacco, and toasty oak. Very rich. Full-bodied, with lovely, silky tannins and a long plum, raspberry and vanilla aftertaste. A real beauty. Drink now through 2008. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2003) |
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| LA BRANCAIA ILATRAIA 2004 |
| IGT Maremma Toscana |
| |
| 685230 (XD) 750 mL $ 65 |
|
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| Tasting note: Fabulous aromas of licorice, blackberry, chocolate and mineral. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, long finish. Balanced and complex. Best after 2008. Score - 92. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006) |
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| | MARCHESI DE FRESCOBALDI CASTELGIOCONDO RIPE AL CONVENTO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO RISERVA 2000 |
| DOCG |
| | | 724252 (XD) 750 mL $ 109 |
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| Tasting note: Aromas of plum, berry and flowers. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a ripe fruit finish. Delicious and hard to resist. Best after 2006. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, July 31, 2006) |
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| | | MARCHESI DE' FRESCOBALDI GIRAMONTE 2003 |
| IGT Toscana |
| | | 976126 (XD) 750 mL $ 79 |
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| Tasting note: Beautiful, sweet fruit, with hints of coffee and chocolate. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long finish. A pretty, balanced wine. Merlot and Sangiovese. Best after 2007. Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2005) |
| | | | | MAZZEI BELGUARDO 2003 |
| IGT Maremma Toscana |
| | | 678326 (XD) 750 mL $ 79 |
|
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| Tasting note: Wonderful aromas of concentrated blackberry, toasted oak and dark chocolate. Full-bodied, with loads of berry and cherry character. Lots of vanilla. Long. Big and juicy wine. Very close to the 2002. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. Best after 2008. Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2005) |
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| | | PODERE POGGIO SCALETTE IL CARBONAIONE 2003 |
| IGT Alta Valle della Greve |
| | | 719872 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
|
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| Tasting note: Plum, vanilla and light coffee aromas. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Gorgeous. Well-made and balanced for the vintage. Sangiovese. Best after 2008. Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006) |
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| | | POGGIO ANTICO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2001 |
| DOCG |
| | | 700377 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
|
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| Tasting note: Intense aromas of blackberry, cherry, light wood and meat. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long caressing finish. Seductive, delicate and refined. Best after 2010. Score - 91. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2006) |
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| | | POGGIO ANTICO MADRE 2003 | | IGT Toscana | | | | 25577 (XD) 750 mL $ 49 |
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| 2001 was the first vintage produced of Madre and it was immediately successful. A limited-production blend of sangiovese and cabernet sauvignon, Madre has characteristics of spice, chocolate, coffee and dark fruit. It will drink well now or can be aged. |
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| | | POLIZIANO LE STANZE 2004 |
| IGT Toscana |
| | | 32615 (XD) 750 mL $ 65 | |
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| Tasting note: Gorgeous aromas of crushed berry, flowers and currant follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins and a long, long finish. A fantastic Cabernet. Wow. Best after 2009. Score - 94. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006) |
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| | | RUFFINO MODUS 2001 |
| IGT Toscana |
| | | 912956 (XD) 750 mL $ 49 |
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| Tasting note: Dark in color, with very ripe, almost pruny aromas. Coffee, sweet tobacco and chocolate. Full-bodied and very powerful with lots of caressing tannins. Herbs and fruit on the finish. A complex wine. Best after 2007. Score - 90. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2005) |
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| | | TENUTA CARLINA TOGATA DEI TOGATI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2001 |
| DOCG |
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| 32607 (D) 750 mL $ 99 | |
