Francois Botha

Montes Classic Series Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Curico Valley

Grassy aromas with gooseberry and lemon. Crisp acidity and fruity but lacking on the back palate.

Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2009, Wo Coastal Region

Smoky, meaty, and peppery aromos. Some juicy fruit and a structure that will allow for aging 3-5 years.

Crasto Vinho Tinto 2008, Doc Douro

Trout Valley Riesling 2009, Nelson

Green apple, floral notes, apricots, and terpentine on the nose. Crisp acidity and plenty of fruit on this off-dry wine. Outstanding value - this is easily worth $15 or more.

Castano Hecula 2008, Yecla

This wine has plenty of fruit but it is backed by solid tannins and crisp acidity. Plums and blackberries are prominent and there is a hint of pepperiness as well.Ready to drink now but will keep and even improve over 2-3 years.

Bellingham Shiraz Viognier 2007

Plums, smokiness, and spice on the nose. Full-bodied wine with a noticeably high alcohol level and lots and lots of fruit. Juicy, but maybe a bit over the top.

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.

Carta Vieja Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon 2008, Loncomilla Valley

Pascual Toso Malbec 2009, Mendoza

Peter Lehmann Riesling 2008, Eden Valley, South Australia