Name: Casa Silva
Country: Colchagua Valley, Chile
Grape(s): Semillon & Gewurztraminer
Vintage: (Late Harvest) 2007
Colour: clear, medium intensity, golden colour
Smell: This was a clean, light and fruity flavour. The first aromas were like a fruit cocktail aroma with a strong pineapple scent. A deeper insight into this smell we picked up vanilla and cream. Great scent overall and quite appealling that my mouth was beginning to water.
Taste: This was a sweet, low acidic light bodied flavour. Its flavour spoke volumes of honey, caramel, candy even a light port interpretation. If you have heard of a drink called Irn Bru (an export from Scotland) it really tasted like that. The length of this wine was short.
Conclusion: An acceptable wine. It had been a long time since I had drunk a dessert wine and so it was a pleasant reintroduction. I was very surprised by the differences between the scents and the flavours. I was expecting a fruiter/floral base and was shocked to taste more sweeter flavours. We opened this bottle with the intention of enjoying it while we sat and enjoyed the evening however, it clearly was too sweet to be a bottle we were about to finish, so we stop drinking it. If we had been enjoying a dessert, maybe a chocolate moose, fruit cake or a nice creme brullee this would have been a very complimentry drink.
WINEDEX: 6 out of 10.
Final comments: Sweet wines are very much a personal preference. This was the first sweet wine I had from Chile and I it could definately stand on its own. Again Chile does a great job at presenting a great wine. Chile is definately a great wine producer and I look forward to trying a lot more.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Had a Baby....
The reason for me not posting for a while is that I had my daughter, Jessica. Thus wine was off the menu for a while, but now I can now get back to one of my great pleasures when she goes down at night.
Christmas is coming and I am looking forward to the staples that we have but also hoping to try out some new ones.
So, lets get drinking and writing....cos 'its all about the wine'
Merry Christmas folks.....let me know what you are drinking this christmas and if you have comments to share please do.
x
Christmas is coming and I am looking forward to the staples that we have but also hoping to try out some new ones.
So, lets get drinking and writing....cos 'its all about the wine'
Merry Christmas folks.....let me know what you are drinking this christmas and if you have comments to share please do.
x
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
2007 Laurenz und Sophie, Niederosterrich, Austria, Singin Gruner Veltliner
Name: Laurenz und Sophie
Country: Niederosterrich, Austria
Grape(s): Gruner Veltliner
Vintage: 2007
Colour: a light bright lemon colour. Quite bubbly too??
Smell: This had a very busy aroma. There were lots of levels and notes that made our initial introduction into this Austrian wine quite exciting. We had earthy, damp notes. There was smokiness as well along with a fruity citrus hint, particularly gooseberries. With all these aromas, my flavour expectations were a bit confused.
Taste: A dry, low acidity and light body. This was a very fruity flavour. We could taste gooseberries, green apples and grapefruits. Disappointingly this had a very short length. It also had this fizzy flavour aswell….weird!!
Conclusion: It was a good wine.
WINDEX: 7 out of 10.
Final Comments: Again this was a first for me. I had never drunk wine from Austria and so as a first impression it was really good. It tasted from very springing and fresh and was ready to show itself off. This was would be great either as stand alone sipping wine or even as part of a meal.
Country: Niederosterrich, Austria
Grape(s): Gruner Veltliner
Vintage: 2007
Colour: a light bright lemon colour. Quite bubbly too??
Smell: This had a very busy aroma. There were lots of levels and notes that made our initial introduction into this Austrian wine quite exciting. We had earthy, damp notes. There was smokiness as well along with a fruity citrus hint, particularly gooseberries. With all these aromas, my flavour expectations were a bit confused.
Taste: A dry, low acidity and light body. This was a very fruity flavour. We could taste gooseberries, green apples and grapefruits. Disappointingly this had a very short length. It also had this fizzy flavour aswell….weird!!
Conclusion: It was a good wine.
WINDEX: 7 out of 10.
Final Comments: Again this was a first for me. I had never drunk wine from Austria and so as a first impression it was really good. It tasted from very springing and fresh and was ready to show itself off. This was would be great either as stand alone sipping wine or even as part of a meal.
Morrocco, Merlot 2006
Name: Havana,
Country: Morocco, Beni M'Tir appellation
Grape(s): Merlot
Vintage: 2006
Colour: nice deep purple
Smell: first instinct, very nice! A clean, light aroma with a lovely airy fruity scent. Blackberries was the first level of aroma. Infact it was a bit like smelling ribena. Then as the aromas developed we could smell more earthy tones, more peaty in depth. I was a bit confused by this scent because I thought morocco had a warmer climate.
Taste: This was a off dry, low acidity, low tannin, light bodied flavour. But I was a bit disappointed with the flavour. It tasted quite watery and had a honey flavour. The length was pretty short.
Conclusion: It was OK wine. The aromas were more exciting than the flavours.
WINEDEX: 4 out of 10. (But I wont mix with fruit juice….)
Final Comments: I was so excited about this wine because it was an African wine and I totally love trying new regions and see unknown wine regions make their mark in the wine world. This was my first Moroccan wine so to be honest as a first introduction it was disappointment but I wont give up I want to try others and never let the first variety lay claim to be representation of the brand.
Country: Morocco, Beni M'Tir appellation
Grape(s): Merlot
Vintage: 2006
Colour: nice deep purple
Smell: first instinct, very nice! A clean, light aroma with a lovely airy fruity scent. Blackberries was the first level of aroma. Infact it was a bit like smelling ribena. Then as the aromas developed we could smell more earthy tones, more peaty in depth. I was a bit confused by this scent because I thought morocco had a warmer climate.
Taste: This was a off dry, low acidity, low tannin, light bodied flavour. But I was a bit disappointed with the flavour. It tasted quite watery and had a honey flavour. The length was pretty short.
Conclusion: It was OK wine. The aromas were more exciting than the flavours.
WINEDEX: 4 out of 10. (But I wont mix with fruit juice….)
Final Comments: I was so excited about this wine because it was an African wine and I totally love trying new regions and see unknown wine regions make their mark in the wine world. This was my first Moroccan wine so to be honest as a first introduction it was disappointment but I wont give up I want to try others and never let the first variety lay claim to be representation of the brand.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
2005, India, Chateau Indage Estate, Chantilli Chardonnay
Name: Chateau Indage Estate Vineyards, Chantilli
Country: India
Grape(s): Chardonnay, (IWSC – Bronze Award, 1995)
Vintage: 2005
Colour: a pretty golden colour.