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| Tasting note: Full-bodied and superpowerful, with an intense concentration of berry, chocolate and coffee character. Long and velvety. Massive. Best after 2008. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2006) |
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| | | TENUTA DI TRINORO LE CUPOLE ROSSO 2004 | | IGT Toscana | | | | 30361 (XD) 750 mL $ 45 |
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| Gambero Rosso awarded this Tuscan red Two Glasses out of three. (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines 2007). |
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| Tasting note: (Translated from the Italian) Fully ruby colour, with notes of cherry, pepper, flowers and aromatic herbs. On the palate it is elegant, soft, and round. On the finish it is full and fruity. Enjoy with Bistecca alla Fiorentina (steak Florentine). Score - 4 Grape Bunches (out of 5). (Judging panel, Duemilavini 2007) |
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| VILLA CAFAGGIO CORTACCIO 2003 | | Toscana | | |
| 20966 (XD) 750 mL $ 65 |
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| Tasting note: Gorgeous aromas of blackberries and currants. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium finish. A bit short but pretty. Cabernet Sauvignon. Best after 2005. Score - 88. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2005) |
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| VITANZA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2001 |
| DOCG |
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| 588319 (XD) 750 mL $ 59 |
|
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| Tasting note: Beautiful aromas of blackberry and dried flowers with just a hint of toasted oak. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a mineral, vanilla and berry aftertaste. Excellent as always. Best after 2010. Score - 93. (James Suckling, www.winespectator.com, April 30, 2006) |
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|
| Italy - Veneto |
| LORENZO BEGALI AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA MONTE CA'BIANCA 2001 |
| DOC |
| |
| 28274 (D) 750 mL $ 79 |
|
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| Tasting note: Aromas of prune, raisin and lightly polished oak follow through to a full-bodied palate, with firm tannins and lots of flavor. Long, long finish. Best after 2007.Score - 91. (www.winespectator.com, Aug. 31, 2006) |
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| | | QUINTARELLI AMARONE CLASSICO 1998 | | DOC | | |
| 986109 (XD) 750 mL $ 359 |
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| Giuseppi Quintarelli is a man needing no introduction. His wines are legends and the release of each and every one he makes is eagerly anticpated. The just-released 1998 Amarone Classico is no exception. Gambero Rosso Italian Wines 2006 awarded Three Glasses to Quintarelli's 1997 Amarone Classico and called it 'an absolutely unmissable wine, and one of the world's great bottles.' Expect more of the same from the 1998. |
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| TENUTA SANT'ANTONIO CAMPO DEI GIGLI AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 2000 | | DOC | | |
| 681627 (XD) 750 ML $ 69 |
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| Tasting note: Deep red. Nose of ripe black fruits, pepper and chocolate. On the palate, the velvety, spicy black fruit flavors are joined by grilled red meat and balsamic accents. The tannins, currently a bit pronounced, need some time to round out. But this wine shows real complexity and power.Score - 92. (Ian D'Agata, International Wine Cellar, March/April 2006) |
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| ZENATO AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO RISERVA SERGIO ZENATO SELECTION 2001 | | DOC | | | | 928036 (XD) 750 ML $ 89 | | |
| Tasting note: Minerally and intense on the nose, with clean aromas of currant, dried spice and mineral. Full, tightly packed palate, with big velvety tannins and a long finish. Best after 2008. Score - 92. (Jo Cooke, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2006) |
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| BODEGAS Y VINEDOS AALTO 2003 | | Ribero del Duero | | |
| 30403 (XD) 750 mL $ 49 |
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| Tasting note: The 2003 Aalto is a purple-colored wine offering a stylish nose of smoke, toast, graphite, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. On the palate it is medium to full-bodied, ripe, but slightly compact and the finish is firm. It would appear that the 2003 vintage has removed some of the generosity normally found in this wine in top years. Nevertheless, it is a fine effort that should drink well through 2027. Score - 92. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) |
