Brad Mate

Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Knights Valley, Sonoma County

Nice rich Cab/Sauv nose, berries, wood-smoke, cassis, vanilla. I tasted a hint of mint which was nice. the tannins and structure are evident. It is balanced and complex not sweet or jammy. Really nice.

Michael David Chardonnay 2013, Lodi

Oak, banana cream pie, light caramel & coconut. This is a delicious wine and very easy to drink. It's balanced enough to please wine snobs....like me.

Villa Mora Montefalco Sagrantino 2006, Docg, Unfiltered

This wine passes the 90 point test easily with it's structure, tannin/grape quality
and razor sharp dry finish. But it's way too young to be enjoyable now. The wine is too powerful with tannic grip and as a result the flavours are muted. As it loosens up, it will become a more lush and enjoyable wine. Don't drink now, wait another 3-5 years.

Taurino Riserva Salice Salentino 2009

Nose offers spicy cherry, earthy barnyard (brett), tobacco leaf, wet mustiness, cedar cigar box but with sweet vanilla herbal notes. Light bodied but structured, with real dusty tannins, the palate is gamey and leaves a sour finish. Pretty cool wine.

Pirramimma Petit Verdot 2006, Mclaren Vale

amazing stuff. really if you like big fruit bombs, but with structure, all of Pirramimma's wines are amazing.

Casas Del Bosque Gran Reserva Syrah 2012, Casablanca Valley

Rich, smooth & packed with flavour! Reminds me of Syrah from Washington. Yes, I'd buy it again!

Sonoma Cutrer Russian River Ranches Chardonnay 2011, Sonoma Coast

A classic in my book. Always offers balance and grace with a creamy texture. It's used to be only available at restaurants...great value on sale for 24 bucks.

Villa Maria Private Bin Pinot Noir 2009, Marlborough

Classic NZ Pinot flavours, a tad light bodied.

Norman Hardie County Pinot Noir 2009, VQA Prince Edward County, Unfiltered

Great Pinot nose that offers cherries, vanilla oak with hints of earth. Light bodied and elegant but with noticeable fine tannins. Nice tension on the palate between sweet cherries and sour cranberries. Finishes dry and tart with nice mouth watering acidity.

watch video review at niagarawinevideos.com

Château De Nages J T Costières De Nîmes 2012, Ac

This is a fairly plush, medium weight Rhone blend. Cherries, hot rock and smoky ash on the nose. The palate adds licorice, violets and coco powder. Dusty tannins add grip to the finish. Good value for $20. BIG TIP - decant for an hour - this get much richer, rounder and smoother.