Blair WineLover

Polkura Syrah 2009, Marchigue, Colchagua Valley

This is a very pleasant, subtle syrah, well worth fifteen dollars. At $24, not so much. I don't think it has nearly the depth to rate a 92, and I did not notice much of a finish.

Trinity Hill Gimblett Gravels Syrah 2010, Hawkes Bay

The bouquet has a musty, slightly off smell. The wine itself is subdued, with a hint of pepper. Unfortunately the flaws in this wine become more apparent in the second glass. Rather a disappointment given David's positive review.

Update: Unfotunately I bought two of these, based on the review. But I can tell you that it was not just one bad bottle. This wine is a stinker.

Ontanon Gran Reserva 2001

There is a special taste in a well-aged wine that is hard to describe. The finish is amazing, and it get better with every taste. Even at this price, I intend to get a few more of these.

Hartenberg Shiraz 2007, Wo Stellenbosch

Such a wonderful rich, fruitty bouquet. This must be what the wine was rated on. The taste led with an unexpected caramel flavor, which did not work for me. Over time other flaws became apparent. This does not reach the ninety level for me.

Finca Villacreces Pruno 2011

Look for the word PRUNO on the bottle, like in the picture. And that it what I taste, prunes. Smooth and pleasant, I think it is a decent value for the price, but not amazing.

Concha Y Toro Terrunyo Block 27 Carmenère 2008, Peumo Vineyard, Peumo, Cachapoal Valley

Overrated and overpriced. This is not smooth, nor does it have much flavour. Nice wrapping on the bottle.

Luca Malbec 2009, Uco Valley, Mendoza

Nice fruity flavor. Really smooth, with no flaws anywhere. Starts well, and improves with each taste. I am on my third glass now, and the chocolate taste keeps building. I started at 90, but am now bumping it up to 91, and intend to buy it again.

Castello Di Querceto Chianti Classico Riserva 2010

It just did not work for me. Maybe I should have waited like the reviewers suggested.

Domaine Du Grand Montmirail Vacqueyras 2009, Ac

At first it tasted like a rather ordinary Rhone, but either it grew on me, or else more time in the carafe helped. Maybe it really does need more time to be fully integrated.

Concha Y Toro Marques De Casa Concha Carmenère 2008, Peumo Vineyard

Unbelievably smooth and flawless from start to finish. It did not show much complexity. This is ideal to serve to non-wine-savvy guests, and very pleasant at any time.