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| | | LAN CULMEN RESERVA 2001 | | Rioja | | |
| 29579 (XD) 750 mL $ 79 |
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| Tasting note: [75% Tempranillo, 20% Mazuelo, 5% Graciano] Powerful and expressive. This massive red delivers ripe flavors of blueberry, plum and prune, backed by plenty of toasty oak and framed by muscular tannins, finishing with spices, tobacco and heat. International style, but with a sauvage note that keeps it distinctive. Best after 2007. Score - 94. (Tim Moriarty, www.winespectator.com, Nov. 15, 2005) |
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| | | LAN EDICIÓN LIMITADA 2003 | | Rioja | | |
| 581652 (D) 750 mL $ 55 |
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| This limited edition Rioja red appears on Wine Spectator's list of the Top 100 wines of 2006. (www.winespectator.com) |
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| Tasting note: Powerful yet graceful, this rich, ripe red delivers blackberry and currant fruit framed by coffee and toasty oak notes. Though thick on the palate, it remains fresh and focused, and the finish is clean and sweet, with floral and mineral grace notes. Drink now through 2012. Highly Recommended. Score - 94. (Tim Moriarty, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2006) |
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| | | MAS DOIX COSTERS DE VINYES VELLES 2004 | | Priorat | | |
| 30486 (D) 750 mL $ 115 |
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| Tasting note: The 2004 Costers de Vinas Viejas is 50% Carinena, 48% Garnacha, and 2% Merlot aged for 16 months in new French oak. Deep purple, the aromas are other-worldly with truffle, tar, graphite, kirsch, and wild blueberry among the array of scents leaping from the glass. Flamboyant and opulent, the wine has remarkable richness and depth of flavor leading to a 60-second finish. Drink this hedonistic effort over the next 10-12 years. Drink 2007-2019. Score - 98. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) |
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| | | MAS DOIX SALANQUES 2004 |
| Priorat |
| |
| 30494 (D) 750 mL $ 55 |
| |
| Tasting note: The 2004 Salanques is the second wine of Mas Doix made from barrels not making the cut for Costers de Vinas Viejas. It is 65% Garnacha, 20% Carinena, and equal parts Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon aged 14 months in French oak. Inky purple, the wine has a lovely perfume of mineral, truffle, pencil lead, kirsch, black currant, and blueberry. Ripe and full-bodied, the wine has a velvety texture, superb depth, and gobs of flavor. Drink this pleasure-packed wine over the next 8-10 years. Drink 2007-2017. Score - 94. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2007) |
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| REAL SITIO DE VENTOSILLA PRADOREY ELITE 2001 | | Ribera del Duero | | |
| 19950 (XD) 750 mL $ 35 |
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| Tasting note: Muscular yet still expressive, this sleek red offers black cherry, blackberry, chocolate, nutmeg and floral flavors. Harmonious and long. The structure is modern, but the terroir shows through. Drink now through 2012. Score - 90. (Thomas Matthews, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 15, 2004) |
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| |
| PRADORAY RESERVA 1999 |
| Ribera del Duero (Bodegas Real Sitio de Ventosilla) |
| |
| 995191 (XD) 750 mL $ 35
|
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| Tasting note: Rich and harmonious, this wine is more graceful than showy, with plum, coffee, mineral and spice notes that weave together through the firm, balanced structure. It seduces rather than overpowers. Drink now through 2012. Score - 91. (Thomas Matthews, www.winespectator.com, Sept. 15, 2004) |
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| Canada White
Wines - May 2007 |
| Ontario |
| THIRTY BENCH TRIANGLE RIESLING 2005 | | Beamsville Bench, Niagara | | |
| 25031 (D) 750 mL $ 32 |
| |
| Tasting note: This Riesling is sourced from the 9-acre Triangle vineyard located north of the winery, next to the creek at the back of the property. The grapes are hand picked and sorted, and when all is said and done they use only about 2 acres worth of the best fruit for this bottling. The limestone soil gives this wine great minerality both on the nose and taste, and shows great complexity with nuances of peach, pineapple, hint of tangerine and other tropical aromas, that seem to constantly change the longer it remains opened … Balanced through and through: good acidity, great flavours, and just the right amount of sweetness. This just might be Ontario’s best Riesling and once you’ve tasted it you’ll know why it won’t be around long, either on the shelf or in your glass … thank God for the long finish. (Michael Pinkus, www.ontariowinereview.com, April 14, 2006) |
