Michael Loken

Woodbridge By Robert Mondavi White Zinfandel 2011

The wine is overly sweet with a slightly syrupy, jammy feel to it. The taste had no real complexity, and was easily forgotten. This wine is simply made for different tastes than mine.

Cottage Block Sauvignon Blanc Riesling 2012, Niagara Peninsula

Completely unsurprising, but entirely drinkable. The wine was fresh and light, but had no strong notes dominating the flavour.

Lander Jenkins Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

The wine simply had a thin profile. There was no significant depth to the aroma or flavour and did not improve noticeably in the glass over the tasting.

Tasted blind at a Beefsteak & Burgundy club event, Feb 2015.

Angels Gate Cabernet Franc 2006, Niagara Peninsula

I recently received a bottle of the 2003 vintage of this wine, and was immediately worried that it was far past its prime. The cork pulled very clean, and the wine was surprisingly good. The strong green pepper flavours associated with young cab franc wines were not present, and what was left was pleasing, with notes of mild red fruits and a soft herbaceous quality. It was not sensational, but was definitely not a disappointment. Tasted Nov. 2015.

Tommasi Poggio Al Tufo Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Igt Toscana

A lovely ruby colour in the glass, the nose is full of stewed fruits, cherry and a hint of vanilla. In the mouth it is soft and smooth with good length.

7 Deadly Zins Old Vine Zinfandel 2013, Lodi