Smell: I have to admit the first aromas didn’t speak volumes to me, but then that was me. The aromas were earthy and musky with notes of lemons and also a marginal smokiness to it as well. Wilma picked up a more medicinal scent – sort of like the smell of a band aid. I was confused – put it that way. With the aroma not being a particular favourite of mine I was hoping the taste would take this wine out of the attic.
Taste: This was a off dry, low acidic light bodied flavour. Its flavour spoke volumes of honey blossoms with a green apple hint. There again was that cough mixture tendency. The length was reasonable.
Conclusion: I struggled with rating this wine as it was the first chardonnay I had tried from India and I didn’t want this to reflect badly. I would say this was an OK wine.
WINDEX: 3 out of 10.
Final Comments: Well first impressions from India were not good. I was quite disappointed as I was so impressed with the merlot that came from the same vineyard. In some ways it reminded me of watered down of apple juice. However, it wasn’t disgusting and if you like the earthy, musky type wine flavours you may enjoy this better than I did. Again this all comes down to personal preferences, cos that is what wine drinking is all about.
Country: India
Grape(s): Chardonnay, (IWSC – Bronze Award, 1995)
Vintage: 2005
Colour: a pretty golden colour.
Smell: I have to admit the first aromas didn’t speak volumes to me, but then that was me. The aromas were earthy and musky with notes of lemons and also a marginal smokiness to it as well. Wilma picked up a more medicinal scent – sort of like the smell of a band aid. I was confused – put it that way. With the aroma not being a particular favourite of mine I was hoping the taste would take this wine out of the attic.
Taste: This was a off dry, low acidic light bodied flavour. Its flavour spoke volumes of honey blossoms with a green apple hint. There again was that cough mixture tendency. The length was reasonable.
Conclusion: I struggled with rating this wine as it was the first chardonnay I had tried from India and I didn’t want this to reflect badly. I would say this was an OK wine.
WINDEX: 3 out of 10.
Final Comments: Well first impressions from India were not good. I was quite disappointed as I was so impressed with the merlot that came from the same vineyard. In some ways it reminded me of watered down of apple juice. However, it wasn’t disgusting and if you like the earthy, musky type wine flavours you may enjoy this better than I did. Again this all comes down to personal preferences, cos that is what wine drinking is all about.
2005, Spain, Catalonia, Coronas, Torres, Tempranillo
Name: Coronas, Torres
Country: Catalonia, Sprain
Grape(s): 86% Tempranillo, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2005
Colour: A beautiful intense ruby colur that reminded me of a thin port.
Smell: Yummy, was my first thought and the excitement just to taste at that point was killing me. But I waited a bit because the aromas need to have their own lime light, even if its just for a brief moment. Spiciness was the first level of aromas really elegant black pepper that made me want to sneeze. Then as we moved through the ladder of aromas you could also smell the black berries to give it that fruity sense. Geoff (glugateer member) picked up the scent of chillies. Wilma (glugateer member) seemed to find another level of aromas. She found hints of roses, earthiness and even a yeasty tinge. Interesting, I thought. Different paletes different impressions.
Taste: This was a dry, low acidity, medium bodied wine. With deep prominent flavours of blackberries – a realy fruity consistency. I expected a longer length with this 4 year old bottle but it remained short. The biographers of this wine suggest a long length but this probably applies to a much older wine.
Conclusion: A good wine.
WINDEX: 7 out of 10.
Final Comments: Old world wines have never been a priority with me but I remember trying a varietal of Torres a few years ago so I thought I would give this a whirl. Secondly this was a grape variety that I had always had that was part of a blend and not being the majority of the flavour. I thoroughly enjoyed this grape variety and I would have it again. Very nice
Country: Catalonia, Sprain
Grape(s): 86% Tempranillo, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2005
Colour: A beautiful intense ruby colur that reminded me of a thin port.
Smell: Yummy, was my first thought and the excitement just to taste at that point was killing me. But I waited a bit because the aromas need to have their own lime light, even if its just for a brief moment. Spiciness was the first level of aromas really elegant black pepper that made me want to sneeze. Then as we moved through the ladder of aromas you could also smell the black berries to give it that fruity sense. Geoff (glugateer member) picked up the scent of chillies. Wilma (glugateer member) seemed to find another level of aromas. She found hints of roses, earthiness and even a yeasty tinge. Interesting, I thought. Different paletes different impressions.
Taste: This was a dry, low acidity, medium bodied wine. With deep prominent flavours of blackberries – a realy fruity consistency. I expected a longer length with this 4 year old bottle but it remained short. The biographers of this wine suggest a long length but this probably applies to a much older wine.
Conclusion: A good wine.
WINDEX: 7 out of 10.
Final Comments: Old world wines have never been a priority with me but I remember trying a varietal of Torres a few years ago so I thought I would give this a whirl. Secondly this was a grape variety that I had always had that was part of a blend and not being the majority of the flavour. I thoroughly enjoyed this grape variety and I would have it again. Very nice
Thursday, April 9, 2009
2008 Chilean, Central Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon
Name: Sunrise
Country: Chile
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2008
Colour: a beautiful dark crimson colour that smiles when the light catches it…its really pretty.
Smell: This wine has a number of aroma levels to it. On first impressions it speaks volumes of black pepper spiceness but as the aroma develops in your nose you begin to capture fruit hints of black berries and plums. I even picked up a mild buttery scent…this was quite a bouquet of scents.
Taste: This was an off dry, low acidity, low tannin light bodied wine. Its flavours were set in black pepper and black berries. The length of the drink was short but the after taste was delicate and pretty.
Conclusion: A good wine.
WINDEX: 7 out of 10.
Final Comments: I really liked this cabernet sauvignon. It was a pleasure to drink and completely glugable. I would really recommend this. The label spoke of notes of chocolate but I couldn't taste it....I guess it depends on who's chocolate you are comparing the tast with. I think its one of those wines that if you didn’t know what to buy and you saw this brand and grape then you know you were being safe and would happily serve it up at a party. IN addition to that they price well. They are not overally expensive. This is the second variety from Sun Rise vineyard from Chile. I am really impressed with all their characteristics. I look forward to tasting their Merlot and thier Chardonnay.
According to their website this is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Carmenere. The Merlot has a similiar consistency with 90% Merlot and 10% Carmenere.
