Tyler Philp

Allegrini La Grola 2006, Igt Veronese

The composition of this wine changes from one year to the next and thus it is classified with an IGT label This one is a blend of 80% Corvina and 20% Syrah. I have enjoyed La Grola so many times that I have lost count and it is always incredible. Expect a velvety smooth, medium to full bodied wine rich with cherry, chocolate, and spice. The 2006 vintage in Veneto was exceptional and therefore the wines are quite structured and complex. Let this one sit on its side until 2012+ and then enjoy with rich meal and good friends. (Northof9finewine, April 2011)

Domaine Feuillat Juillot Cuvée Les Grappes D'or 2009, Montagny 1er Cru

The village of Montagny is located within the Côte de Chalonnaise, a region in the south of Burgundy where only white wine can bear the village's name. The 1er cru status is an indication of greater ripeness of the fruit and higher resultant alcohol.

It's drinking well now and shows notes of crisp apple, pear and the slightest butter-cream character. It will also continue to develop in the bottle for up to 5 years over which the ripe citrus characteristics will give way to a softer mouth-feel.. but it's soooo good right now and what a steal for under $25!
-synthetic cork

Cantina Del Pino Barbaresco 2006, Docg

If you enjoy the great wines of Barolo, then you likely already know about Barbaresco. Approachable earlier than its big brother, this Italian star is also made in Piedmont with Italy’s Nebbiolo grape. The wine is bold in its youth but softens relatively quickly to display aromas of violet, cherry, and licorice. Expect a medium to full bodied wine that will pair well with wild game. Enjoy this one after 2012.

Warre’s Otima 10 Year Old Port, Douro Valley (500ml)

A very fair effort in terms of terms of 10 yr tawnies. A nice nuttiness mixed with apricots on the nose but a slight tang on the palate that fades with some air. Good sweetness and a nice round mouth feel. Better the next day. (northof9finewine, Feb 2011)

Veuve Clicquot Brut, Champagne, France

The Clicquot Yellow label is made with 2/3 black fruit (Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier) and 1/3 white (Chardonnay) in a dry (Brut) style which is fairly typical in terms of traditional Champagne 'brands' and I've enjoyed this one countless times. Rumor has it though, that to keep up with demand, the house of Clicquot is now releasing this product into the market considerably earlier than in the past, which might explain a more pronounced level of acidity. I suggest cellaring this 750ml bottle for a year or two before opening. Cheers! (Northof9finewine, March 2011)

Domaine Saint Rémy Réserve Gewurztraminer 2008, Ac Alsace

The North of 9 tasting group sampled five different ‘Gewurtz’ last week at our monthly tasting session and unfortunately this Alsace label was unavailable at that time. Wonderful fruit – peach, lychee, and some grapefruit; sweeter than most with great balance and lovely honey aftertaste. Nice on its own or with an Asian dish. I really enjoyed this! (northof9finewine, Feb 2011)

Momo Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Marlborough, South Island

Sometimes I find NZ Sauv a bit too aggressive compared to the old-world style of Loire. But this example shows a good balance of fruit and acidity with exotic fruits and a lovely grassy character which works quite well. I enjoyed this. (Northof9finewine, April 2011)

Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2004, Igt Veronese

Found this buried in the cellar and opened it without a great deal of thought. As a big fan of Allegeini's La Grola label, I blindly expected this to reflect a similar character. The Palazzo della Torre a much bigger wine in terms aroma and flavour intensity. Loaded with extracted black fruit and jam-like richness, at 8 years it still has the ability to overpower. Decant before serving and hold newer vintages. Tasted Oct 2012

St. Supéry Merlot 2007, Napa Valley

A full-bodied Merlot that surprisingly shows more earthiness than fruit on the nose; I like that. At 14.5%, the alcohol is not overbearing but rather is nicely integrated with the raspberry notes and hint of dry cocoa powder on the finish.

Domaine Grand Veneur Les Champauvins Côtes Du Rhône Villages 2007, Ac

It needs some air; let it breath for an hour or so. Only then, does the tannic hold loosen its grip to reveal a softer wine with generous amounts of blackberry, plum and hints of dried red currant intermixed with earthy undertones. A slightly green herbal note lingers throughout. Tasted Nov 2011