Thursday, February 07, 2008
GPCi for Feb 16th 2008 release at the LCBO
GPCi top picks for up to $20
2004 SALTRAM OF BAROSSA MAMRE BROOK CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.90
2005 HÉCULA (Bodegas Castano) - $13.85
2005 CATENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Bodegas Catena Zapata) - $19.95
GPCi top picks for up to $25
2005 Montes Alpha CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $21.80
2004 DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE SAINT-JEAN VACQUEYRAS - $23.45
US (California)
2004 DOMINUS (Dominus Estate) - $90.95
RP=94 ; The elegant, dark plum/purple/garnet-colored 2004 Dominus exhibits a big, sweet, cedary, roasted herb, mocha, black cherry liqueur, black currant, and earth-scented perfume. Medium to full-bodied with silky tannin as well as a luscious mouthfeel and finish, it should be more accessible in its youth than many of its predecessors, but easily last for two decades. Drink now – 2026.
GPCi - one of California's more thought after wines. 2004 was an outstanding vintage (Both WS and RP rewarded it with 95). expensive yet tempting because its cellaring potential (not an amazing GPCi = 5).
2004 DOMINUS ESTATE NAPANOOK (Dominus Estate) - $39.95
RP=91 ; The estate’s second wine is the 3,600-case cuvee of 2004 Napanook, a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. A strong effort, it offers a beautiful seductive nose of dried herbs, damp earth, sweet cherries, cedar, and spice box. Opulent, round, sexy, and delicious, it should be consumed during its first decade of life. Drink 2006-2016.
GPCi - Dominus "light"/"for the poor" has the same GPCi as its big brother. So if you insist on buying a California cab from this release and you have a cash-flow challenge, go with the Napanook.
2004 Cheteau Montelena CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $45.95
86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc
IWC = 89 ; Good ruby-red. Rich aromas of black cherry and menthol. Sweet, dense and lush for this bottling, with black cherry and cassis flavors. Much finer-grained than the 2003 bottling. Finishes with sweet tannins Match: Beef and steak.
GPCi - Another Californian hallmark... not tempting enough to buy... I would expect more from the 2004. That's a skip for me.
2003 ALEXANDER'S CROWN CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Rodney Strong) - $39.85
http://www.rodneystrong.com/ - The Crown enjoys the coolest growing conditions of our cabernet vineyards, a major factor in its distinctive flavor profile.
We grow 3 different clones of cabernet in Clough, Pleasanton and Positas series soils, all gravelly loams with slopes in almost every direction. Every change in soil, slope and direction provides opportunities for complexity, and in keeping with our philosophy, each unique section of the Crown vineyard is harvested separately, vinified separately and reassembled artfully
into the multifaceted cabernet that we’ve known for thirty years.
Tasting Notes: Blackberry, red currant and fresh earth are core flavors with the Crown, and are
accented by hints of mint and herbs. 19 1/2 months in primarily French oak adds
a subtle toasty spice component, and both rounds and softens this elegant, Bordeaux
styled Cabernet into a graceful expression of the varietal that will entreat you to enjoy
another glass. Drink this classic “collector’s” Cabernet Sauvignon over the next 4 to 8 years.
http://www.tastings.com/ = 90 ; Deep, saturated blackish-ruby hue. Reserved, minerally cassis nose. A firm entry leads a structured, full-bodied palate with a sturdy tannic grip. Well-structured with good intensity and balance. Will blossom with five- to ten-years of cellaring. (Jan. 3rd, 2007)
GPCi - I like the wines from Rodney Strong. Had a few in the past and they were very different in a good way. very consistent. it seems tempting with a good cellaring potential.
2004 ALDEN VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Rodney Strong) - $39.80
http://www.rodneystrong.com/ - Winemaker Rick Sayre’s many years of winemaking experience in Sonoma County allowed him to quickly identify the
potential of this site for greatness. After the first vintage in 1981, grapes from the Alden Vineyard have ended up in several
of our programs, including our Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Finally, starting in 1996, Rick decided to honor the individual
nature of this vineyard with a single vineyard bottling.
