David Brodati, DipWSET
|
Followers (4)
|
|
|
Following (0)
|
Reviews (613)
|
Reviews
Freakshow Michael David 2013
California, Usa$29.95
I agree with David and Sara, the oak and manipulation mask any Cabernet typicity. One would expect this somewhat confected and mochafied style from lower priced Cali blends. There are some decent attributes, but not good value at $27. Dec. 2017.
2.5 Stars
(0)V
Umberto Fiore Barolo 2012, Docg
Piedmont, Italy$32.95
This Barolo is still a puppy and needs at least 3-4 more years, and will go many more of course. Decent Barolo typicity with pale ruby, not quite garnet hue, aromatic roses, red cherry fruit, tarry earth and high tannin and acidity. Not very balanced and it may integrate yet with some time. Alcohol heat is present. Length is very good. Better Barolos out there, but the price point is very reasonable for Barolo. Nov. 2016.
2.5 Stars
(0)V
Marchesi Di Barolo Zagara Moscato D'asti 2014, Docg
Italy$17.95
A fine Moscato D'Asti. Moscato Bianco aromatics are on display here. This sweet frizzante makes a good aperitif and would match nicely with softer cheese, fruit, salty snacks and spicy morsels (think hot wings). Nov. 2016.
2.5 Stars
(0)V
Domaine Salmon Grande Réserve Muscadet Sèvre & Maine Sur Lie 2015, Ac
Loire, France$16.95
Showing good typicity for Muscadet, but not a very balanced wine. There's some complexity with ripe (warm 2015 vintage) and somewhat tart fruit ranging from pear to citrus to peach, with distinct minerality. Lees add a yeasty note and contribute to a creamy texture. Elevated acidity, medium bodied, but alcohol provides too much warmth despite 12% declared. Very good length. Stick to the classic shellfish food pairing. March 2018.
2.5 Stars
(0)V
Tzafona Cellars Cold Climate Riesling Kp 2017, VQA Niagara Peninsula
Ontario, Canada$19.95
A nice kosher Niagara Riesling that works well with lighter fare at the Passover seder table. Fruity notes of apple, peach, citrus and melon, along with a touch of honey and minerality. The palate is off-dry with RS balanced by vibrant acidity. The length is very good. Pair with gefilte fish. April 2022.
2.5 Stars
(0)V
Kim Crawford Illuminate Rosé 2020
New Zealand$18.95
A basic rose, better with food than on its own. Off dry with red berry, some citrus and watermelon but with a candied undertone. Not very expressive or complex and with a rather short finish. Despite the low alcohol I get a hint of burn, so a balance issue for me. Drink up if you have any bottles left. March 2024.
2.5 Stars
Laurenz V. Friendly Grüner Veltliner 2020, D.A.C.
Kamptal, Austria$24.95
Good Gruner typicity with fairly intense flavours of citrus and signature white pepper. Some nice textural weight. Bright acidity makes this food friendly. But there's a balance issue with alcohol burn, and the length is modest. Enjoy over the short term and pair with lemon chicken or fish. February 2023.
2.5 Stars
(0)V
Obikwa Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Western Cape
South Africa$6.25
Very pale colour with a tropical nose along with hints of pears. Medium length on the tatse buds starting with sweet fruit then shifting to some bitterness. There's a bit too much heat on the finish. I found this wine really rocked with food, but just ok as a pre-dinner sipper. Paired exceedingly well with chicken breast in a tarragon mustard cream sauce. Excellent value, especially at my local LCBO wher it was being cleared out at under $8.00. Tasted Feb. 2013.
2.5 Stars
(0)G
Big House The Birdman Pinot Grigio 2011
California, Usa$12.95
Pear aroma and flavour dominates this non traditional pinot grigio. Sweet, fruity, almost off-dry in style. A decent sipper that should have fairly wide appeal and that would work well with a wide array of food choices,
2.5 Stars
(0)G
Burning Kiln Strip Room 2011, VQA Ontario
Ontario, Canada$24.95
This merlot/cab franc blend offers up cherry and jammy flavours. It is sweet, somewhat confected, but there's also a slight herbaceousness with dill coming through at the end. There is some heat reflecting the high alcohol content, even when chilled slightly. Good, but overpriced in my view (perhaps the price reflects the appassimento process).
May 2013.
2.5 Stars
(0)V