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Babich Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2011

Being a 2011, this is understandably a very green wine and exhibits minimal fruit notes. It is instead dominated by mineral, lime stone, grass clippings and acidity.

Château La Brie Prestige 2009, Ac Bergerac

This wine is a testament to the 2009 Bordeaux vintage. I have to agree with everyone here, but I give it a little more credit. Not just for the price. While it is an exceptional value, it presents well-balanced fruit, supple tannins and a soft finish. Medium to full body, with notes of cassis, black berry, menthol, espresso and pencil shavings. Although I am not sure it will age much longer than two years. Value buy 4/5.

As always, the vintage panel recommends a pairing with lamb...big surprise!

Tasted March/2012

Mastrojanni Brunello Di Montalcino 2006

Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel 2009, Sonoma County

Rich, red / brownish brick colour. Delicious harmony of dried fruit and dried flowers with nice hints of herbs and wood. The tannins and fine and soft with nice length and body.

Great value!

Tasted June 2012.

Raymond Classic Chardonnay 2010, North Coast, California

A rich, creamy Chardonnay with lots of tropical fruit: banana, pineapple, and caramel. Plenty of length and controlled acidity.

Tasted April 2013.

Zenato Rosso 2009, Igt Veneto

An affordable, enjoyable wine that is true to the region. Zenato doesn't mail this one in, showing the fine wine-making expertise that they bring to their more expensive products.

A solid, well focused wine in a price category where we expect more disjointed wines.

A good everyday value.

Tasted May 2014.

Santa Carolina Reserva De Familia Carmenère 2010, Rapel Valley

Viña Casablanca El Bosque Carmenère 2010, Winemaker's Choice, Rapel Valley

A restrained, easy-drinking offering of Carmenere. A great blend of earthiness, stewed black fruit and spice. Savoury with mild dark chocolate and tannins and acids in check that lead to a smooth finish. I appreciated that there wasn't too much in the way of oak or espresso/coffee that can dominate, or ruin, Carmenere.

Drink now.

Tasted December 2013.

Cono Sur Bicicleta Viognier 2013

Plenty of exotic tropical fruit and perfumey with mild acids. The finish is smooth and creamy.

Can't believe the price.

Tasted Nov. 2013.

Tessellae Carignan Vieilles Vignes 2011, Igp Côtes Catalanes

A rather polished offering for the price that makes it a real crowd pleaser. However, it's still evocative of southern France. Full to medium-bodied with lots of dark fruit, spice, and earth-driven notes. The long, clean finish makes this value buy stand out for me.

Tasted Sept. 2013.