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|
| Canada Red
Wines - May 2007 |
| British Columbia |
| BURROWING OWL MERITAGE 2004 | | VQA Okanagan Valley |
| | 
|
695148 (XD) 750 mL $ 65 |
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| Tasting note: Smoke-tinged aromas lead into dense chocolate, vanilla bean and blackberry flavors. The mouthfeel bellows complexity, texture, and structure, and the finish is elegant. An enlivening partner for lamb stew (65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, and, for the first time in Burrowing Owl's Meritage, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec). Highly Recommended. (Northwest Palate, Jan./Feb. 2007) |
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| |
| Australia Red
Wines - May 2007 |
| Australia |
| ARAKOON DOYEN SHIRAZ 2004 | | McLaren Vale, South Australia | | | | 34892 (D) 750 mL $ 55 |
| |
| This is considered the biggest and the best of the whole Arakoon line, and this 2004 is no exception. Round, ripe, polished and almost exuberant, this is a full-flavoured, long finishing wine that will reward 3-5 years in a cellar, or enjoy it tonight with a t-bone or bison steak. |
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| CHARLES CIMICKY THE AUTOGRAPH SHIRAZ 2004 |
| Barossa Valley, South Australia |
| |
| 27326 (D) 750 mL $ 41 |
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Tasting note: The dense purple-tinged 2004 Autograph (a 100% Shiraz from 45-year-old vineyards, aged 18 months in new American oak as well as a small quantity of French wood) exhibits a tight but promising nose of black raspberries, cassis, licorice, and acacia flowers. The ample fruit suggested by the aromatic profile is obvious on the attack, and the wine reveals impressive purity, texture, and persistence. It should drink well for 10-15 years. For some reason, this high quality winery never receives the press it merits. Drink 2005-2020. Score - (92-94). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2005)
|
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| CLARENDON HILLS LIANDRA VINEYARD SYRAH 2004 |
| McLaren Vale, South Australia |
| |
| 702332 (XD) 750 mL $ 157 |
| |
Tasting note: The 2004 Syrah Liandra was fashioned from 100-year-old vines grown in clay and sandy soils. Its inky/purple color is followed by a big, sweet nose of creme de cassis, blackberries, tar, and hints of smoke and bay leaves. Full-bodied, opulent, and rich with low acidity as well as sweet tannin, it can be drunk young or cellared for 10-15+ years. Score - (92). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2005)
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| CLONAKILLA SHIRAZ/VIOGNIER 2005 | | Canberra District, New South Wales | | | | 27367 (XD) 750 mL $ 73 |
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| Tasting note: The brilliant 2005 Shiraz/Viognier reveals a dark ruby/purple hue along with an exotic, flamboyant bouquet of peach jam intermixed with blueberry and blackberry liqueur. Deep and rich with excellent precision, full body, sweet tannin, and decent acidity, it can be enjoyed over the next decade. Drink 2006-2016. Score - 91. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2006) |
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| |
| GLAYMOND ASIF CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2004 |
| Barossa Valley, South Australia |
| |
| 34918 (D) 750 mL $ 44 |
| |
| Dan Philips, contributing editor at Wine & Food magazine had this to say about Glaymond: "Glaymond is a gold mine. I’m not kidding. If it’s not THE key vineyard site in the Barossa, it’s one of them. It’s been a key supplier to Rockford, St. Hallet’s Old Block, Grange, and Torbreck. The vineyards are in the Northwest, right next door to the Greenock Creek ‘Creek Block’ vineyard. I suppose it was only a matter of time before young Damien Tscharke took over from his father and got the itch to make wine. This is a winery to watch. |
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| | | GLAYMOND LANDRACE SHIRAZ/MATARO 2004 | | Barossa Valley, South Australia | | |
| 658492 (XD) 750 mL $ 46 |
| |
| The 2007 James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion gave this "outstanding" winery its highest rating of *****. |
| |
| Tasting note: Blends of 60% Shiraz and 40% Mataro (Mourvedre), the 2004 and 2005 Landrace are both outstanding. The 2004 is more powerful (16.5% alcohol), but there is no raisiny, pruny, or over ripeness in evidence, which shows that thinking within strictly defined parameters of ripeness just simply does not make sense in many viticultural areas of the world, especially if you are comparing a New World vineyard to one from the Old World. The dense ruby/purple-colored 2004 Landrace exhibits notes of blueberries, damp earth, and sweet black truffles. It is a wine of great intensity, richness, body, and loads of glycerin and rich fruit that easily cover what I am sure are relatively elevated tannins. This wine should drink well for 10-15 years. Score - 93. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006) |
