Purple Moose

Kwv Cathedral Cellar Triptych 2008, Wo Western Cape

Gaia Thalassitis Assyrtiko 2013, Pdo Santorini, Aegean Islands

This is undoubtedly an unusual, interesting wine. However, I found it somewhat acrid on the palate and unpleasantly flinty on the nose (although it may be that the wine is simply too young).

Rustenberg R.M. Nicholson 2010, Wo Stellenbosch

Fairly primary black fruit notes on the nose, with some herbal characteristics. The palate is dense, but with some borderline unpleasant green, under-ripe notes and a notable rusticity. I agree with Lawrason that the flavours are a bit muddied.

Gérard Bertrand Côte Des Roses Rosé 2013, Ap Languedoc

This stuff sold out fast! I tried at three other locations before snatching up the final three bottles at Summerhill. I hope that you found some too, because it's fantastic. Citrus and red fruit dominate on the nose (with impressive intensity). Nicely creamy in terms of texture, with red fruit and lactic notes. Excellent length.

Château De Lafaurie Monbadon 2010, Ac Côtes De Castillon

Delightful french oak influence on the nose, with prevalent notes of vanilla, smoke and cinnamon. There is a strong fruit presence on the palate (both black and red), which is supported by smooth, fleshy tannins. In this regard, I disagree with David Lawrason -- there is a great structure. Fantastic value.

Delaforce Touriga Nacional 2011

Wine Spectator gave this wine a 93. This is somewhat excessive in my view, but not far off. This Douro is somewhat closed on the nose. I'm looking for it to open up in the next two to three years. The palate, however, is stellar, showing impressive depth and complexity, particularly at this price point. There is a subtle salinity and stony minerality that nicely complements the plush (but not jammy) fruit core. Excellent length.

Pessoa Da Vinha Reserva Douro 2010

Impressive complexity with a graphite note reminiscent of high quality cabernet. This is very hard to beat for the money.

Cono Sur Syrah Reserva 2010, Colchagua Valley

Tasted the 2011.

It is a little bit one-note (the note being black currant or blackberry), and is somewhat syrupy. That said, it's tasty and definitely represents a good value.

Valdemar Inspiración Valdemar 2010, Doca Rioja

This is a new world-ish, easy drinking Rioja.

Campo Viejo Reserva 2007, Rioja

Elegant and complex. Strong spice and tobacco notes.