Blair WineLover

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.

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.

Château Des Charmes Equuleus Paul Bosc Estate Vineyards 2010, Niagara Peninsula

I taste prunes, with a little Cabernet Franc buzz. Very smooth, with no flaws. It definitely grew on me.

Marqués De Cáceres Gran Reserva 2004, Doca Rioja

Very smooth, with no flaws. So smooth I cannot pick out individual tastes. The only problem is that I could drink this all day. It seems that most of the good values these days are Spanish wines, properly aged at a decent price. Thirty bucks is a lot, but this is worth it.

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.

Monte Del Frá Bardolino 2011

David is right on. The main taste for me is cherries, and it is quite smooth with a decent finish. It starts well and grows with each glass. I can't quite give it a 90, but it is very good especially for the price. I will buy more of this one.

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.

Alvaro Castro Red 2008, Doc Dão

I am learning the keywords in the reviews to identify wines that will not work for me. Evergreen and lavender apparently refer to a taste that I expect in a cheap wine. In my opinion, this seeming bargain is barely worth it's price.

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.

Domaine De L'aigle à Deux Têtes En Griffez Côtes Du Jura 2009, Ac

Very soft and subtle. You need to pay attention to appreciate it. But perfectly smooth, with no flaws.