Tasting Notes: Forward dark berry flavors with accents of chocolate, earth and bold, spicy oak give this powerful wine a lot to offer for near term enjoyment, but classic mountain fruit
structure will provide the patient with plenty of reward over the next 5 to 10 years.
GPCi - I would buy 1-2 bottles from this one and from 2003 ALEXANDER'S CROWN. seems like a great treat for Cab Sauv.
2005 LYTTON SPRINGS (Ridge Vineyards) Zinfandel - $39.85
WS = 88 ; A zesty spice bomb of a Zinfandel, with boysenberry, ripe cherry, licorice and toasted herb notes and long, deep flavors that build toward firm, cedary tannins on the finish. Best from 2008 through 2012. 18,000 cases made."
IWC = 92 ; 77% zinfandel, 17% petite sirah and 6% carignane).
Deep red. Sweet dark berry and kirsch scents are complicated by musky herbs, dried flowers and minerals, with a suave undercurrent of oak spice contributing sweetness. Powerful cassis and bitter cherry flavors are firmed by youthful tannins, which add grip to the finish. Possesses the focus, balance and concentration to repay a decade or more in the cellar."
GPCi - interesting reviews (88 vs. 92). too expensive for a Zin. that's a skip for me.
2005 GEYSERVILLE (Ridge Vineyards) - $47.75
IWC = 93 ; 77% zinfandel, 17% carignane and 6% petite sirah. (14.6% Alc)
“Dark red. Seductively perfumed aromas of raspberry, cherry, lavender and minerals lifted by exotic Asian spices. Seems almost light for zinfandel, with a silky texture and deep, sweet red and dark berry flavors. The tannins are nicely folded into the fruit, creeping gently out on the finish. A very impressive blend, with superb balance and flavor definition."
GPCi - Again, way too expensive for Zin. you can find outstanding Zin for less than $30.
Argentina
2005 FAMIGLIA BIANCHI CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Bodega Valentin Bianchi) - $13.95
WS=88 ; Has a solid structure, with coffee, plum and currant flavors backed by bittersweet cocoa on the finish. Drink now. (James Molesworth, May 15, 2007).
GPCi - had previous vintages. good day-to-day cab sauv. And it offers a great QPR.
2005 CATENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Bodegas Catena Zapata) - $19.95
GPCi - Catena is one of the safest bet in Argentina. They have great Malbec as well as Can Sauv. The 2005 vintage received a 90 rate by WS. I had previous vintages and it never failed. great value for a very good Cabernet. buy 3-12 bottles.
Chile
2005 Santa Rita MEDALLA REAL RESERVA ESPECIAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.90
Although there were no reviews at press time, the previous vintage was recently ranked #49 on the Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2007 and awarded a score of 91. A consistent overachiever, the 2005 promises to impress as well with its rich and concentrated flavours of blackcurrants, smoky oak and sweet herbs. Enjoy with roasted game meats such as venison.
GPCi - Had previous vintages of this Santa Rita offering. The 2005 vintage was highly rated by WS (90-93). great QPR ! buy 3-6 bottles.
2005 Montes Alpha CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $21.80
http://www.gismondionwine.com/ = 90 ; Twelve months in French oak and ten per cent merlot gives this old vine red all the gloss it needs. The nose is inviting showing black fruit, vanilla, spice and tobacco. Similar flavours penetrate the palate in a smooth jacket of warm red fruits with blueberry and smoky black licorice in the finish. The finish is long and persistent. (Anthony Gismondi, Oct. 2007)
GPCi - Another great offering from Chile. Montes Alpha has never failed me before - pretty much a sure bet. Expect lot of fruit and power/concentration. I'd buy 2-5 bottles.
