Tyler Philp

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Tyler is a member of the Wine Writers' Circle of Canada and the Guild of Sommeliers. He writes about and reviews wine both online and via a variety of circulating publications.
In 2009 Tyler founded a free online wine education resource where he publishes his Thoughts, Theory, and Recommendations.
In the pages below, you will find a summary of my tasting notes to supplement much of the written material that I provide. Should I taste a wine and subsequently review that label, I do so because it offers something unique or of interest such as noted varietal or regional character.
My written articles and educational resource material can be found at www.tylerphilp.com and here at WineAlign via the CRU page.
For additional vinous related information and learning, follow on Twitter @TylerOnWine
Reviews
Domaine Du Chardonnay Chablis 2009, Ac
Burgundy, France$19.95
Chablis is a key component of the Burgundy region. It sits slightly higher in terms of latitude than the Côte de Beaune where Chardonnay is traditionally oak influenced. Chablis however is primarily unoaked and this example clearly demonstrates the region’s clean lines and mineral driven finesse. Lemon-lime freshness combines with green-apple and a good amount of minerality through to the finish. Quite nice. Tasted Feb 2012.
Falernia Reserva Syrah 2007, Elquí Valley
Chile$19.95
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)
Dr. H. Thanisch Riesling Auslese 2005, Qmp, Berncasteler Doctor (375ml)
Mosel, Germany$56.00
The peaches jump right out of the glass! Slightly honeyed with hints of almond extract and apple; it's sweet but not over so with a lovely crisp refreshing finish - fantastic stuff! 375ml btl. Tasted July 2011.
Carla Chiaro Reserve Malbec 2009, Mendoza
Mendoza, Argentina$14.95
A good value Argentinean red that will give back much more than you have invested. Rich ripe black fruit such as blue and blackberry on the nose while the palate is by no means heavy; vibrant plum skin, balanced oak and a touch of spice - delicious. The clean acidity will cut through the weight of heavier food styles and sauces. Tasted July 2012.
Graham's Late Bottled Vintage Port 2005
Portugal$16.95
The name of the wine also explains the process by which it is made. Bottling Port wine later allows the oak barrels to impart a softness to wine, making it approachable much sooner than traditional Vintage Port. LBV Port is perfect as an after dinner sipper with dessert.
Expect a viscous quality with aromas of figs and stewed black fruit. It’s rich but not ridiculously sweet with tastes of chocolate and fresh blueberries. I’ll bet you go back for another bottle. Tasted Nov 2011.
Blind River Sauvignon Blanc 2011, Marlborough, South Island
New Zealand$19.95
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.
Maycas Del Limari Reserva Especial Syrah 2008, Limarí Valley
Limari Valley, Chile$19.95
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
Burgundy, France$0.00
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.
Domaine Bernard Defaix Côte De Lechet Chablis 1er Cru 2008, Ac
Burgundy, France$31.95
Chablis is a satellite of the French appellation of Burgundy. The Chardonnay here has a pronounced minerality and freshness when compared to its buttery counterparts in the Côte de Beaune. This premier cru will benefit from 2 to 5 years in the cellar over which it will develop a fullness on the palate to balance out the crisp acidity right now. Aged Chablis is always worth the wait.
Montecillo Reserva 2006, Rioja
Spain$17.95
Balance is key here (the wood can overpower) and Montecillo has achieved perfect harmony in their 2006. Red fruit abounds: raspberry and cherry; a touch of smoke; the oak is present but in no way intrusive; perhaps just a hint of caramel - lovely. The tannins are like velvet with a juicy sweet core and a lingering finish. I’ve paid much more for wine of this quality – is one bottle enough? Tasted April 2012.