Michael Loken

Peller Estates Private Reserve Cabernet Franc 2015, VQA Niagara On The Lake

Really impressed by this wine received in the first Wine Exchange shipment. Solid Cab Franc, with real stylistic elements from Bordeaux, including a hint of gravel...in the good way...

Rustenberg Merlot 2010, Wo Stellenbosch

I thought this was an excellent wine. Presenting the kind of value you look for when buying a South African wine, this was big and complex. This tasted like a bordeaux with really nice tobacco, leather, sage and cedar notes. The wine opened up over time and presented a very long finish.

Tenuta Sette Ponti Crognolo 2011, Igt Toscana

Full of black currants and plums, the wine presents a full nose, with moderate intensity and length. Drank well on its own.

Le Vieux Pin Syrah Cuvée Violette 2015, BC VQA Okanagan Valley

Château Clos De Sarpe 1995, Ac Saint émilion Grand Cru

A wine nearing the end of its time, but an excellent way to show what age does to a bottle. The flavours have evolved beyond pure fruit to evoke earth, smoke, leather and mushrooms. There is a real sense of umami here. The colour of the wine was also a beautiful garnet with amber on the edges. Worth the price to drink 22+ year old wine at Christmas.

Cederberg Shiraz 2015, Wo Cederberg

Hugely expressive with deep, dark cassis, earth and violets. For the price, it is simply sensational.

Grand Vin De Glenelly Red 2010, Wo Stellenbosch

Quinta Da Rede Grande Reserva Branco 2014, Doc Douro

Poliziano Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2011

Frescobaldi Tenuta Di Castiglioni 2016, Igt Toscana