Blair WineLover

Heredad De Baroja Gran Reserva 2001, Doca Rioja

What a contrast with the Australian fruit bomb I had last night, which, by the way, was very good. Even the reviewers here do not have much to say about fruit. For me, this wine is all about feel. A silky smooth beginning, followed by a complex and slightly hot middle. Then a long but subtle finish.

I would not introduce my country cousin to wine with this, but I find this wine to be a pleasant adventure.

Sister's Run Epiphany Shiraz 2008, Mclaren Vale, South Australia

The rich, intense taste hits you right from the start. But as is common for Australian Shiraz around this price point, it does not completely cover up the sharp edges. Shiraz lovers will score this higher than I do.

Vecchia Cantina Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2007

Tobacco and spice with a pepper note. Very smooth, good value. It really benefits fom an hour in a carafe to reduce the initial manure bouquet and bring out the flavours.

Château Des Moines 2009, Lalande De Pomerol

The other day I enjoyed one of my small stash of the 2008 vintage of this wine, which I love for its rich, interesting flavour. The 2009 is quite different, amazingly smooth and a bit more subdued. I have had $50 Brunello di Montalcino that was not this good. It is great now, so who knows how it will age. I intend to find out, I just ran out and bought a case. Can I say more?

Mapema Malbec 2009, Mendoza

Very rich and smooth, and stays that way to the third glass. I guess blackberry is the flavour; I am not so good at the fruits. Not a lot of complexity. But I like it. Decent value.

Montecillo Reserva 2006, Rioja

A very pleasant, smooth Rioja. Good length and reasonable complexity. At this price I will be buying more of it. Thanks for the tip, Steve.

Hewitson Miss Harry 2009, Barossa Valley, South Australia

Finally, an Australian wine that is not overrated. This one really is worth its 90. It is much more subtle and subdued than what one would expect. At first I would have placed it from the Napa Valley, but in time hints of Rhone begin to come through. I love it.

Terre Del Barolo Barbaresco 2006, Docg

I agree with the reviews, but it has enough complexity and finish to rate a little higher.

Pérez Cruz Reserva Limited Edition Carmenère 2012

Very nice, but not quite in ninety territory. Still, well worth the price.

Hidden Bench Chardonnay 2012, Beamsville Bench

Maybe I just do not appreciate chardonnay as much as others. I did not notice much with the bouquet. As for the taste, well, it is subtle. It is smooth and well integrated, but there was none of the magic I expected from all these reviews. It is very nice, but not amazing.