Tyler Philp

Malivoire Mottiar Chardonnay 2008, VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula

Exceptional Chardonnay and arguably the top wine in Malivoire's line-up. The oak influence is obvious on the nose but very well integrated. A citrus crispness is balanced by a soft and roundness to the body of this wine. Comparable to a much more expensive Côte du Beaune. Lovely! (northof9finewine, March 2011)

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.

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.

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, 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.

Blind River Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Marlborough, South Island

Reminds me of the Shower Massage commercial with the stodgy old fart; this wine too will awake your senses. Sauvignon Blanc fortissimo: grassy and herbal with loads of grapefruit; sour and bitter at the same time while only hinting at sweetness on the finish; laser focused acidity. Try it with Asian cuisine but avoid any salads that are vinegar based. Tasted July 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)

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

Domaine Roux Père & Fils Les Chaumes Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru 2009, Ac

The les Chaumes vineyard was divided long ago and this wine is sourced from the 'commune' side (therefore not a 1er cru as often written). That said, this is exceptional Chardonnay! And at this price, i`m shocked – it out performs many others at twice the price. I`ve enjoyed this label in both the `02 and `05 vintages and cannot recommend it any higher. Stunningly soft and complex. With a couple of years in the cellar the oak, fruit, and acidity will be in perfect harmony. Enjoy this with the turkey feast on Thanksgiving in 2013. Tasted April 2012.