Steve Elder

Concha Y Toro Terrunyo Peumo Vineyard Block 27 Carmenère 2011, Entre Cordilleras, Peumo, Cachapoal Valley

With a few years in the cellar, this has turned in to compelling wine. Starting to amber a bit. Very full with ripe fruit, underpinned by wood and spice notes. Balanced and carries the high alcohol well. Certainly justifies the “entry premium” price.

Muga Reserva 2015

Barone Ricasoli Brolio Bettino Chianti Classico 2018, D.O.C.G.

Hidden Bench Estate Pinot Noir Unfiltered 2019, VQA Beamsville Bench

Quinta Sta Eufêmia Late Bottled Vintage Port 2007, Unfiltered, Bottled In 2011

Not the most refined LBV I've ever tasted, but certainly good value.

Muga Reserva 2016, Doca Rioja

Marynissen Cabernet Franc 2020, VQA Niagara Peninsula

Quercecchio Brunello Di Montalcino 2015, D.O.C.G. Brunello Di Montalcino

Surprisingly light ruby shade, but more substance than the colour suggests. Med bodied, juicy and spicy, spreading across the palette with a nice array of herbal and flowery notes. Very nicely balanced, with the tannins mellowed and the alcohol carried well. A very nice drop, approachable and satisfying.

Daniel Rion & Fils Vieilles Vignes Nuits St Georges 2011

Sepurb Pinot Noir. Quite pale now, but brimming with life. Nose carries fantastic array of aromas of spice and fruit; eucalyptus too. Round, mouth filling, with ripe fruit and tannins. Plenty of great Pinot Noir out there from other regions, but this is why I still stump up for Burgundy. In hindsight, a very good buy. Earlier note: At very fine PN, with deep fruit and lots of complexity. Delicious.

Fattoria Di Basciano Il Corto 2009, Igt Colli Della Toscana Centrale

Another excellent Il Corto, although seems more evolved than the 2007 at a similar age. Packed with flavours of earth, spice, and dried fruit. Very Tuscan. Perhaps not quite as fine as the 2007.