cardamom

Quinta Da Rede Grande Reserva Branco 2014, Doc Douro

Wow! I have been holding on to this wine waiting for a special occasion to open but gave up once I decided it might be getting over the hill (2022). first impression：this is an amontillado sherry! Second impression: lots of wood but held in check by fresh acidity. Third impression: I am drinking a $40 Canadian chardonnay. Tremendous value.

Henry Of Pelham Speck Family Reserve Riesling 2016, VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Escarpment

I'll defer to my partner on this one: "It's delicious. You can just drink it like water." One of the early casualties in my wine cellar from this extended coronavirus lock-down, alas.

Pieropan Soave Classico 2016, Doc

I'll go with the consensus on this one. Very enjoyable. Took me a while to open this bottle, but lineups at the LCBO mean that I am working my way through the back-log.

Dr. Siemens Herrenberg Riesling Spätlese Feinherb 2009, Prädikatswein

Very dense and full bodied,with perfectly balanced sweetness and acidity. Reminds me of a block of granite, oddly.

Henry Of Pelham Baco Noir Old Vines 2019

I am having a tough time with this one. With 14 g/L sugar content, it comes across as a dessert wine. I like my reds very dry. But my partner likes it, so we'll call it a draw and give it 87.

OK. I grew to appreciate this wine on further acquaintance. Not my usual style but it works and I'd buy again,

Maker's Mark Kentucky Bourbon

I am pleased to see other reviewers here dumping on Maker's Mark. I have always found it harsh and unpleasant, yet it seems to be generally well regarded. Not for me.

Marqués De Murrieta Finca Ygay Reserva 2008, Doca Rioja

Such balance and poise!

Anselmann Edesheimer Ordensgut Weissburgunder Kabinett Trocken 2012, Pradikätswein

Quite tart. Sorry, just not seeing why David is so keen on this one. Finishes well.

Vadio Tinto 2012, Doc Barraida

Finally got around to drinking this. On initial approach comes off as surprisingly light and very smooth. However, the relentless tannins and pronounced acidity eventually dominate. Nor much fruit. There is something intriguing about the baga grape, but ultimately I think it works better in a blend.

Château Des Charmes St. David's Bench Vineyard Gamay Noir Droit 2015, VQA St. David's Bench

Interestingly, I enjoyed this wine more on day two. Very juicy and delicious. Nice finish, a bit dusty, and light to medium weight.