Tyler Philp

Paul Misset Vosne Romanée Les Barreaux 2002, Ac

This was my introduction to good Burgundy several years back which sent me off on a tangent in search of perfection from the Côtes de Nuits. If you ever see this wine or producer, I strongly recommend that you buy a few bottles. The '02 VR had lovely cherry and raspberries notes. The wine is soft and fresh on the palate but it shines brighter with food: can I suggest that you try it along side pork tenderloin with a Dijon mustard glaze - Unbelievable for a village wine!

Tenuta Sette Ponti Crognolo 2009, Igt Toscana

Deeply rich, ink staining colour with an intising nose of plum, blackcurrant, and herbs. The initial taste demonstrates the intensity of the Sangiovese while reflecting the softness of the Merlot in the blend. A slightly hollow mid-palate left me wondering if the Tuscan IGT might be experiencing at a lull at the moment, but the flavours returned for a lasting finish. I recommend cellaring this until 2014. Tasted Nov 2012

Graham's 20 Year Old Tawny Port, Dop, Portugal (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.

Domaine Huet Vouvray Le Haut Lieu 2007, Ac

Review of the 2009 vintage:
The lime filled aromas only hint at what the palate has to offer. Racy acidity assaults your taste buds in the most pleasing way imaginable, and it becomes increasingly more impressive by the sip as the air begins to soften the citrus infusion bringing to the surface mineral notes and a more softer honeyed tone. Stunning wine and one to hold for several years. Tasted Dec 2011

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.

E. Guigal Côte Rôtie Brune Et Blonde 2004, Ac

This is undoubtedly the best label for experiencing the essence of old-world syrah(shiraz) while still remaining somewhat affordable. Guigal is the shinning star of Northern Rhône and this is the most accessible wine of his high-end profile.
Sampled at the January 2010 North of 9 tasting session, the '04 vintage is a lighter style than the more aggressive '03s but if you normally drink heavily extracted Australia Shiraz, this will be a lesson well learned.
The '04 is 96% Syrah with an additional 4% Viognier.

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.

Estate Hatzimichalis Chardonnay 2010

Not that I have an issue with Greek wine, but this one really caught me by surprise. Captivating from the first whiff to the very last sip. Floral delicacy with subtle tropical aromas but in no way aggressive. Just a hint of effervescence and oak lead to an uplifting and highly refreshing taste – you’ll enjoy this! Tasted Sept 2012.

Maycas Del Limari Reserva Especial Syrah 2008, Limarí Valley

There is an uplifting character to this Chilean Syrah (Shiraz). It is loaded with all the classic characteristics but retains a degree of freshness at the same time. Dark fruit (blackberry and cherry) combine with chocolate and spice on the palate; this will pair with the more pronounced flavours of the holiday meal. Tasted Nov 2012

Falernia Reserva Syrah 2007, Elquí Valley

A fantastic earthy nose misleads you, for the palate shows great red fruit and the perfect amount of acidity. Lots of extraction during the winemaking process has created a deep, dark, and full flavoured Syrah. Enjoy it with ribs on the bbq. (northof9finewine.com, June 2011)