Blair WineLover

Rosewood Estates Merlot 2010, VQA Niagara Escarpment

There are lots of wonderful tastes here, as said in the Critic Reviews. But, while it improved with time, it never got smooth enough to quite rate a ninety, or really be worth the money. But then, maybe smoothness is more important to me than for others.

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.

Santa Rita Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2011, Casablanca Valley

I don't get it. It tastes like cheap wine to me. Not worth the price.

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.

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.

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.

Argiolas Costera 2009, Doc Cannonau Di Sardegna

Medicinal herbs is an interesting way to describe what is wrong with this wine. Using a caraffe helped a bit, and the wine did grow on me over time.

Château Des Charmes Old Vines Riesling 2008, VQA Niagara On The Lake

This wonderful, rich tasting wine is one of the best Canadian wines I have had for a while. Too bad it is gone.

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.