It's only wine but I like it

Caparzo Rosso Di Montalcino Doc 2015

second tasting Oct 2019: Similar impressions to first tasting but this seems to have developed a bit more depth. Quite good - upped to 88pts.

1st tasted: Fresh, light RdM here from Caparzo. Red fruit, a bit earthy, light tannin and then there is that refreshing acidity. Perfect match for tomato-based sauces or pizza. Drink over the next couple of years to capture that freshness, this ain't no Brunello. 87pts Tasted Oct 2018.

Chateau D'aigueville Côte Du Rhône Villages 2016, Ac

Re-tasted for the third time in Dec 2020, similar notes to below though structure seems a bit softer 2+years on.

Original note: Much like the '15, perhaps even a step up, this is a spot-on CdR Villages. Pepper and spice infused dark fruit, garrigue, fine tannin. Impressive complexity and density for less that $16. Really delicious and I'll be back for more. Tasted Oct 2018.

Tenuta Di Renieri Chianti Classico 2013, Docg

Despite ageing in Allier 225L barrels, the wood influence is very well integrated. This allows the sour cherry/red currant flavours to take center stage, as they should. Silky tannin and fine acidity keep the wine fresh. All in all, a fine Chianti Classico. No need to age further, this is a fine drink right now. Tasted Feb 2019.

Saint Roch Vieilles Vignes Syrah/Grenache 2015, Ap Côtes Du Roussillon

A bit lighter and less engaging than the 2014, this is still a fine representation of red wine from the Roussillon and good value too. Tasted May 2018.

Château La Brande 2015, Ac Côtes De Bordeaux Castillon

A nicely ripened Merlot-based right banker. Friendly and cuddly, with no hard edges. Not overly complex but nothing out of place in the flavour profile. This is just a delicious red - so easy to sip. I think that the original price was $18.95 (the displayed price here is the discounted one). Seems like it is at it peak now. Tasted Sep 2020.

Château Godard Bellevue 2010, Ac Côtes De Bordeaux Francs

As DL says...$15??? What a great deal on an aged petit chateau. Good complexity for the price, light on the oak, nicely ripened fruit which has morphed into the dried fruit a bit and some good structure. Really like the balance and the authentic non-Parkerized flavours. Still life yet in this too. Tasted July 2018.

Chateau Labarrade Malbec 2016, Cahors

The fact that a wine from Cahors is using "Malbec" on the label indicates that these producers are trying to capture some of the consumers of Argentine Malbec. To my taste, this still firmly leans to the model of Cahors from the past. Lean, savoury, and much less fruit than Argentine Malbec. A bit tannic and finishing with tart acidity. Not alot of joy here on its own, but works well with food. Tasted June 2019.

Rede Reserva 2011, Doc Douro

Good value in Douro red made with the Touriga amigos (Roriz, Nacional, Franca). Mostly black fruits, with a solid kick of spice and coconut from the oak. Hanging in well for a 2011. Tasted May 2019.

Clos Du Calvaire Châteauneuf Du Pape 2006

A soft, approachable Chateauneuf, with typical notes of blackberries, herbs and spice. I also picked up a slight raisiny note of the finish. A good wine to be sure, but I think that there are other Gigondas or Vacqueras than can be had for $12-15 less than are superior wines. Drink now.

Quinta De Ventozelo Touriga Nacional 2004

Dark berry fruit, with notes of vanilla and coconut from the American-oak ageing. Finishes with a pleasant note of tartness. A very well made wine though I must admit I wish that they had use French oak as the flavours from the American oak distract from the fruit, in my opinion. Drinking well now.