Country: Chile
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2008
Colour: a beautiful dark crimson colour that smiles when the light catches it…its really pretty.
Smell: This wine has a number of aroma levels to it. On first impressions it speaks volumes of black pepper spiceness but as the aroma develops in your nose you begin to capture fruit hints of black berries and plums. I even picked up a mild buttery scent…this was quite a bouquet of scents.
Taste: This was an off dry, low acidity, low tannin light bodied wine. Its flavours were set in black pepper and black berries. The length of the drink was short but the after taste was delicate and pretty.
Conclusion: A good wine.
WINDEX: 7 out of 10.
Final Comments: I really liked this cabernet sauvignon. It was a pleasure to drink and completely glugable. I would really recommend this. The label spoke of notes of chocolate but I couldn't taste it....I guess it depends on who's chocolate you are comparing the tast with. I think its one of those wines that if you didn’t know what to buy and you saw this brand and grape then you know you were being safe and would happily serve it up at a party. IN addition to that they price well. They are not overally expensive. This is the second variety from Sun Rise vineyard from Chile. I am really impressed with all their characteristics. I look forward to tasting their Merlot and thier Chardonnay.
According to their website this is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Carmenere. The Merlot has a similiar consistency with 90% Merlot and 10% Carmenere.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Chile, Central Valley, Sun Rise, Sauvignon Blanc, 2008
Name: Sunrise
Country: Chile
Grape(s): Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage: 2008
Colour: clear crispy lemon colour…..
Smell: A real clean fresh scent, which is light and airy. You get an instant hit of citrus flavours – lemon and grapefruit were my first thoughts. This developed into aromas of nettles, pineapple and gooseberries. But there is another level to this and I could pick up hints of black pepper.
Taste: Very dry and quite acidic. The flavour was more on the light side and was very much a citrus taste. Lemons and grapefruit were very pronounced and then hints of gooseberries.
Conclusion: A good wine.
WINEDEX: 6 out of 10.
Final Comments: Unless you really really enjoy the citrus sharp flavours then I think you are on to a winner with this one. It had all the classic signs of a young Sauvignon Blanc. What you smelt is what you tasted however, I didn’t taste any pepperiness which I picked up on when I was smelling it. I would highly recommend that you drunk this ice cold as I felt that has the bottle warmed up the flavour became a bit denser and the citrus flavour was not so entertaining anymore.
Country: Chile
Grape(s): Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage: 2008
Colour: clear crispy lemon colour…..
Smell: A real clean fresh scent, which is light and airy. You get an instant hit of citrus flavours – lemon and grapefruit were my first thoughts. This developed into aromas of nettles, pineapple and gooseberries. But there is another level to this and I could pick up hints of black pepper.
Taste: Very dry and quite acidic. The flavour was more on the light side and was very much a citrus taste. Lemons and grapefruit were very pronounced and then hints of gooseberries.
Conclusion: A good wine.
WINEDEX: 6 out of 10.
Final Comments: Unless you really really enjoy the citrus sharp flavours then I think you are on to a winner with this one. It had all the classic signs of a young Sauvignon Blanc. What you smelt is what you tasted however, I didn’t taste any pepperiness which I picked up on when I was smelling it. I would highly recommend that you drunk this ice cold as I felt that has the bottle warmed up the flavour became a bit denser and the citrus flavour was not so entertaining anymore.
Monday, April 6, 2009
India, Maharastra - Chantilli, Merlot, 2005
Name: Chantilli – Chateaux indage
Country: Maharashta, India
Grape(s): Merlot
Vintage: 2005
Colour: reddish with with brown tinge around the edges
Smell: very clean, light, fruity scent, very pleasant. 1st hint is black current but on another 2nd level there is a ck ppery scent….very nice. Quite a friendly smell.
Taste: Off dry, low acidity, low tannin, light body and a medium length.
Conclusion: A good wine…one that could compete well with other new world wines.
WINDEX: 7 to 8 out of 10.
Final Comments: I was surprisingly impressed with this wine. I had set myself for sharp, bitter tasting urine which was going to completely unpalatable however, the complete opposite was experienced. This was a very impressive wine. I would happily serve this up at a dinner party. The initial thought of ‘indian wine’ would be a negative set of words but I am sure on smell and taste the drinker would be surprised. This was back on my wine shopping list for round 2 as I only bought one bottle…however, on returning this wine was sold out. If folk have caught on to this quiet surprise then at Dhs. 15 a bottle…it’s a hot seller. Hmm…may be I should keep this too myself. Have bought the Indian white from this same vineyard….I am looking forward to opening that bottle.
Country: Maharashta, India
Grape(s): Merlot
Vintage: 2005
Colour: reddish with with brown tinge around the edges
Smell: very clean, light, fruity scent, very pleasant. 1st hint is black current but on another 2nd level there is a ck ppery scent….very nice. Quite a friendly smell.
Taste: Off dry, low acidity, low tannin, light body and a medium length.
Conclusion: A good wine…one that could compete well with other new world wines.
WINDEX: 7 to 8 out of 10.
Final Comments: I was surprisingly impressed with this wine. I had set myself for sharp, bitter tasting urine which was going to completely unpalatable however, the complete opposite was experienced. This was a very impressive wine. I would happily serve this up at a dinner party. The initial thought of ‘indian wine’ would be a negative set of words but I am sure on smell and taste the drinker would be surprised. This was back on my wine shopping list for round 2 as I only bought one bottle…however, on returning this wine was sold out. If folk have caught on to this quiet surprise then at Dhs. 15 a bottle…it’s a hot seller. Hmm…may be I should keep this too myself. Have bought the Indian white from this same vineyard….I am looking forward to opening that bottle.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Chile - Villard - Merlot - 2006
Name: Villard
Country: Chile, Casablanca Valley
Grape(s): Merlot
Vintage: 2006
Colour: Dark ruby colour
Smell: Lots of things happening here. I found it fruity, yet spicy and vegetable levels of the aroma and then a buttery scent would also come through. It was quite pronounced aromas which made me think that this would be a much heavier merlot.
Taste: Dry, medium acidity, medium tannins with a long length. As predicted it was a heavy merlot with lots of body but still tasted velvety. Its thicker denser body made it very smooth and not a rough wine.
Conclusion: An good wine
WINEDEX: 8 out of 10
Final comments: Well we couldn’t hold out too long challenging a Uruguayan Merlot to a Chile merlot. Both very distinct flavours. I really liked this merlot I loved the full body of this wine and really fancied a nice piece of steak to go with it. This was my type of merlot and thoroughly enjoyed drinking it.
