Michael Loken

Grand Vin De Glenelly Red 2010, Wo Stellenbosch

Cederberg Shiraz 2015, Wo Cederberg

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

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.

The Chocolate Block 2015, Wo Swartland

Duemani Cabernet Franc 2007

This wine was sampled along with other Tuscan Cabernet Francs at a blind tasting and just came up a bit short. Although still very good, the taste had certain menthol notes that did not suit my preferences. The aroma was pleasing with raspberry and macerated fruit notes.

Tasted blind at a Beefsteak & Burgundy Club event, April 2015.

Chateau Du Moulin Noir 2011, Montagne Saint Emilion

Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2014, Swartland

D'angelo Aglianico Del Vulture 2010, Doc Basilicata

Dry and dusty with flavours of cedar, tobacco and mineral earth, this is a really interesting wine. The dry finish was not overpowering for people around my dinner table, but it could be unappealing if you don't like dry reds. A great bottle for fans of rustic, Italian wines.

Tenuta Sette Ponti Crognolo 2012, Igt Toscana

Santa Carolina Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2014, Colchagua Valley

A nice, simple red. The aromas are balanced with notes of oak, blackberries, cherries and leather. The taste is not as deep as the nose - but this pairs well with food. I just think that there are better wines available at the same price (particularly primitivos, if you want a fruit forward wine)