Steve Elder

El Esteco Don David Malbec Reserva 2021, Calchaqui Valley

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.