If I was to compare them, well they were very different. You could tell that the Chilean merlot came from a cooler climate and the Uruguay was from a warmer climate.
We intend to challenge a few merlots from this region …so let’s see how that goes down. Watch this space.
Country: Chile, Casablanca Valley
Grape(s): Merlot
Vintage: 2006
Colour: Dark ruby colour
Smell: Lots of things happening here. I found it fruity, yet spicy and vegetable levels of the aroma and then a buttery scent would also come through. It was quite pronounced aromas which made me think that this would be a much heavier merlot.
Taste: Dry, medium acidity, medium tannins with a long length. As predicted it was a heavy merlot with lots of body but still tasted velvety. Its thicker denser body made it very smooth and not a rough wine.
Conclusion: An good wine
WINEDEX: 8 out of 10
Final comments: Well we couldn’t hold out too long challenging a Uruguayan Merlot to a Chile merlot. Both very distinct flavours. I really liked this merlot I loved the full body of this wine and really fancied a nice piece of steak to go with it. This was my type of merlot and thoroughly enjoyed drinking it.
If I was to compare them, well they were very different. You could tell that the Chilean merlot came from a cooler climate and the Uruguay was from a warmer climate.
We intend to challenge a few merlots from this region …so let’s see how that goes down. Watch this space.
Uruguay, Ariano, Merlot, 2005
Name: Ariano
Country: Uruguay, Canelones Province
Grape(s): Merlot
Vintage: 2005
Colour: Crimson /ruby colour on the light side of these colours
Smell: Very berry aromas which were quite light. It smelled very clean and had fresh crisp finish.
Taste: Dry, low acidity, low tannin with a light body to it. Flavours were more on the vegetable flavour and oaky touches. Mummy mentioned that for her they had a buttery/creamy finish.
Conclusion: An good wine
WINEDEX: 7 out of 10 for Muscat grape but 8 out of 10 for Uruguay
Final comments: This was my first Uruguayan Red and I have to say I was impressed. This was a light bodied merlot which would be great drunk on its own or with a poultry dish. The label advises that it has a more herby scent so we pulled out some sage, thyme and mint to bring back those smells but to be honest my nose picked up the fruity berry area. Again as a Uruguayan wine I was impressed…it does stand out and was very glubable. I also want to challenge this wine to its neighbouring countries….I think a South American Merlot drink fest is on the cards. Well Done Uruguay.
Country: Uruguay, Canelones Province
Grape(s): Merlot
Vintage: 2005
Colour: Crimson /ruby colour on the light side of these colours
Smell: Very berry aromas which were quite light. It smelled very clean and had fresh crisp finish.
Taste: Dry, low acidity, low tannin with a light body to it. Flavours were more on the vegetable flavour and oaky touches. Mummy mentioned that for her they had a buttery/creamy finish.
Conclusion: An good wine
WINEDEX: 7 out of 10 for Muscat grape but 8 out of 10 for Uruguay
Final comments: This was my first Uruguayan Red and I have to say I was impressed. This was a light bodied merlot which would be great drunk on its own or with a poultry dish. The label advises that it has a more herby scent so we pulled out some sage, thyme and mint to bring back those smells but to be honest my nose picked up the fruity berry area. Again as a Uruguayan wine I was impressed…it does stand out and was very glubable. I also want to challenge this wine to its neighbouring countries….I think a South American Merlot drink fest is on the cards. Well Done Uruguay.
Uruguay - Ariano, Muscat Ottonel 2005
Name: Ariano Muscat Ottonel
Country: Uruguay, Canelones Province
Notes: This grape is a member of the muscat grape variety. Originally from France it was first cultivated in the Alsace region of the Loire valley. This is commonly a dessert wine due to its perfume aromas.
Grape(s): Muscat Ottonel
Vintage: 2005
Colour: Dark gold colour – sort of like the colour of 22 Karat gold. Mummy said it looked like beer which it does actually.
Smell: The first scents were the flloral aromas, sort of like a bouquet of young roses. Very typical of the Muscat family. Smelling more deeply you could pick up the mild aroma of a fruit cocktail…a mixture of tropical fruit flavours.
Taste: Off Dry and acidic with prounounced grapefruit/citrus base at the same time you did think you were drinking roses!!! This had a short length to it.
Conclusion: An acceptable wine
WINEDEX: 6 out of 10 for Muscat grape but 8 out of 10 for Uruguay
Final comments: This was my very first Uruguay wine I had EVER had. I was really looking forward to opening this and see what the Uruguayans had to offer considering their neighbouring countries offered excellent wine. Comparing it to other Muscat wine I gave this 6 out of 10 because I am not keen on the floral aromas and tastes. I love roses but not in my mouth. However, it was a nice wine and I can see why it works well as a dessert variety. I commented that this was an off dry taste but I think really it heads towards being more medium in flavour. It is quite deceptive and it does confuse you….you can think about it one way and then you sip it again and it gives you something else to play with. However, given that this was a Uruguayan wine I was impressed. I would buy this again….and try others. It was surprisingly good. I want to try another Uruguayan wine and compare it to chile and argentina….its going to be good.
Country: Uruguay, Canelones Province
Notes: This grape is a member of the muscat grape variety. Originally from France it was first cultivated in the Alsace region of the Loire valley. This is commonly a dessert wine due to its perfume aromas.
Grape(s): Muscat Ottonel
Vintage: 2005
Colour: Dark gold colour – sort of like the colour of 22 Karat gold. Mummy said it looked like beer which it does actually.
Smell: The first scents were the flloral aromas, sort of like a bouquet of young roses. Very typical of the Muscat family. Smelling more deeply you could pick up the mild aroma of a fruit cocktail…a mixture of tropical fruit flavours.
Taste: Off Dry and acidic with prounounced grapefruit/citrus base at the same time you did think you were drinking roses!!! This had a short length to it.
Conclusion: An acceptable wine
WINEDEX: 6 out of 10 for Muscat grape but 8 out of 10 for Uruguay
Final comments: This was my very first Uruguay wine I had EVER had. I was really looking forward to opening this and see what the Uruguayans had to offer considering their neighbouring countries offered excellent wine. Comparing it to other Muscat wine I gave this 6 out of 10 because I am not keen on the floral aromas and tastes. I love roses but not in my mouth. However, it was a nice wine and I can see why it works well as a dessert variety. I commented that this was an off dry taste but I think really it heads towards being more medium in flavour. It is quite deceptive and it does confuse you….you can think about it one way and then you sip it again and it gives you something else to play with. However, given that this was a Uruguayan wine I was impressed. I would buy this again….and try others. It was surprisingly good. I want to try another Uruguayan wine and compare it to chile and argentina….its going to be good.
