Blair WineLover

Pérez Cruz Reserva Limited Edition Carmenère 2012

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

Terre Del Barolo Barbaresco 2006, Docg

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

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.

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.

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.

Bodega Noemía A Lisa 2012, Patagonia

Smooth, rich and complex. I just bought three more.

Small Gully Mr. Black's Little Book Shiraz 2010, Barossa Valley

I don't think you can appreciate this wine from one taste right out the bottle. Some time in the carafe removed all trace of the few rough edges. This is extremely rich and smooth, with great finish. I tried one, bought a case, had another, then bought two more cases. It is that good.

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.

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.