Australia
2005 D'ARENBERG THE HIGH TRELLIS CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $20.95
McLaren Vale, South Australia
RP (by Jay Miller) = 91 : The 2005 The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 9 months in French and American oak. It is opaque purple-colored with an attractive perfume of cedar, spice box, cassis, plum, and black currant. This is followed by a medium-to full-bodied, structured wine with moderate tannin, ripe flavors, and lively acidity. It has 2-3 years of aging potential but can be enjoyed now. Drink 2007-2010. (Oct. 2007)
GPCi - another gem from d'Arenberg for a fair price. Although it is for a short time cellaring, you could enjoy this Cab without taking a loan from the bank... I'd buy 1-2 bottles.
2005 KILLERMAN’S RUN CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Kilikanoon) - $19.90
This ready-to-drink Cab from Kilikanoon uses hand-picked fruit from premium-vineyard parcels and is aged in new and used French barriques for two years before final blending. It's bright with loads of ripe cherry and cassis fruit and a hint of black olives. It's dry, medium-bodied, and well-balanced with soft tannins and bright acidity.
GPCi - I'm used to Killerman's full body/concentrated wines, so I'm a bit hesitant here... I'll skip this one this time...
2006 KAESLER CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $30.85
Barossa Valley, South Australia
RP (by Jay Miller) = 89-91: The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, which includes 5% Petit Verdot, was aged for 16 months in new and used French oak. Purple-colored, it offers aromas of cedar, smoke, black currants and blackberry. This leads to a full-bodied, structured wine with plenty of spicy black fruits, good balance, and a lengthy, pure finish. Give it 4-6 years to round out and drink it through 2021. (Oct. 2007)
GPCi - I think it's one of the first wines I've seen from the average 2006 vintage. However, getting such a great review in a challenging vintage is what real winemaking is all about... I'd buy 1-2 bottles, try one now and if it's that good, I'd buy 3 more for the cellar.
2004 SALTRAM OF BAROSSA MAMRE BROOK CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.90
JO =95 ; A stunningly varietal and perfumed cabernet whose highly aromatic perfume of cassis, violets and restrained cedar/vanilla oak are underpinned by minty nuances of crushed leaves. Full to medium in weight, its fine and pristine palate of crystalline cassis/plum flavours is tightly knit with sweet, creamy vanilla oak and supported by a chalky spine of powdery tannins. There’s suppleness and softness about this stylish and exceptionally varietal wine, with a lingering finish of star anise. drink 2024-2034
JH = 94 ; Strong blackcurrant fruit on the medium- to full-bodied palate; evident but balanced tannins. It's only in very good and relatively cool vintages that the Barossa is suited to cabernet. Drink now-2020.
GPCi - At least based on my previous experience with Saltram (both Shiarz and Cab Sauv), this is definitely my first choice of the release. great reviews, fair price, long time cellaring... no brainer... I'd buy 3-12 bottles.
2002 ROSEMOUNT TRADITIONAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON/MERLOT/PETIT VERDOT - $35.20
JH = 93 ; Dense colour; powerful, concentrated and compact; ripe but potent overtones; overall savoury and with Bordeaux overtones. Drink [to] 2015.
GPCi – according to Rosemount this wine will peak between 2005-2014 and will get to full development by 2019. I have previous vintages of that Rosemount series and I would buy this effort as well. Buy 1-2 bottles.
Spain
2005 HÉCULA (Bodegas Castano) - $13.85
IWC = 90 ; Dense, clean and brilliant color. Magnificent fruity display (plums, fig bread combined with red fruit), medium strong balsam aromas(mentholated) which are perfectly integrated. On the palate, it is smooth and silky with mature, polished tannins and a full, pleasant finish.
GPCi – in the past 3 vintages, Parker rewarded these wines with 90 or 91. the 2005 vintage in that region is as great as the 2004. I tried this great QPR wine at previous vintages and that's another one on the "have to buy" list. great day-to-day wine. Buy a case!
2001 BERONIA RESERVA - $17.55
http://www.winesofrioja.com/ : This wine is a blend of Tempranillo 89%, Graciano 5% and Mazuelo 6%. Commencing with a ripe, healthy grape and following a very careful process, Bodegas Beronia has achieved a harmonious wine and a fine balance of fruit aromas, spice sensations and vanilla evocations. Full, smooth and persistent. This elegant wine is the truest example of the Beronia classic range.