Jordan - Grands Vin de Jordan - Machareus Region, Madaba, Chardonnay & Sauvignon Blanc 2003
Name: Grandes vins de Jordanie
Country: Jordan – Machareus region, Zumot Vineyard of Madaba
Notes: A jordan wine which is situated on one of the best lands in this area.
Grape(s): Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage: 2003
Colour: Light golden lemon colour
Smell: A light earthy aroma which is a strong indication of the chardonnay grape in this blend. The scent is not very pronounced. You do really have to sniff this drink to pull in the aromas. I was expecting more heavier aromas given that it was 5 years old
Taste: An off dry mild grapefruit flavour, light in intensity – The length of the drink was also quite short. A nice taste which was quite distinct from its aromas.
Conclusion: This was a acceptable wine.
WINEDEX: 7 out of 10
Final comments: This was my first Jordanian wine I had ever tried. My initial thoughts were that this was going to taste vile. Jordan is not exactly famed for wine. However, I have to say that I was quietly impressed. Given that it was already 5 years old I was expecting stronger more intense flavours but not at all it had a short length and really tasted like it was only a few years old…if that. It held all the characteristics of a chardonnay and a sauvignon blanc. It was unpleasant at all and really held its own. I would buy this again and I would serve this up to folk at a dinner party because of its blend it would smell and taste great for both Chardonnay and Sauvignon blanc drinkers. I saw on the Zumot website that they have a red which is a blend of pinot noir and Cabernet sauvignon so I look forward to drinking that one.
Country: Jordan – Machareus region, Zumot Vineyard of Madaba
Notes: A jordan wine which is situated on one of the best lands in this area.
Grape(s): Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage: 2003
Colour: Light golden lemon colour
Smell: A light earthy aroma which is a strong indication of the chardonnay grape in this blend. The scent is not very pronounced. You do really have to sniff this drink to pull in the aromas. I was expecting more heavier aromas given that it was 5 years old
Taste: An off dry mild grapefruit flavour, light in intensity – The length of the drink was also quite short. A nice taste which was quite distinct from its aromas.
Conclusion: This was a acceptable wine.
WINEDEX: 7 out of 10
Final comments: This was my first Jordanian wine I had ever tried. My initial thoughts were that this was going to taste vile. Jordan is not exactly famed for wine. However, I have to say that I was quietly impressed. Given that it was already 5 years old I was expecting stronger more intense flavours but not at all it had a short length and really tasted like it was only a few years old…if that. It held all the characteristics of a chardonnay and a sauvignon blanc. It was unpleasant at all and really held its own. I would buy this again and I would serve this up to folk at a dinner party because of its blend it would smell and taste great for both Chardonnay and Sauvignon blanc drinkers. I saw on the Zumot website that they have a red which is a blend of pinot noir and Cabernet sauvignon so I look forward to drinking that one.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
France, Fat Bastard, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2007
Name: Fat bastard, Thierry & Guy
Country: French Wine
Notes: Thierry Boudinaud is a French winemaker who believes that "the average consumer hated the traditional intimidation heaped upon them by most of the wine industry." He partnered with British winemaker Guy Anderson to produce and distribute FAT bastard wine, which is labeled by the variety of grape from which it is made.
FAT bastard is a French wine produced and distributed by a British and French partnership. A 2005 survey found that 72% of the adult French population finds it difficult to understand French wine labels, and the problem is not unique to that country. Research found many consumers, disliked wine labels that picture chateaux, that appear elitist, and that are difficult to understand. FAT bastard appears to solve that marketing problem. The label reflects the fact that most New World (and many Old World) consumers prefer to buy "brand name" wines that are labeled by the variety of grape from which they are made. (source: Wikipedia.org)
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2007
Colour: Deep ruby
Smell: Its has very much a black berry, cherry flavour. – There was a kind of vegetal taste as well but I couldn’t put my finger on it.
Taste: : This was as the label said a rich, round full body wine. Lots of tannin and very much on the dry side of taste. It did have good length to it too. Again the flavours were fruity based.
Conclusion: This was a acceptable wine.
WINEDEX: 6 out of 10
Final comments: I bought this because I had never seen a bottle called “Fat Bastard” before and I really wanted to know what this tasted like. I am also have fan of Caberne Sauvignon. This was a young Cabernet Sauvignon and too be honest this bottle may have been smoother had it been a bit more mature. The youngness of the drink (2007) could have meant that the full body flavour wasn’t as smooth as it could be or even as I would have liked. It was on more on the rough side. I would definitely buy this bottle again but leave it a few years to see if letting it sit for a few years helps this flavour. Anyway it will be cool to have a bottle sat there called Fat Bastard…people will remember it!! Good marketing ploy!!
Country: French Wine
Notes: Thierry Boudinaud is a French winemaker who believes that "the average consumer hated the traditional intimidation heaped upon them by most of the wine industry." He partnered with British winemaker Guy Anderson to produce and distribute FAT bastard wine, which is labeled by the variety of grape from which it is made.
FAT bastard is a French wine produced and distributed by a British and French partnership. A 2005 survey found that 72% of the adult French population finds it difficult to understand French wine labels, and the problem is not unique to that country. Research found many consumers, disliked wine labels that picture chateaux, that appear elitist, and that are difficult to understand. FAT bastard appears to solve that marketing problem. The label reflects the fact that most New World (and many Old World) consumers prefer to buy "brand name" wines that are labeled by the variety of grape from which they are made. (source: Wikipedia.org)
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2007
Colour: Deep ruby
Smell: Its has very much a black berry, cherry flavour. – There was a kind of vegetal taste as well but I couldn’t put my finger on it.
Taste: : This was as the label said a rich, round full body wine. Lots of tannin and very much on the dry side of taste. It did have good length to it too. Again the flavours were fruity based.
Conclusion: This was a acceptable wine.
