Steve Elder

Gemtree Uncut Shiraz 2015, Mclaren Vale, South Australia

Ken Forrester Old Vine Reserve Chenin Blanc 2019, Wo Stellenbosch

Barón De Ley Gran Reserva 2016, D.O.Ca Rioja

Ferraton Père & Fils La Matinière Crozes Hermitage 2017, Ac, Rhône

This is just lovely at the moment. Pours a deep ruby, starting to amber a bit. Fresh berries and a hint of eucalyptus on the nose, followed by pepper and dried herbs. Medium bodied, ripe and fresh, with a nice lingering finish of dried fruit and herbs (“garrigue” I suppose). I recall disappointment at the first bottle, but not now!

Il Poggio Taburno Sannio Coda Di Volpe 2018, Dop

Il Molino Di Grace Riserva Chianti Classico 2009, Docg

Classic Chianti, all savoury and umami-laden at this stage but still quite vital.

Henry Of Pelham Cuvée Catharine Rosé Brut, VQA Niagara Peninsula

Domaine Taupenot Merme Gevrey Chambertin 2005, Ac

Ambering to a pale red at this point. Very fragrant and fresh on the nose, especially when just opened. Much denser on the palate with the tannins still noticeable. Fruit is moving into the secondary phase. Note quite as much complexity as I'd hoped, but perhaps an "inbetween" state. Interesting to try again in a couple of years.

Tenuta Sette Ponti Crognolo 2019, Igt Toscana

Cave Spring Estate Blanc De Blancs, VQA Beamsville Bench

Nice classic styling — biscuity, leesy with ripe apple notes. Lively mousse if a bit course. Works well before and with food.