Tyler Philp

Stanza Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Lodi

Lodi is much further north than the popular AVA’s (American Viticultural Areas) of Napa and Sonoma and I’ve enjoyed some really good wines for surprising little cost from the region. This Cali-Cab shows dusty tannins and a nice hit of red fruit. A nicely balanced wine that will pair well with steaks on the BBQ. (northof9finewine.com, May 2011)

Henri Bourgeois Petit Bourgeois Sauvignon 2009, Vin De Pays Du Loire

This one starts out soft and increases in intensity as you sip. Classic varietal aromas and obvious lemon and green apple on the palate. It’s medium dry so expect a touch of sweetness. I love old-world Sauvignon Blanc and this is why. (northof9finewine.com, May 2011)

Masi Levarie 2010, Soave Classico

A clean wine with aromas of lemon and grapefruit citrus; crisp mineral notes on the palate with a touch of sweetness and an interesting grassy/herbs twist. Quite nice. Tasted Jan 2012.

Masi Masianco 2010, Veneto Igt

This is a tremendous value dry Italian white. To say it is mineral driven would be an understatement; dry, crisp, and clean through to the finish. Fantastic with shellfish or pasta salads and even better chilled on a hot summer day. Tasted June 2012.

Arboleda Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Acongagua Valley

Herbal notes and a slight grass aroma greet you before a good hit of lime citrus, melon, and subtle spiciness on the palate. A clean light bodied wine with crisp acidity that should pair well with salads on the patio this summer.

Hardys Stamp Series Riesling Gewurztraminer 2010, Southeastern Australia

Very little variation from one year to the next under this label which works out well for the consumer by providing a reliable off dry go-to white for under $10 bucks.

My review from the previous vintage applies here as well: This one puts many $15 bottles I've tasted to shame. Great citrus notes and a nice balance of sweetness and acidity. The Gewürztraminer adds an element of spice to the sweetness of the Riesling.

Megalomaniac Narcissist Riesling 2009, Edra's Vineyard, VQA Niagara Peninsula

Somewhere between Kabinett and Spätlese in terms of style, this Niagara Riesling has an expressive nose of classic lemon/lime while the taste is off-dry but still very clean with a faint expression of minerality. I understand the winemaker has also included just a touch of Icewine in the recipe too… neat!

Elgin Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Wo Elgin

Wonderful clean nose of zesty grapefruit and lychee followed by some characteristic grass/herbal spice on the palate all wrapped up in Sauvignon’s pungent finish. This one is quite good!

Errázuriz Wild Ferment Pinot Noir 2010, Casablanca Valley

Well I don't think it's faulty but egatz this is raunchy smelling stuff. Aromas of raw meat, leather, and musk. A bitter, dry finish follows a medium body of cherry, red currants, and spiced notes. I can think of a dozen Chilean wines for half the price that out perform this example. Tasted Jan 2012.

Masi Bonacosta 2010, Valpolicella Classico

A consistently reliable red for your casual gatherings. Expect smooth tannins with notes of cherry and raspberry. A good level of acidity will pair perfectly with a wide range of food styles, but it also sips well on its own. Tasted July 2012.