Alfred Hayes

Concha Y Toro Marques De Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Maipo Valley

When the Marques line was released the price was ~$16-$17, and was rock solid in 2005. I found the 2006 to be a little more closed off then in previous years. as the Critic suggests a couple of years to allow it to soften up will help somewhat. Would have rated higher if price was still $17.

Errazuriz Max Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, Aconcagua Valley

Agree with the Critic on this one. Very young and requires considerable decanting. Errazuriz tends to be a touch on the spicy side for my palate, which prefers fruit to spice. A solid wine, at a solid price.

Peter Lehmann Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

If you can find it, the 2004 is absolutely stunning after 2-3 hour decant. Ripe berries, solid mid and finished with a subtle hint of spice.

Peter Lehmann Shiraz 2005, Barossa Valley, South Australia

Haven't had it yet... Will rate as soon as it is opened.

Warre’s Otima 10 Year Old Port, Douro Valley (500ml)

I've have a fair share of LBV, 10 and 20 yr. old ports and this one holds its own in the QPR shakedown.

For someone who wants to get into port without getting 'serious' this is a very nice bottle and will not let you down.

For a change of pace, try it extremely chilled.

Cono Sur Viognier 2007, Colchagua Valley

The wine opens up with a refreshing clarity and a light-buttery texture. While there isn’t much in the mid palate, the finish is sharp (not razor-sharp) with a citrus-meets-mango sweetness.

Where this wine earns its final stripe is the price, at $9.95 it practically sells itself.

Enjoy!

Concha Y Toro Casillero Del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon (Historic Vintage) 2007, Central Valley

Another solid effort from an outstanding vintage. The essense of a cab is present, but the finish is a touch short. If you are new to Chile or Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a very affordable place to start.

Viña Tarapacá Gran Reserva Carmenère 2007, Maipo Valley

A solid, well-produced wine. More spicy than fruity which can appeal to some, but not myself.

Not to take away from the wine which is excellent, but it just doesn't align with my tastes.

Inniskillin Riesling Reserve 2007, Niagara Peninsula

Bright, semi-crisp apples on the nose and a slightly acidic finish are all in good proportion. The mid-palate has a buttery-citrus texture that eases the transition to the finish.

Solid wine from a solid vintage.

Enjoy!

Concha Y Toro Casillero Del Diablo Carmenere 2007, Rapel Valley

The winery is hailing 2007 as an historic one, and this bottle lives up the expectation. Not quite as fruity as in previous releases (non-vintage). A solid wine to be had now with some decanting, or waiting until your next Thanksgiving. The price bumped it up a rating level in my books.

Enjoy!