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| | | JIM BARRY THE ARMAGH SHIRAZ 2002 | | Clare Valley, South Australia |
| |
| 729129 (D) 750 mL $ 149 |
| |
| Tasting note: Amazingly, the 2002 Shiraz The Armagh is even better than the McRae Wood. This cuvee is aged 14 months in both French and American oak, and is bottled without filtration. The inky/purple-colored 2002 The Armagh boasts notes of scorched earth, chocolate, leather, blackberries, and cassis. Its huge body, marvelous integration of acidity, tannin, and alcohol, and stunning finish of 60+ seconds are impressive. While accessible, it will be even better with 1-2 more years of bottle age, and should evolve for 12-15+. Drink 2005-2019. Score - 99. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2004) |
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| MAGPIE ESTATE THE ELECTION SHIRAZ 2004 | | Barossa Valley, South Australia | | | | 34926 (XD) 750 mL $ 54 |
| |
| Tasting note: The deep, full-bodied, intense, opulent, inky/purple-tinged 2004 Shiraz Election offers loads of toasty oak, blackberry and cassis fruit, smoke, and meaty characteristics. It is a big, mouth-staining Shiraz that fans of Euro-styled, more elegant reds will find too much of a good thing. It should drink well for a decade. Drink 2006-2016. Score - 92. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006) |
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| | | TORBRECK RUN RIG 2003 | | Barossa Valley, South Australia | | |
| 997874 (D) 750 mL $ 255 |
| |
| Tasting note: The estate’s flagship cuvee is the virtually perfect 2003 Run Rig. Made from 8 separate Barossa vineyards (ranging in age from 94 to 158 years), it is primarily Shiraz with 4-5% co-fermented Viognier included in the blend. The wine was aged in French oak of which 60% is new. The sensational, inky/purple-tinged 2003 exhibits a stunningly sweet nose of blackberries, blueberries, litchi nuts, smoked meats, and a hint of apricots. Elegant yet super-powerful, rich, concentrated, and long, it is a tour de force in winemaking as well as a modern classic example of Barossa Shiraz. It should drink well for 20-25 years. Score - 99. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006) |
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| TURKEY FLAT VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2001 | | Barossa Valley, South Australia | | | | 636373 (XD) 750 mL $ 43 |
| |
| Tasting note: The saturated purple-colored 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon is top-flight. Notes of figs, black currants, tobacco leaf, and earth cascade from the glass of this full-bodied, ripe, noticeably tannic Cabernet. Long and dense, 1-3 years of bottle age appears warranted. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2015. Score - 92. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Aug. 2003) |
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| TWO HANDS BELLA'S GARDEN SHIRAZ 2005 | | McLaren Vale, South Australia | | |
| 636407 (D) 750 mL $ 65 |
| |
| This "stunningly complex" Shiraz received scores in the mid-90s from both Robert Parker Jr. and Wine Spectator for each of its last three vintages. An aromatic tidal wave of ripe plums and succulent blackberries laced with a hint of cedar spice cascade on the nose. Elegant fruit purity is not sacrificed by this wine's amazing depth and power. More critical praise surely awaits the 2005 vintage. |
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| |
| Australia White
Wines - May 2007 |
| Australia |
| GROSSET POLISH HILL RIESLING 2006 | | Clare Valley, South Australia | | |
| 932962 (XD) 750 mL $ 35 |
| |
| Wine Spectator, Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar and the Wine Enthusiast have all bestowed scores in the 90s on the last several vintages of this beautiful white. The 2006 vintage had yet to be reviewed by them. |
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| Tasting note: A shapely and finely presented Polish Hill that will develop beautifully in the bottle, but perhaps for not as long as its more classic vintages. Scented with minerally notes of lime and talcum powder, its floral perfume remains delicate and rather closed. Long and supple, its smooth and stylish palate of intensely concentrated lime juice, lemon rind, paw paw and white peach flavours fruit belies the earliness of the season, culminating in a tightly sculpted finish of musky fruit and citru | | | | |
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