WINEDEX: 6 out of 10
Final comments: I bought this because I had never seen a bottle called “Fat Bastard” before and I really wanted to know what this tasted like. I am also have fan of Caberne Sauvignon. This was a young Cabernet Sauvignon and too be honest this bottle may have been smoother had it been a bit more mature. The youngness of the drink (2007) could have meant that the full body flavour wasn’t as smooth as it could be or even as I would have liked. It was on more on the rough side. I would definitely buy this bottle again but leave it a few years to see if letting it sit for a few years helps this flavour. Anyway it will be cool to have a bottle sat there called Fat Bastard…people will remember it!! Good marketing ploy!!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Spain - Navajas Crianza, Rioja, 2005
Name: Navajas Crianza
Country: Spain
Region: Rioja: Denominación de Origen: Calificada
Notes: A "crianza" is wine aged for at least two years, at least one of which was in oak. Navajas is a family-run estate, situated just outside the small town of Navarrete in La Rioja Alta.
Grape(s): Tempranillo 85%, garnacha 15%
Vintage: 2005
Colour: Ruby
Smell: Fruity scent initially but then you start to smell a more sweeter constituation with a vanilla or buttery aroma. Daddy said he interpreted some of the smells as being like oily fish….hmm..interesting.
Taste: A really nice early spring in its taste – real fruity flavours and hints of watermelon were something I picked up on. A nice rounded flavour with an off dry flavour and overall a medium body
Conclusion: This was a good wine –
WINEDEX: 7 out of 10
Final comments: I don’t really know a lot about Spanish wine - I am more of a new world drinker, but I wasn’t disappointed with this wine. It stood nicely on it own and was a great flavour. I would by this again and try more from this region for sure.
Country: Spain
Region: Rioja: Denominación de Origen: Calificada
Notes: A "crianza" is wine aged for at least two years, at least one of which was in oak. Navajas is a family-run estate, situated just outside the small town of Navarrete in La Rioja Alta.
Grape(s): Tempranillo 85%, garnacha 15%
Vintage: 2005
Colour: Ruby
Smell: Fruity scent initially but then you start to smell a more sweeter constituation with a vanilla or buttery aroma. Daddy said he interpreted some of the smells as being like oily fish….hmm..interesting.
Taste: A really nice early spring in its taste – real fruity flavours and hints of watermelon were something I picked up on. A nice rounded flavour with an off dry flavour and overall a medium body
Conclusion: This was a good wine –
WINEDEX: 7 out of 10
Final comments: I don’t really know a lot about Spanish wine - I am more of a new world drinker, but I wasn’t disappointed with this wine. It stood nicely on it own and was a great flavour. I would by this again and try more from this region for sure.
Argentina, Zolo, Mendoza, 2004, Malbec
Name: Zolo
Country: Argentina
Region: Mendoza
Grape(s): Malbec, Red
Vintage: 2004
Colour: Crimson/ruby
Smell: A very pronounced spiciness to this wine – full of cinnamon, gloves, nutmeg. Daddy picked up a touch of petrol!!!! Really lovely aroma – smells like christmas
Taste: The flavour was very berry flavoured, I could taste black berries, cherries – was just lovely. The flavour was very much an off dry flavour with a short length meaning that it the flavour didn’t hang around in the mouth for too long. It had low tannin levels too giving it a lighter body and completely glubable. Very nice indeed.
Food ate with wine: A light cheese fondue. The combination of this light cheese and read wine was really fantastic Conclusion: A great wine.
WINEDEX: 9 out of 10
Final comments: Malbec is clearly one of my favourite grapes in the world. It never lets me down. The spicy/fruity aromas and flavour create a beautiful velvety flavours and lots of movement in the drink. As it sits and the air gets to it I really do think the flavours get better and more intense. I would recommend this bottle and this brand. A great wine. This malbec was 4 years old I would like to try a young malbec and see if there is a contrast and see if age really does made the malbec a better mature drink or a young drink. Watch this space.
Country: Argentina
Region: Mendoza
Grape(s): Malbec, Red
Vintage: 2004
Colour: Crimson/ruby
Smell: A very pronounced spiciness to this wine – full of cinnamon, gloves, nutmeg. Daddy picked up a touch of petrol!!!! Really lovely aroma – smells like christmas
Taste: The flavour was very berry flavoured, I could taste black berries, cherries – was just lovely. The flavour was very much an off dry flavour with a short length meaning that it the flavour didn’t hang around in the mouth for too long. It had low tannin levels too giving it a lighter body and completely glubable. Very nice indeed.
Food ate with wine: A light cheese fondue. The combination of this light cheese and read wine was really fantastic Conclusion: A great wine.
WINEDEX: 9 out of 10
Final comments: Malbec is clearly one of my favourite grapes in the world. It never lets me down. The spicy/fruity aromas and flavour create a beautiful velvety flavours and lots of movement in the drink. As it sits and the air gets to it I really do think the flavours get better and more intense. I would recommend this bottle and this brand. A great wine. This malbec was 4 years old I would like to try a young malbec and see if there is a contrast and see if age really does made the malbec a better mature drink or a young drink. Watch this space.
France, Rhone Valley, Grand Reserve Cairanne, 2005,
Name: Grande Reserve Cairanne, A.O.C Côtes du Rhône" denomination
Country: France
Region: Rhone Valley
Grape(s): Grenache white, Clairette white, Marsanne white, Roussanne white, Bourboulenc white, Viognier white, other white grape varieties tolerated 20% maximum.
Vintage: 2005
Notes: Remember that French Wine go by region so Cairanne is a region of the Rhony Valley
Colour: Gold
Smell: Lots of citrus based flavours. I could smell, green apples, gooseberries with hints of grapefruit and a wiff of pineapple just underneath. This was a very light scent and not very pronounced.
Taste: Off dry heading down the road to medium, low acidity. Unexpected different taste to the scent was more floral in nature. Wasn’t a very exciting blend it felt kind of flat in the mouth and didn’t have many high or low notes which would interest me.
Food ate with wine: WE had chicken with a slight Bbq flavour, I added sprinkles of Tabasco sauce to the chicken to give it a kick and that really went well this is wine. My other suggestion for food would have been a nice light flavoured white fish. Hammour I think would work well here with a lemon based sauce.
Conclusion: An acceptable wine.
WINEDEX: 5 out of 10
Final comments: It’s a blend – I am not familiar with all these different grapes apart from the Grenache so I am not in a position say if this is a good blend of these grapes or not. However, I can comment on taste which is probably more important. Personally I thought this was ok…but it didn’t really inspire me. Dad, on the other hand thought this was an excellent wine and commented that this would be a nice drink to have on its own while watching the footy. I thought the wine was bland on its own however with the combination of BBQ chicken and Tabasco it did lift up a bit more.
