Brad Mate

Fattoria Carpineta Fontalpino Do Ut Des 2012, Igt Toscana

Nice tight super fine tannins to support the suave fruit and earthy tones. It has a touch of old school Rioja funk to it, but stays neat and tidy on the finish. Medium bodied and Firm. This is a serious wine by all measures. Score = BUY BUY BUY!!!

Prunotto Barolo 2012, Barolo

When people ask me what makes a great wine, I always say balance. I think this wine sums that up. Sure it delicate and light, but it's also so balanced and graceful that you actually forget there's alcohol in it. Think Pinot Noir but with super fine grippy tannins. I know there's a lot of $20 wines out there but believe me, spend the extra $20 on this and you will understand the beauty of Barolo.

Santa Rita Medalla Real Reserva Especial Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Maipo Valley

Cave Spring Indian Summer Riesling 2007, Select Late Harvest, VQA Niagara Peninsula

I'll have to agree with the flock...delicious and structured with nice acidity to balance the lush semisweet riesling fruitiness. Lots to love about this wine, especially great for nursing a cold!

Hollick Coonawarra Red 2005, Coonawarra, South Australia

lazer focused.

Stratus Stratus Cabernet Franc 2007, VQA Niagara Peninsula

A re-release of this wine is available for purchase at the winery at a premium of $42…ahhh yes a little on the expensive side… But considering the plush quality of this gracefully aged wine, I think it’s worth it. It’s not an everyday wine. It’s a special treat to be enjoyed over a celebration. Actually, opening this beauty is a bit of a celebration in itself. I know Stratus’ blends are wonderfully composed, but I’m a sucker for single varietal Niagara Cabernet Franc, especially when it of this quality. This wine has just started to peak and I imaging will continue to drink well for another 3-5 years. Secondary savory notes have blossomed beyond the fruit - Sweet tobacco, autumn leaves, herbs, dried rose petals, cherry concentrate, vanilla oak and so much more. Suave and graceful on the palate. Like I said, a real treat!

Jacob's Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2009, Coonawarra, South Australia

nice wine but a little light and boring - but well made.

Ross Shiraz 2006, Barossa Valley, South Australia

I'd write a review, but Paul Forget already did and it's bang on. I scored this wine a little higher based on the delicious factor. I also liked that it is a full bodied wine, but it's not heavy... Great wine.

Château Ségur De Cabanac 2004, Ac St Estèphe, Cru Bourgeios

After almost 10 years of aging and hour of decanting this wine is loaded with cigar and tobacco that mingle with black liquorice, cassis and tar. It's not a big show stopper, it's mid weight but with graceful solid refined polished tannins. There's a hint of green bell pepper and earthiness that I adore. I don't think too many wine lovers would object to this juice at this price point.

Pirramimma Petit Verdot 2008, Mclaren Vale

nice smoky wet musty wood, blueberry nose. palate is full bodied- sweet fruit and oak, great srtucture. new world charm! nice wine.