These are very carefully selected wines, with a minimum ageing of three years between oak cask and bottle, of which, at least one year is in the cask. Bodegas Beronia uses mixed American and French oak casks for the ageing process, and adjusts the time to the wine's requirements, which results in an elegant wine full of colour and fruit sensations.
A beautiful cherry red colour with ruby sparkles is evident and a bouquet that is balanced with fruit nuances, spiced with vanilla, tobacco and leather. The taste is smooth on first contact, and continues with to a persistent exit. This is a wine with velvety sensations, well balanced, with ripe fruit flavours combined with dry spices and a long finish.
GPCi - seems like a great Spanish wine from a very good vintage. The price, again, more than fair. seems like another one to the list.
Italy – Piedmont
2003 BAROLO (Parusso) - $47.75
WS = 92 ; This is very floral, with frest mushroom and fruit. Full-bodied, with layered, velvety tannins and plenty of fruit. Long and caressing. Well done for this vintage. Best after 2011 Match: Meats and meat sauses,grilled meat.
GPCi - There were many reviews about the "unbalanced 2003". WS gave it only 88. so to be able to produce a wine that good, again, it's up to the talent of the winemaker. The price is relatively fair for that caliber of a Barolo. I'd buy 1-4 bottles.
France
2004 DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE SAINT-JEAN VACQUEYRAS - $23.45
AC (Alazard Père & Fils)
RP = 90-92 : A sleeper of the vintage, this blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah is the most impressive wine I have tasted from Proprietor Alazard. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by sumptuous aromas of flowers, cherries, raspberries, black currants, pepper, and licorice. A silky, opulent texture and a huge finish suggest this blockbuster Vacqueyras will last for 4-5 years. … (Feb. 2006)
GPCi - I love muscular VACQUEYRAS and for under $25, I'd buy 3-6 bottles for day-to-day or even for the weekend's steaks.
2004 SALTRAM OF BAROSSA MAMRE BROOK CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.90
2005 HÉCULA (Bodegas Castano) - $13.85
2005 CATENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Bodegas Catena Zapata) - $19.95
GPCi top picks for up to $25
2005 Montes Alpha CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $21.80
2004 DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE SAINT-JEAN VACQUEYRAS - $23.45
US (California)
2004 DOMINUS (Dominus Estate) - $90.95
RP=94 ; The elegant, dark plum/purple/garnet-colored 2004 Dominus exhibits a big, sweet, cedary, roasted herb, mocha, black cherry liqueur, black currant, and earth-scented perfume. Medium to full-bodied with silky tannin as well as a luscious mouthfeel and finish, it should be more accessible in its youth than many of its predecessors, but easily last for two decades. Drink now – 2026.
GPCi - one of California's more thought after wines. 2004 was an outstanding vintage (Both WS and RP rewarded it with 95). expensive yet tempting because its cellaring potential (not an amazing GPCi = 5).
2004 DOMINUS ESTATE NAPANOOK (Dominus Estate) - $39.95
RP=91 ; The estate’s second wine is the 3,600-case cuvee of 2004 Napanook, a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. A strong effort, it offers a beautiful seductive nose of dried herbs, damp earth, sweet cherries, cedar, and spice box. Opulent, round, sexy, and delicious, it should be consumed during its first decade of life. Drink 2006-2016.
GPCi - Dominus "light"/"for the poor" has the same GPCi as its big brother. So if you insist on buying a California cab from this release and you have a cash-flow challenge, go with the Napanook.
2004 Cheteau Montelena CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $45.95
86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc
IWC = 89 ; Good ruby-red. Rich aromas of black cherry and menthol. Sweet, dense and lush for this bottling, with black cherry and cassis flavors. Much finer-grained than the 2003 bottling. Finishes with sweet tannins Match: Beef and steak.
GPCi - Another Californian hallmark... not tempting enough to buy... I would expect more from the 2004. That's a skip for me.
