Steve Elder

Murua Reserva 2007, Doca Rioja

Tucked a couple of these away for a few years. I think Mr. Szabo's judgement on longevity is right: this will go years yet. At 11 years of age, this is just softening, with good colour, vibrant tart fruit, spice flavours, and loads of oak in the traditional Rioja style. Long, oaky finish with the tannins still noticeable. Quite yummy in the classic idiom. But you'd better like oak!

Fontanafredda Barolo 2011

Pale ruby. Quite pleasant aromas of dried flowers and berries, with a touch of cedar. Med bodied, round with the tannins well resolved at this point. Restrained by pleasing.

Domaine Lafage Cuvée Centenaire 2014, Ac Côtes Du Roussillon

Montes Outer Limits Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Zapallar Coast

Taylor Fladgate Late Bottled Vintage 2011, Douro Superior

Viticcio Chianti Classico 2012, Docg

This just isn't doing it for me. Nice enough aromatics -- spice, dried flowers -- but rather thin flavour profile. Second bottle, same impression.

Tessellae Carignan Vieilles Vignes 2014, Côtes Catalanes

Lafage Côté Sud 2014, Igp Côtes Catalanes

Giacomo Borgogno & Figli Langhe Freisa 2014, Doc

Great little wine, driven by bright berry flavours, freshness and a nice hint of spice. A great not-Pinot wine for lovers of that grape

Miguel Torres Cordillera De Los Andes Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Maipo Valley