Blair WineLover

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.

Marqués De Cáceres Gran Reserva 2005, Doca Rioja

I have had a few high priced busts recently, so when I opened this one and the cork was rotten, it was oh, no, not again. But it was definitely not again. This wine is wonderful. Lots of pepper, complex and smooth. It is everything I hope for in a decent wine. Ah, finally.

Estate Argyros Assyrtiko 2011, Santorini

With so many great reviews, why is it that I think this is the worst wine I have had in a long time. It reminds me of the homemade wine I used to make many years ago, a bit of vinegar with some sweetness to compensate. It might pass as cooking wine, or maybe I should just pour it down the sink.

Cesari Mara Valpolicella Ripasso 2010, Veneto

Rich and smooth. A great value to have available in the general section, so you don't have to run out and buy a bunch before they are gone.

Cave De Roquebrun Roches Noires St. Chinian 2009, Ac

From the label: Generous tears on a rubis robe, this wine presents greedy notes of raspberry and blackberry. In the mouth, rounded tannins are a sign of well ageing. The attack is rich, a well balanced palate and a long finale with fruit aromas.

I could not possible match such fine prose, but this wine starts good, and becomes more amazing with every sip. And it does have a nice long finale.

Domaine Parent Pinot Noir Bourgogne 2011, Ac

In my view this is not smooth enough to rate a ninety. I am not convinced it is any better then Ontario's fifteen dollar Alvar.

Benmarco Malbec 2012

It has a slightly off taste (maybe I don't like anise/licorice), which does fade a bit with time, but I don't think this wine is worth the money.

Duckhorn Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Napa Valley

It does not have the complexity or long finish I would expect in a 90 rated wine. But the smoothness is amazing, with a slightly peppery mid-taste. This wine starts good and really grows. This would be a perfect introduction to great wine when serving less experienced wine drinkers. It seems a bit expensive, but not in stratosphere like other Napa wines.

I love it, and want more.

Versado Malbec 2010, Luján De Cuyo, Mendoza

Yes, very drinkable. Smooth with no flaws. I guess hand picking and berry sorting really work to remove unwanted flavours. The main taste I pick up is cherry. It lacks a little in complexity and depth, but this is a very good wine.

Château De Treviac 2010, Ap

While trying to find a word to describe the unique bouquet, I am afraid the term "cat piss" came to mind. That is a bit unfair, but it was my first impression. As for taste, my interpretation of "earth" and "woodsiness" is a slightly off sour taste. It does improve a bit by the end of the glass, but this wine just did not work for me.