Steve Elder

Trapiche Extravaganza White Blend 2015

Château Des Charmes Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016, VQA St. David's Bench, Niagara On The Lake

Batasiolo Bosc Dla Rei Moscato D'asti 2019, Docg

Hacienda Lopez De Haro Reserva 2005, Doca Rioja

Medium ruby, not really showng much age. Nose is dominated by cedary notes and spice, with just a hint of fruit (reflecting its age I suppose). Quite round and tasty, however, with med to full body and a good lingering tannic finish. Made for food. A touch austere. Will hold a few more years, but I doubt it will reveal much more.

Beringer Founders' Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2015

Toro Bravo Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc 2019, La Mancha

Château Des Capucins 2009, Ac Lalande De Pomerol

Quinta Do Crasto Old Vines Reserva 2007, Doc Douro

Domaine Gille Côtes De Nuits Villages 2008, Ac, Prop. Récolt.

Wow, this punches way above its weight. I would say it's at its peak right now (Nov 2011), but will likley hold a while. Good deep ruby colour. A very attractive fruit-forward nose, underpinned by some nice mineral complexity. Similar flavours. Clean as a whistle, too, with decent body and length to tie it all together. Rates very high on the "Yum" scale.

Herencia Remondo La Montesa 2006, Doca Rioja

Definitely in the modern style; well crafted with nice ripe fruit and just enough spicy complexity to keep you interested.

Someone used to the heavily oaked and aged "old school" would have a hard time identifying this as Rioja.

Justifies the price, but no more.