Brad Mate

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.

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.

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.

Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir 2013, Marlborough, South Island

By Marlborough standards, this is very lean. It reminds me of Niagara actually. There's lots of Pinot character - cherry, vanilla, hints of cola, smoke and wet earth. It's crisp and dry. A lovely little Pinot at a fair price.

Castellani Filicheto Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2009, Docg

Creekside Backyard Block Sauvignon Blanc 2012

Zesty & grassy with citrus fruit flavous. Great acidity gives this wine a crisp structure & finish. NZ comes to mind.

Fabre Montmayou Reserva Malbec 2011, Mendoza

I'm a fan. Great value, but you have to except that Malbec is not a Cabernet. Lol

Maison Roche De Bellene Vieilles Vignes Gevrey Chambertin 2011, Ac

Nose reveals rose petals and sour fruit. The palate is structured and lean. Lot's of plum skin and cranberry. Flavours are minimal.

Montirius Garrigues Vacqueyras 2009, Ac

A deep dark ruby colour with a nice sophisticated nose of black and red licorice and ground black pepper. The palate is a creamy medium weight with nice blackberry/ blueberry, again licorice and pepper flavours. Also perhaps black olive? Super dry and structured with a stunning finish. Beautiful comes to mind. Decant for about 30 minutes and enjoy.

Domaine Belle Les Pierrelles Crozes Hermitage 2007, Ac

Had a couple bottles in my cellar so I thought I'd try one...still not drinking the greatest, this sucker needs oceans of time to settle down. Really harsh and tannic still. The wine is extremely well made but currently lacks finesse. Flavours are still really muted. Glad i have another bottle for the decade wait.