Francois Botha

Montes Limited Selection Cabernet Sauvignon/Carmenère 2011, Colchagua Valley

Mint, blackberry, and herbs on the nose. It has lots of fruit with softening tannins. Will improve over the next 2 years.

Cono Sur Bicicleta Pinot Noir 2012

Black cherry, strawberry, prunes, earthiness, and spices on the nose. It is juicy, and medium-bodied with some green tannins, but it all fits together well.

Château St. Roch Syrah/Grenache Rosé 2011, Ac Côtes De Roussillon

Strawberry, pepper, watermelon, and cranberry on the nose. It is very fruit and has a crisp acidity which makes it perfect for the summer.

Deen De Bortoli Vat 8 Shiraz 2008, Southeastern Australia

Blackberry, black cherry and spices on the nose. The wine has plenty of ripe fruit and ripe tannins, is medium-bodied, and very well balanced.

Errazuriz Max Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Aconcagua Valley

Grassy, with gooseberry and lime on the nose. It has crisp acidity with lots of fruit. Serve well chilled.

Montgras Quatro 2011, Colchagua Valley

Lots of dark fruit, nuts, coffee, and chocolate on the nose. It has lots of ripe fruit and is medium-bodied. The wine will improve over the next two years.

Cono Sur Vision Single Vineyard Riesling 2010, Quiltramán, Bío Bío Valley

Apple, pear, and hints of petrol on the nose. Some crisp acidity on the palate but slight inbalance between the sweetness and acidity. Keep for 2-3 years.

Palacios Remondo La Vendimia 2011, Doca Rioja

Prunes, blackberries, and herbs on the nose. It has lots of ripe fruit (very juicy), softening tannin, and is light-to-medium bodied. Feels a bit overblown in the end though - not sure if it will keep together structurally in the long-term. Drink now.

Pascual Toso Malbec 2009, Mendoza

Yalumba Y Series Shiraz Viognier 2010, South Australia

Black cherry, pepper, chocolate, and cedar on the nose. The wine is medium-to-full bodied with lots of fruit and soft tannins. Excellent value and a well-balanced wine.