Tyler Philp

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.

Muga Reserva 2006, Doc Rioja

Of the five wines tasted at our Rioja session, this label was the most robust of the lot. Good combination of red and black fruit here but what really caught my attention was the pronounced black pepper notes. It will benefit from time in the cellar or should decanted well before serving with a hearty meal. Quite nice. (northof9finewine, Oct 2010)

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)

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.

Graham's Late Bottled Vintage Port 2005

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.

K W V Cathedral Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Western Cape

So many people look past the South African section of the wine shop for something more familiar, but this label is a good reason to make an unscheduled stop. A medium bodied Cab to pair with a hearty meal this weekend. The weight of the food will soften the tannins in the wine. Expect a mix of dark cherry and blackberry fruit with an earthy complexity and a touch of mint on the finish. Tasted Jan 2012.

Decant this wine an hour before serving.

Carla Chiaro Reserve Malbec 2009, Mendoza

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.

Amarone Classico Masi Costasera 2007

Here is a full bodied Italian style of wine that is the product of partially dried grapes - a process known as appassimento. Masi's Costasera is consistently good year after year and the '07 vintage is no exception. The nose is rather closed at this point (Oct 2011) but with an hour in the decanter, aromas of stewed fruit, chocolate, and a subtle earth/fungal notes come to life. To taste is much the same with more prunes, figs, cherry and cinnamon spice. Though the wine is quite dry, there is also a perceived sweetness; very lush and best served alongside an equally rich meal. Decant before serving or cellar and serve after 2014

Rodney Strong Alexander's Crown Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County

One of the better Cali Cabs in this price range. Rich, jammy, and quite smooth after some breathing time. A good mix of black fruit and earth; the oak influence is obvious but certainly not overpowering. Decant 1hr before serving. (northof9finewine, Feb 2011)