Tyler Philp

Château De Meursault Meursault 2005, Ac

Opened this again the other day and was impressed for the fifth time. This was the top wine at the North of 9 ‘White Burgundy' tasting last year and I have enjoyed this label in both the structured tasting environment and at the dinner table. Lovely perfume of almond and soft citrus; rich but still very soft on the palate with notes of vanilla, honey and melon - Exceptional Chardonnay. (northof9finewine, April 2010)

20 Bees Chardonnay Unoaked 2008, Ontario VQA

This arrived on our doorstep in a gift bag as a hostess gift. Rather than return it to the store for a credit toward something a bit more serious, I decided to try it...

There is a combination of citrus and yeast on the nose but it's the lemon hit that really caught me. The acidity holds this one together nicely though it does become a touch flabby as it warms in the glass. Not bad and certain worth trying.

Wunsch & Mann Premiere Selection Gewurztraminer 2008, Ac Alsace

Shows a lovely combination on the nose of citrus and spice. On the palate the wine was initially quite subdued but after an hour or so came alive with clean flavours of white fruit; perfect for a summertime sipper. Don't over chill this one. (northof9finewine, Feb 2011)

Finca Sophenia Reserve Merlot 2006, Tupungato, Mendoza, Estate Btld.

This one seems to have mellowed significantly since the last time I tasted it. Aromas of new leather, black cherry, and spice. Full-bodied on the palate with pronounced but not intrusive sour cherry, currant and a dry lasting finish. Argentina is world famous for their high quality beef, so why not try this with peppercorn-crusted beef tenderloin. (Northof9finewine, April 2011)

Château Les Bertrands 2009, Ac

Though you won't find it in bold print anywhere on the label, dry white wine from Bordeaux is almost always Sauvignon Blanc; this one has a touch of Muscadelle added to it. The French have been crafting great Sauvignon for longer than anyone else, they just don't market it with fancy advertising campaigns. The '09 Chateau les Bertrands shows very fragrant floral aromas with a hint of pear. On the palate, the wine is medium bodied and beautifully balanced with rather pronounced lime on the finish which I really enjoyed. This wine will go beautifully with white fish or sea scallops.

St. Hallett Shiraz/Grenache 2009, Barossa, South Australia

There's lots of fruit here but not overpowering and it's followed by a hint of black pepper. Nice round mouth-feel and finish of raspberry and cassis. Very easy to drink.

Selbach Oster Riesling Kabinett 2008, Qmp, Zeltinger Sonnenuhr

I’ve got to share this one with you. On the nose, a bizarre combination of campfire smoke and axle grease – seriously, I can’t make this stuff up! I sat for a good five minutes absolutely fascinated with the aromas before I even tasted the wine; full on the palate; rich, almost nectar-like with apricot, peach, and lemon. This off dry Riesling will cellar for years to come but why bother, drink it now! (Northof9finewine, April 2011)

Beronia Gran Reserva 2001, Doca Rioja

At a recent tasting, I had the pleasure of sampling the younger sibling of this wine, Beronia's Reserva, and found it to be very impressive. The label in this release however, is the next step up and let's just say that 'You are in for a real treat.' In Spain, a gran reserva must spend a minimum of five years in the winery of which two must be in oak casks or barrels. The oak softens the wine and imparts a complexity that simply cannot be replicated in stainless steel. A bodega (Spanish for winery) will only produce a gran reserva in exceptional years and the Beronia Gran Reserva is the product of great care in the cellar from an outstanding vintage. Try this with brazed lamb or pork tenderloin with grilled vegetables.

Cattier Chigny Les Roses Brut Champagne, Ac, 1er Cru

As far a Champagne goes, this wine is a nice transition to 'finer things' for those who tend to guzzle Spumante Bambino on New Year's Eve. Cattier is typically on par with many of the 'popular' Champagne houses, though for half the price. Try it, you'll like it and I bet you never drink fizzy sugar water again...

Balthasar Ress Riesling Spätlese 1997, Qmp, Hattenheim Nussbrunnen

Shockingly similar to aged Chenin from Loire but clearly German Riesling by taste. On the nose, initially petrol followed by vanilla, almond, and apricot. Full bodied with honey, apple and lemon. It's not a fresh, crisp, or young wine so don't expect those characteristics; no, this one is fantastic in a different way. Lovely! (Northof9finewine, March 2011)