cardamom

Sanpaolo Fiano Di Avellino 2017, Docg

Full-bodied, fleshy, with a slightly bitter finish. Reminds me of a verdejo, but slightly fatter and rounder. Love this wine.

Alvear Palacio Quemado La Zarcita 2016, Single Estate Vineyard, Vino De La Tierra De Extremadura

They make wine in the extremadura? Who knew. Very smooth and dense, but also quite acidic and almost tart. High-toned. Wouldn't have a clue where this came from in a blind tasting competition. The acidity gives it a lightness that makes you think of Rioja, but it is combined with the density of something Portuguese. One of the more interesting wines I have tasted in a while.

Henry Of Pelham Estate Riesling 2018, Certified Sustainable, VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Escarpment

Another really solid effort. Perfect acid / sugar balance, against a perfumed background. Good value.

Covela Edição Nacional Avesso 2015, Vinho Verde

Dry and clean, in a mid-weight vinho verde.

La Tremenda Monastrell 2017, Do Alicante

Fleshy, but with a sharp spine of acidity that keeps things in check. Smooth. High alcohol (14.5) not obnoxiously apparent.

Anselmann Edesheimer Ordensgut Weissburgunder Kabinett Trocken 2012, Pradikätswein

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

Marqués De Murrieta Finca Ygay Reserva 2008, Doca Rioja

Such balance and poise!

Quinta Da Rede Reserva 2013, Doc Douro

Everything I want in a wine from the Douro. Pretty hefty but has good acidity and doesn't hit you over the head. Hides the granite in a soft velvet glove.

Day 2: noticing a bit more wood and spice in the background. Nice! Good match with the planned roast beef.

Domaine De Fabrègues Le Mas 2016, Ap Pézenas

This didn’t really work for me. Hard, angular, and bruising. Definitely needs decanting. It comes across as almost bitter, but the high alcohol gives an initial impression of sweetness. Wouldn’t buy again.

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.