2003 ALEXANDER'S CROWN CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Rodney Strong) - $39.85
http://www.rodneystrong.com/ - The Crown enjoys the coolest growing conditions of our cabernet vineyards, a major factor in its distinctive flavor profile.
We grow 3 different clones of cabernet in Clough, Pleasanton and Positas series soils, all gravelly loams with slopes in almost every direction. Every change in soil, slope and direction provides opportunities for complexity, and in keeping with our philosophy, each unique section of the Crown vineyard is harvested separately, vinified separately and reassembled artfully
into the multifaceted cabernet that we’ve known for thirty years.
Tasting Notes: Blackberry, red currant and fresh earth are core flavors with the Crown, and are
accented by hints of mint and herbs. 19 1/2 months in primarily French oak adds
a subtle toasty spice component, and both rounds and softens this elegant, Bordeaux
styled Cabernet into a graceful expression of the varietal that will entreat you to enjoy
another glass. Drink this classic “collector’s” Cabernet Sauvignon over the next 4 to 8 years.
http://www.tastings.com/ = 90 ; Deep, saturated blackish-ruby hue. Reserved, minerally cassis nose. A firm entry leads a structured, full-bodied palate with a sturdy tannic grip. Well-structured with good intensity and balance. Will blossom with five- to ten-years of cellaring. (Jan. 3rd, 2007)
GPCi - I like the wines from Rodney Strong. Had a few in the past and they were very different in a good way. very consistent. it seems tempting with a good cellaring potential.
2004 ALDEN VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Rodney Strong) - $39.80
http://www.rodneystrong.com/ - Winemaker Rick Sayre’s many years of winemaking experience in Sonoma County allowed him to quickly identify the
potential of this site for greatness. After the first vintage in 1981, grapes from the Alden Vineyard have ended up in several
of our programs, including our Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Finally, starting in 1996, Rick decided to honor the individual
nature of this vineyard with a single vineyard bottling.
Tasting Notes: Forward dark berry flavors with accents of chocolate, earth and bold, spicy oak give this powerful wine a lot to offer for near term enjoyment, but classic mountain fruit
structure will provide the patient with plenty of reward over the next 5 to 10 years.
GPCi - I would buy 1-2 bottles from this one and from 2003 ALEXANDER'S CROWN. seems like a great treat for Cab Sauv.
2005 LYTTON SPRINGS (Ridge Vineyards) Zinfandel - $39.85
WS = 88 ; A zesty spice bomb of a Zinfandel, with boysenberry, ripe cherry, licorice and toasted herb notes and long, deep flavors that build toward firm, cedary tannins on the finish. Best from 2008 through 2012. 18,000 cases made."
IWC = 92 ; 77% zinfandel, 17% petite sirah and 6% carignane).
Deep red. Sweet dark berry and kirsch scents are complicated by musky herbs, dried flowers and minerals, with a suave undercurrent of oak spice contributing sweetness. Powerful cassis and bitter cherry flavors are firmed by youthful tannins, which add grip to the finish. Possesses the focus, balance and concentration to repay a decade or more in the cellar."
GPCi - interesting reviews (88 vs. 92). too expensive for a Zin. that's a skip for me.
2005 GEYSERVILLE (Ridge Vineyards) - $47.75
IWC = 93 ; 77% zinfandel, 17% carignane and 6% petite sirah. (14.6% Alc)
“Dark red. Seductively perfumed aromas of raspberry, cherry, lavender and minerals lifted by exotic Asian spices. Seems almost light for zinfandel, with a silky texture and deep, sweet red and dark berry flavors. The tannins are nicely folded into the fruit, creeping gently out on the finish. A very impressive blend, with superb balance and flavor definition."
GPCi - Again, way too expensive for Zin. you can find outstanding Zin for less than $30.
Argentina
2005 FAMIGLIA BIANCHI CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Bodega Valentin Bianchi) - $13.95
WS=88 ; Has a solid structure, with coffee, plum and currant flavors backed by bittersweet cocoa on the finish. Drink now. (James Molesworth, May 15, 2007).
