tlainc

Casa De Illana Tresdecinco 2004, Do Ribera Del Júcar

La Querciola Chicchivello Langhe Rosso 2008, Doc

This blend of Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo is a good example of the Piedmontese style, with aromas of hibiscus, leather, pomegranate, tar and candied strawberry. Dry, with very good aroma replays, plus some soft acids and gentle tannins for balance. Serve it very slightly chilled to bring the finer aromas out. Enjoy with lamb burgers, gourmet beef burgers, or steaks. (VINTAGES panel, Aug. 2011)....85

Barba Colle Morino Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2008, Doc

nice nose and promises much but poor delivery, poor complexity and little after taste

Medium-deep ruby colour with powerful and compelling aromas of crushed berry fruit, black plum, vanilla, new leather and floral. Dry with fresh acidity first, then pretty (yet forceful) fruit tones and a hint of tannin. It has a lot of character and structure for a Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. This very well-built wine is medium-full bodied and has a substantial finish. Will reward 2-3 years in a cellar, or try it with rare steaks featuring a mildly spicy marinade or rub. (VINTAGES panel, June 2010) 84

Azul Portugal Vinho Tinto 2007, Doc Palmela

Castelão, Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon. A soft herbal nose, with wonderful spicy plummy fruit, an intense rounded palate, and excellent length. (Judges panel, International Wine Challenge, 2009) 86

Artazuri Garnacha 2009, Navarra And Basque Country

Coppi Peucetico Primitivo 2006, Doc Gioia Del Colle

nose Ok but muddy color and harsh tasting -- Ok in a pinch!

Fattoria Dei Barbi Morellino Di Scansano 2006

This Morellino di Scansano shows a brilliant ruby red color and nuances of ruby red, moderate transparency. The nose denotes intense, clean, pleasing and refined aromas which start with hints of cherry, plum and blackberry followed by aromas of violet, blueberry, vanilla, cinnamon and menthol. The mouth has good correspondence to the nose, a tannic attack and however balanced by alcohol, good body, intense flavors, pleasing crispness. The finish is persistent with flavors of cherry, plum and blackberry. 84

Casa De La Ermita Roble 2008, Do Jumilla

OK

Domaine Croze Granier Cuvée Réserve Côtes Du Rhône 2009, Ac

This blend of Grenache and Syrah features aromas of wet earth, blackberry, mocha and vanilla. Dry, intense with very good across-the-board aroma replays. This is a fine CdR for current consumption with blackened lamb chops or gourmet sage-and-rosemary sausage. Velvety tannins and bright acids bring balance, suggesting it will reward a couple of years in a cellar. (VINTAGES panel, March 2011) -- 81