Blair WineLover

Ridge Three Valleys 2009, Sonoma County

Cherry taste, leading into moderate spice, but not as much as I expected given the grapes involved. You think it is done, then the long finish kicks in. I was not impressed at first, but each sip brings out a little more complexity. Not really worth thirty five dollars.

Emiliana Novas Petit Verdot 2011, Colchagua Valley

Big and bold and reasonably smooth, it does not quite have the complexity to rate a ninety in my opinion. But a decent value for the price. (89)

UPDATE: I tried it again, after time in the carafe. I tasted a lot more complexity, so I will raise the score to 90. Excellent value.

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.

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.

Rompesedas 2006, Do Toro

Lots of complexity and a pepper finish. Great wine!

Belje Grasevina 2009, Suho Vrhunsko

I suppose there is a mineral taste to this wine, but not in a good way. Other than that, I do not relate to the other reviews at all. I view this as no more than cooking wine. Give this one a miss.

Marqués De Cáceres Tinto Reserva 2005, Doca Rioja

Another day, another great Rioja. It is nice that they are released when they are ready, instead of being told that they might be good in a few years. I will buy more of this.

Terre Del Barolo Barbaresco 2006, Docg

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

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.

Norman Hardie County Cabernet Franc 2012, VQA Prince Edward County

It starts with a distinctive prune flavour, with that unique Norman Hardie terroir taste in the background. It develops into a wonderful, complex symphony by the third glass. I recommend this more for when you have time to really appreciate it rather than as a casual sipping wine.