Tyler Philp

Castello Di Nipozzano Mormoreto 2005, Igt Toscana

I have enjoyed this wine (in previous vintages) on several occasions. Toscana IGT indicates this is a ‘SuperTuscan’ made with grapes not traditional to the Italy’s Tuscany region. This is high-end Frescobaldi and you will not be disappointed but don’t rush into this one, it needs 3 -5 years to find its sweet spot. Over time, the tannins will soften and the fruit will integrate to become full bodied and velvety smooth.

Alain Hudelot Noellat Chambolle Musigny 2005, Ac

Lovely Chambolle and a clear demonstration that even at the village level, when Burgundy gets it right, nothing else can compare. Elegantly ageing red in the decanter showing only minimal signs of maturity at 7 years; subtle red fruit and spice on the nose and a juicy palate of raspberry and cherry sensations. The fruit intertwines beautifully with the a hint of spice on the lasting finish.
If you have this label in your cellar, now is the time - Absolutely stunning! Tasted again Sept 2012.

Graham's 20 Year Old Tawny Port, Douro Valley (500ml)

This is really nice tawny and the 500ml bottle is perfect for sitting by the fire with your sweetie! There is an initial bite that some people like (I don't) but it smooths out beautifully in the glass. And if there is any left the next day, it tastes like the Graham's 30 which is absolute perfection in a bottle if you ever have a chance to buy one.

Try this tawny at room temperature with milk chocolate.

Moulin Touchais Coteaux Du Layon 1996, Coteaux Du Layon

This Loire icon is for the serious wine enthusiast. Still in its youth in terms of approachability right now. Notes of petrol are not unusual with this style of wine but it fades with age bringing honey, almond extract, and apricot. The wine is not as sweet as you might expect and if you do open the '96 anytime soon, do so the day before you intend to drink it. You will be amazed by the difference 24 hrs will make.

Conde De Valdemar Gran Reserva 2001, Doca Rioja

This is one of the nicest bottles of Rioja that I have ever tasted. Absolutely classic in terms of style, velvety smooth with rich flavours of cherry, raspberry, and a hint of spice on the finish. The fruit is not overpowering. Instead, Bodega Valdemar perfectly balances the finesse of the old-world with the intensity of the new. I would be very surprised to hear that someone did not thoroughly enjoy this Gran Reserva.

Studert Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese 2007, Prädikatswein

I have yet to serve this wine to someone who does not enjoy it. The spätlese (late harvest) designation indicates a greater degree of ripeness and therefore higher sugar level at harvest. That however, does not mean that the resultant wine is necessarily sweeter, and this is a brilliant example of exactly that.

Clean, fresh and lively with the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. Round in the mouth and slightly herbal for a moment before tastes of honey and apricot linger indefinitely. A stunning wine that will keep you returning for more. Tasted again April 2012.

Hidden Bench Estate Chardonnay 2007, VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula

Ontario's Hidden Bench hit the nail right on the head in 2007 with their Estate Chardonnay. The exceptional vintage conditions in Ontario that year allowed both red and white varietals to ripen to their full potential laying the path to a great wine by any standard. There is a soft oakiness to this Chardonnay; a touch of the old-world with some refreshing notes of the new. While quite full on the palate, this wine has some soft citrus notes that follow up its traditional oaked style. You could easily pair this with a delicate white fish and I will confidently say that it even has the stuffing the accent your holiday turkey feast.

Sandeman Vau Vintage Port 2000

Think of this as faux fur or leather; it's not exactly the real thing, but it is certainly not far off the mark - Vintage Port with a modern twist and perhaps a little more user friendly. This is vintage port for those who don't have the patience to wait 15-20 years. Blackberries, plums, cassis, and a touch of spice; you really can't go wrong here. Decant before serving to soften any hard edges and enjoy it with a rich dessert.

Domaine La Grappe D'or Pouilly Fumé 2008, Ac

I've been drinking new world sauvignon lately so this is a very welcome change. So often is sauvignon blanc overpowering but this one is less aggressive; soft mineral notes on the nose and beautifully rich on the palate; great citrus acidity but good balance with a lovely butter aftertaste. Tasted alongside rosemary chicken and oven-roasted vegetables. (northof9finewine, Feb 2011)

Masi Costasera Amarone 2006, Veneto

Reliable. That's what this is. Masi has hit the nail right on the head with their amarone in 2006 but then, the Costasera is always good. This is a big wine, full bodied and full throttle - one glass is enough but you'll come back for another. Expect dark fruits, some spice and yes, chocolate - that does it for me every time. Decant well before serving or cellar it for years to come.