Tyler Philp

Warre's Otima Tawny 20 Ans (500ml)

I’ve been drinking this barrel-aged port for several years but have always had to purchase out-of-province so it’s nice to finally see the 20-year Warre’s at the LCBO. Next to Kopke, Warre’s is the oldest brand of port; I believe the house was established in 1670! This wine shows a lovely nose of figs, raisin, and apricot. A slight orange-peel tang greets you on the palate but it quickly fades in the glass to show that great tawny smoothness. You’ll enjoy this! (northof9finewine.com, May 2011)

Remo Farina Monte Fante Riserva Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico 2004, Doc

Where to start… a carrousel of aroma and flavour spinning in perfect harmony with layer after layer of cassis, cocoa and spice. The hint of cherry-chocolate sweetness is immediately followed by the most incredible black pepper finish; an expensive bottle but you really should try this!

Bonny Doon Vineyard Le Cigare Volant 2006, California

But for the pronounced black pepper spice on the finish, this wine is not unlike a high end Pinot Noir. I was chatting with founder and winemaker Randall Grahm online the other day and expressed exactly those thoughts to which he responded: “Cool. I can confess just between us that with every wine I make what I really want to be making is pinot noir.”
Transparency is the key here. Don’t expect a stylistic, over-blown California red; this reflects another place and another time. Earth-driven aromas intertwine with cinnamon and cherry. Across the palate, a medium body filled with cherry, raspberry, cracked pepper, and sage all demonstrate purity and clean lines. Nothing is masked by artificial additives or industrial meddling; this is a fantastic bottle of wine intended for those who prefer to think while they drink! Tasted Dec 2011.

Domaine Des Bernardins Muscat De Beaumes De Venise 2009, Ac, Vin Doux Naturel

Pale tawny-orange colour in the glass and incredibly fragrant; aromas of orange peel and apricot with a slightly solvent scent but in the most positive way imaginable. There is an initial combination of sweetness and clarity that quickly fades to a delicious creamy finish that lasts indefinitely. This is nowhere near as sweet as one would expect which is certain to appeal to a wider audience. Do not over chill. Tasted again Aug 2012.

Château Guiraud 2007, Ac Sauternes (375ml)

– 2006 vintage reviewed:

Brilliant sweet nectar from Bordeaux and a logical alternative to some of the more potently sweet styles of dessert wine. Apricots abound and honey too; subtle notes of lemon and nectarine tantalize the taste buds under a clean, delicate freshness that first timers will find breathtaking. Sauternes combines a degree of sweetness and body similar to Riesling at the Auslese level but with an element of finesse unique to Atlantic coastal climate which has placed this region at the very top of the dessert wine ziggurat.

Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz 2008, Barossa Valley

The effect of time on this wine is tremendous; give it a couple of years in the cellar or decant 2-3 hours before serving.
You can expect a full bodied but balanced dose of black fruit, spice and smoke. This is a big wine but it is not over-extracted. Very enjoyable with grilled meat on a special occasions. Tasted July 2012.

Tedeschi Amarone Della Valpolicella 2007, Doc

The '07 Amarone is the best I have tasted from the this house. Ultra concentrated in the glass showing aromas of raisin, fig, rich blackberry, and chocolate. To taste is divine... mouth-coating flavour and intensity; no edge whatsoever and ready to drink right now. Outstanding with a bite of milk chocolate. Tasted Nov 2012.

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

Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Demi Sec

This is not the popular Clicquot but I think it's the better one. Demi-Sec means half-dry or semi-sweet. Expect citrus notes, toasted almonds, and a smooth mouth feel. Nicely balanced; this is really good Champagne and it goes well as a dessert compliment or even all on its own.

Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District 2004, Napa Valley

The Clos du Val SLD finish third at the North of 9 California Cab tasting.
This was good, but I expected much more. An old-world cab by comparison to so many others from the region. A deep rich red colour and an earthiness greet you initially; mushroom and truffle - the fruit is there but it`s rather subdued. I enjoyed this but I was looking for something rounder on the palate. Decant 2-3 hrs before serving. (Tasted June 2010, Northof9finewine)