Country: France
Region: Rhone Valley
Grape(s): Grenache white, Clairette white, Marsanne white, Roussanne white, Bourboulenc white, Viognier white, other white grape varieties tolerated 20% maximum.
Vintage: 2005
Notes: Remember that French Wine go by region so Cairanne is a region of the Rhony Valley
Colour: Gold
Smell: Lots of citrus based flavours. I could smell, green apples, gooseberries with hints of grapefruit and a wiff of pineapple just underneath. This was a very light scent and not very pronounced.
Taste: Off dry heading down the road to medium, low acidity. Unexpected different taste to the scent was more floral in nature. Wasn’t a very exciting blend it felt kind of flat in the mouth and didn’t have many high or low notes which would interest me.
Food ate with wine: WE had chicken with a slight Bbq flavour, I added sprinkles of Tabasco sauce to the chicken to give it a kick and that really went well this is wine. My other suggestion for food would have been a nice light flavoured white fish. Hammour I think would work well here with a lemon based sauce.
Conclusion: An acceptable wine.
WINEDEX: 5 out of 10
Final comments: It’s a blend – I am not familiar with all these different grapes apart from the Grenache so I am not in a position say if this is a good blend of these grapes or not. However, I can comment on taste which is probably more important. Personally I thought this was ok…but it didn’t really inspire me. Dad, on the other hand thought this was an excellent wine and commented that this would be a nice drink to have on its own while watching the footy. I thought the wine was bland on its own however with the combination of BBQ chicken and Tabasco it did lift up a bit more.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
New Zealand - Cape Campbell - Sauvignon Blanc - 2007
Name: Cape Campbell
Country: New Zealand
Notes: New Zealand wine really is one of my favourite's when it comes to new world wines. There is just something fresh and invigorating about a new zealand wine. I have never been disappointed with one. I find most New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs do have similiar citrus flavours that sometimes make the wine sooo good I can't help but drink it quickly. Its just so good. They all hold that citrus backbone with a few twists of their own distinct flavouring. Its always nice to open a bottle of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and wait to see what the citrusy flavour is shared with. The other great thing about a New Zealand Sauvignon blanc as I always find a a wine that is an easy introduction into drinking white wine. Very few people do not like the flavour - and so those that aren't sure about what to drink - this is always a good starting point.
So - what have we here? This particular Savvy I had never bought before however, I did start with certain expectations and intended on see them and looking to surpass them. It promise of citrusy, "spark up your taste buds" wine was kept. And I wasn't disappointed. That whole New Zealand flavour came through and with its own unique characteristics as well.
Vintage: 2007
Grape(s) Sauvignon Blanc
Colour: It had a lovely light lemon/golden colour - Very pretty indeed.
Smell: It was very fragrant but it was light and fruity. What I was expecting. You could instantly tell you were going to have citrus flavours of grape fruit, gooseberry...etc.
Taste: Yummy. my expectations were met. Grapefruit flavour was very distinct followed by a gooseberry hint. The citrus flavours were just fantastic. It was definately on the dry side of wine with quite high acidity level as well because the flavours of grapefruit/gooseberries and hints of green applies were quite sharp. But all that was expected from this wine. It had a light taste initally which did pack a wee punch but also sat on the margins of having a medium body. Overall its length was short...its didn't last long in the mouth.
Country: New Zealand
Notes: New Zealand wine really is one of my favourite's when it comes to new world wines. There is just something fresh and invigorating about a new zealand wine. I have never been disappointed with one. I find most New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs do have similiar citrus flavours that sometimes make the wine sooo good I can't help but drink it quickly. Its just so good. They all hold that citrus backbone with a few twists of their own distinct flavouring. Its always nice to open a bottle of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and wait to see what the citrusy flavour is shared with. The other great thing about a New Zealand Sauvignon blanc as I always find a a wine that is an easy introduction into drinking white wine. Very few people do not like the flavour - and so those that aren't sure about what to drink - this is always a good starting point.
So - what have we here? This particular Savvy I had never bought before however, I did start with certain expectations and intended on see them and looking to surpass them. It promise of citrusy, "spark up your taste buds" wine was kept. And I wasn't disappointed. That whole New Zealand flavour came through and with its own unique characteristics as well.
Vintage: 2007
Grape(s) Sauvignon Blanc
Colour: It had a lovely light lemon/golden colour - Very pretty indeed.
Smell: It was very fragrant but it was light and fruity. What I was expecting. You could instantly tell you were going to have citrus flavours of grape fruit, gooseberry...etc.
Taste: Yummy. my expectations were met. Grapefruit flavour was very distinct followed by a gooseberry hint. The citrus flavours were just fantastic. It was definately on the dry side of wine with quite high acidity level as well because the flavours of grapefruit/gooseberries and hints of green applies were quite sharp. But all that was expected from this wine. It had a light taste initally which did pack a wee punch but also sat on the margins of having a medium body. Overall its length was short...its didn't last long in the mouth.
Conclusion: This was a good wine. It did everything you would expect from a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. It was citrusy, you wanted to drink more of it and it had a warmth to it which made it feel comfortable and "feel at home". We had a roast chicken with this meal and had squeezed some lemon over the chicken as well as put the lemon wedges and garlic into the chicken cavity. The wine compliemented this dish very well.
Windex: 7 out of 10
Final comments: My favourite New Zealand Wine is Montana Marlborough and this has remained top of the pile for about 5 years. I enjoyed this Cape Campbell sauvignon blanc but it still not as great as my montana marlborough.
Windex: 7 out of 10
Saturday, November 15, 2008
France - Piper Heidsieck Champagne
We went to the JW Marriott all you can eat champagne brunch. Ken had his best friend out Des and his wife Mary and Tracey, mark, Charlotte, B and I all joined them. It was an excellent afternoon full of eating, drinking, dancing on the stage, just plain sillyness. At the end of the evening having ate tonnes and drunk tonnes we finally found out that between 8 of us we had consumed 10 bottles of champagne. Well......what's new....really!!
The champagne on today's menu was a Piper Heidsieck. Its not one that I would buy regularly I have only drunk it at the JW Marriott. Its a beautiful sight a glass of champagne - everyone smells and yells when the bottle pops...its always synonymous with some kind of momentus celebration. OK we were at brunch - nothing major to celebrate but the thought of great company, good food and you know a great afternoon is ahead.
