Michael Loken

Masciarelli Villa Gemma 2004, Doc Montepulciano D’abruzzo

Extremely dark in colour with some sediment in the glass. Very rich in taste with notes of chocolate, black currents and wood. The finish was long and displayed the complexity of the wine.

Tasted blind at a Beefsteak and Burgundy club event, Jan. 2015.

Privato Tesoro Pinot Noir Woodward Collection 2014, Okanagan Valley

A nice wine for a summer evening. Well put together, with strong red fruit flavours. Unfortunately, it lacks the depth to make it memorable.

The Good Wine Cabernet Franc 2012, VQA Lincoln Lakeshore

This wine was just a bit too much on the green, herbaceous side for my tastes. The flavour profile showed green bell peppers mixed in with oak. The flavour profile could change with time, but I'm not certain.

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

Burmester 10-year-old Tawny Port

The port has a lovely brown tawny colour, and the taste is lovely at the start. However, the aftertaste did not suit me. Not my favourite for a 10 year old port.

Château La Nerthe Châteauneuf-du-pape 2004, Ac

A superbly mature wine with class and elegance. I think it has a couple of years left in it if you want to keep it in the cellar, but it is drinking superbly right now.

Montes Alpha M La Finca Estate 2010, Apalta Valley

Although this wine does show a great flavour profile, and is a fine example of a Chilean red - it just does not justify the price for me.

Clos St Antonin Côtes Du Rhône 2016

Barón De Ley Gran Reserva 2011, Doca Rioja

Typical Spanish reserve wine; dark in colour and slightly dusty in flavour. Nicely balanced with smooth finish

Tenuta Valdipiatta "vigna D'Alfiero" Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2010, Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano

This wine was very balanced and smooth on the tongue. Lovely wood and chocolate notes mixed with flavours of plums and blackberries to make this quite enjoyable.

Tasted blind at a Beefsteak and Burgundy club event, Jan. 2015.

De Bortoli Noble One Botrytis Semillon 2008, New South Wales (375ml)

The aroma has strong notes of honey, apricot and stone fruits. The wine is extremely balanced and sweet. For those who like sweet wines, this is a fine example.