Brad Mate

Señorío De P. Peciña Crianza 2011, Doca Rioja

Classic Rioja, but with a velvety smoothness. Spicy cherries, tobacco, smoke with hints of earthy barnyard. For a Crianza, this is incredibly impressive. Highly Highly recommended.

Dry Creek Heritage Zinfandel 2010, Sonoma County

I'm 90 on this ZIN! Although it's not the most sophisticated wine, it's well made and drinks nicely. I even picked up some lime peel or citrus notes to the otherwise sweetly fruited tannins. I'd say it's medium bodied and pretty lean by California standards.

Planets De Prior Pons 2008, Doq Priorat

The nose is impressive , providing fascinating whiffs of brown sugar, lavender, blueberry pie and cola. It's strong, structured & finishes with hits of chocolate/ truffle and stony minerality.

Tawse Pinot Gris Redstone Vineyard 2011, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula

As David indicates in his notes, rich but fresh. I thought the finish was a tad short and it's not as round or lush as I like Pinot Gris to be, however nicely done all the same.

Mont Tauch Le Tauch Fitou 2010

I really enjoyed the suave texture of this Syrah/Carignan/Grenache blend. Balance and structure hold up throughout. The flavours need more time to develop, as it's little shy on fruit at the moment. But superb quality for the price.

Château De Fonbel 2009, Ac Saint Emilion

On the nose, what's not to like. It bursts with fruity berries, earth, herbs, leather and cedar with hints of vanilla. The palate however is light weight and flavours, although authentic, are muted on the palate (lots of coco & cherry in my opinion). It's a structured wine with ultra fine tannins (you'll know when you sip it). It finishes nice and dry but a bit short. A very good wine.

Vineland Estates Elevation St. Urban Riesling 2011, VQA Niagara Escarpment, Niagara Peninsula

A gorgeous perfumed nose of orange blossom, peaches, lemon/lime, white flowers & white musk. It's off dry adding a nice peachy-sweetness to the mix, but ample acid to balance this delicious beauty. It’s a luxurious wine that really charms & relaxes you.

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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.

Penley Estate Hyland Shiraz 2012, Coonawarra

Perfect example of an Aussie Shiraz that displays ripe fruit with finesse and balance.

Akarua Central Otago Pinot Noir 2011

BIG, RICH & ROUND! ...is the best way to sum up this Pinot. Fans of Russian River Valley Pinots will appreciate this offering. The nose is deep and seductive with sweet brown sugar, sweet cherry tobacco & warm spices. The palate is full, round and plush - it has a real creaminess. The finish is long and smooth. Would I purchase it again? You bet!