So what was this champagne like you ask......??
Appearance.
Really pretty light golden colour - filled with bubbles just rising to the surface. To watch the bubbles in motion can be some what hypnotic....you are waiting in readiness for the toast so you can taste this pretty drink...
The bubbles did last a good while another indication of a good champagne.
Nose
I always find it difficult to smell a champagne. The bubbles get in the way and interfere with the smelling. It has rather light smell...but enough to ensure its present was known.
Taste
IT WAD YUMMY!!As the first drink of the day i did find it a tad strong. it kind of kicked up a bit as if to wake up your taste buds and lift them from their hibernating state.
It was definitely on the dry side of life.....but champagne that is dry is always good....its kind of my preference.
No tannin going on....
It held a very grapefruity position..that was what I picked up first...citrus was definitely the flavour of the day. Possibly some hints of green apples and gooseberries too.
It held its own and fairly medium bodied to me..and had a sort of medium length....
Conclusion
I ate primarily fish with this champagne and I have to say it did go very well. I would say this a good quality champagne. Well its history proves it, its been around since 1785. It was great and was also nice as a buck fizz as well. check out the website..the music alone is great and the content is interesting...
The champagne on today's menu was a Piper Heidsieck. Its not one that I would buy regularly I have only drunk it at the JW Marriott. Its a beautiful sight a glass of champagne - everyone smells and yells when the bottle pops...its always synonymous with some kind of momentus celebration. OK we were at brunch - nothing major to celebrate but the thought of great company, good food and you know a great afternoon is ahead.
So what was this champagne like you ask......??
Appearance.
Really pretty light golden colour - filled with bubbles just rising to the surface. To watch the bubbles in motion can be some what hypnotic....you are waiting in readiness for the toast so you can taste this pretty drink...
The bubbles did last a good while another indication of a good champagne.
Nose
I always find it difficult to smell a champagne. The bubbles get in the way and interfere with the smelling. It has rather light smell...but enough to ensure its present was known.
Taste
IT WAD YUMMY!!As the first drink of the day i did find it a tad strong. it kind of kicked up a bit as if to wake up your taste buds and lift them from their hibernating state.
It was definitely on the dry side of life.....but champagne that is dry is always good....its kind of my preference.
No tannin going on....
It held a very grapefruity position..that was what I picked up first...citrus was definitely the flavour of the day. Possibly some hints of green apples and gooseberries too.
It held its own and fairly medium bodied to me..and had a sort of medium length....
Conclusion
I ate primarily fish with this champagne and I have to say it did go very well. I would say this a good quality champagne. Well its history proves it, its been around since 1785. It was great and was also nice as a buck fizz as well. check out the website..the music alone is great and the content is interesting...
WINDEX:8 out of 10
My only complaint and this is purely me...i am still not in love with French wine and champagne. I am definitely a new world wine and sparkling wine drinker....I will continue to tackle the french wine and champagne...I have got to get over this ....xxArgentina - Santa Julia - Mendoza - Cabernet Sauvignon - 2007
Santa Julia was served up with a really yummy chicken wrapped in bacon with a tomatoe and mushroom sauce with a side dish of potato wedges. The meal was compliments of Tracey - who cooked this meal. She is a great at putting on a great meal.
Name: Santa Julia
Country: Argentina
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon
Colour:It was a lovely ruby colour - nice and deep. On appearance it looked like it would be a light red wine.
Smell: Its smell was light again adding to the thought that it would be a light red wine to drink. Its smelled quite spicy with a distinctively black pepper flavour. The label said black currents but I couldn't identify with that, but we could pick up a hint of cranberry - that was charlotte's suggestions and I thought that was very good. For me it was clearly on the spicy side of life.
Taste: It was definitely a full bodied spicy/black peppery Cabernet sauvignon taste. Lots of vegetable hints - not overly earthy but defintaly on that route. which was surprising given its light scent. Again proving that smell and taste can be distinctly different. It was definitely dry - not doubt about that It was very acidic either given it spicy smell and taste and its tannin levels were high. The taste lasted a while suggesting a some what medium length considering it full body attitude it was unusual.
Conclusion: This was an acceptable wine. I think maybe having it with chicken wrapped in bacon may have not been a good match. the wedges did well particularly as they had a lot of of salt and pepper seasoning. It was fine - it didn't stand out, it tasted average and OK. I think I would probably give this a bash again with a slightly heavier dinner to see if it reacts better. I don't know the price because it was bought by Tracey. But I will check that up next time.
Winedex: 6 out of 10
Final Comments:"Its good, I would drink it again, if there was nothing else on the menu that I liked I would probably have drunk that" I just looked up the wine buyer to see what they had to say about this wine. I was right i think a stronger meat will make this wine perform better. On the first introduction thought I am going to stick with my windex at this time until future notice.
Name: Santa Julia
Country: Argentina
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon
Colour:It was a lovely ruby colour - nice and deep. On appearance it looked like it would be a light red wine.
Smell: Its smell was light again adding to the thought that it would be a light red wine to drink. Its smelled quite spicy with a distinctively black pepper flavour. The label said black currents but I couldn't identify with that, but we could pick up a hint of cranberry - that was charlotte's suggestions and I thought that was very good. For me it was clearly on the spicy side of life.
Taste: It was definitely a full bodied spicy/black peppery Cabernet sauvignon taste. Lots of vegetable hints - not overly earthy but defintaly on that route. which was surprising given its light scent. Again proving that smell and taste can be distinctly different. It was definitely dry - not doubt about that It was very acidic either given it spicy smell and taste and its tannin levels were high. The taste lasted a while suggesting a some what medium length considering it full body attitude it was unusual.
Conclusion: This was an acceptable wine. I think maybe having it with chicken wrapped in bacon may have not been a good match. the wedges did well particularly as they had a lot of of salt and pepper seasoning. It was fine - it didn't stand out, it tasted average and OK. I think I would probably give this a bash again with a slightly heavier dinner to see if it reacts better. I don't know the price because it was bought by Tracey. But I will check that up next time.
Winedex: 6 out of 10
Final Comments:"Its good, I would drink it again, if there was nothing else on the menu that I liked I would probably have drunk that" I just looked up the wine buyer to see what they had to say about this wine. I was right i think a stronger meat will make this wine perform better. On the first introduction thought I am going to stick with my windex at this time until future notice.
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