GPCi - had previous vintages. good day-to-day cab sauv. And it offers a great QPR.
2005 CATENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Bodegas Catena Zapata) - $19.95
GPCi - Catena is one of the safest bet in Argentina. They have great Malbec as well as Can Sauv. The 2005 vintage received a 90 rate by WS. I had previous vintages and it never failed. great value for a very good Cabernet. buy 3-12 bottles.
Chile
2005 Santa Rita MEDALLA REAL RESERVA ESPECIAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.90
Although there were no reviews at press time, the previous vintage was recently ranked #49 on the Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2007 and awarded a score of 91. A consistent overachiever, the 2005 promises to impress as well with its rich and concentrated flavours of blackcurrants, smoky oak and sweet herbs. Enjoy with roasted game meats such as venison.
GPCi - Had previous vintages of this Santa Rita offering. The 2005 vintage was highly rated by WS (90-93). great QPR ! buy 3-6 bottles.
2005 Montes Alpha CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $21.80
http://www.gismondionwine.com/ = 90 ; Twelve months in French oak and ten per cent merlot gives this old vine red all the gloss it needs. The nose is inviting showing black fruit, vanilla, spice and tobacco. Similar flavours penetrate the palate in a smooth jacket of warm red fruits with blueberry and smoky black licorice in the finish. The finish is long and persistent. (Anthony Gismondi, Oct. 2007)
GPCi - Another great offering from Chile. Montes Alpha has never failed me before - pretty much a sure bet. Expect lot of fruit and power/concentration. I'd buy 2-5 bottles.
Australia
2005 D'ARENBERG THE HIGH TRELLIS CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $20.95
McLaren Vale, South Australia
RP (by Jay Miller) = 91 : The 2005 The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 9 months in French and American oak. It is opaque purple-colored with an attractive perfume of cedar, spice box, cassis, plum, and black currant. This is followed by a medium-to full-bodied, structured wine with moderate tannin, ripe flavors, and lively acidity. It has 2-3 years of aging potential but can be enjoyed now. Drink 2007-2010. (Oct. 2007)
GPCi - another gem from d'Arenberg for a fair price. Although it is for a short time cellaring, you could enjoy this Cab without taking a loan from the bank... I'd buy 1-2 bottles.
2005 KILLERMAN’S RUN CABERNET SAUVIGNON (Kilikanoon) - $19.90
This ready-to-drink Cab from Kilikanoon uses hand-picked fruit from premium-vineyard parcels and is aged in new and used French barriques for two years before final blending. It's bright with loads of ripe cherry and cassis fruit and a hint of black olives. It's dry, medium-bodied, and well-balanced with soft tannins and bright acidity.
GPCi - I'm used to Killerman's full body/concentrated wines, so I'm a bit hesitant here... I'll skip this one this time...
2006 KAESLER CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $30.85
Barossa Valley, South Australia
RP (by Jay Miller) = 89-91: The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, which includes 5% Petit Verdot, was aged for 16 months in new and used French oak. Purple-colored, it offers aromas of cedar, smoke, black currants and blackberry. This leads to a full-bodied, structured wine with plenty of spicy black fruits, good balance, and a lengthy, pure finish. Give it 4-6 years to round out and drink it through 2021. (Oct. 2007)
GPCi - I think it's one of the first wines I've seen from the average 2006 vintage. However, getting such a great review in a challenging vintage is what real winemaking is all about... I'd buy 1-2 bottles, try one now and if it's that good, I'd buy 3 more for the cellar.
2004 SALTRAM OF BAROSSA MAMRE BROOK CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.90
JO =95 ; A stunningly varietal and perfumed cabernet whose highly aromatic perfume of cassis, violets and restrained cedar/vanilla oak are underpinned by minty nuances of crushed leaves. Full to medium in weight, its fine and pristine palate of crystalline cassis/plum flavours is tightly knit with sweet, creamy vanilla oak and supported by a chalky spine of powdery tannins. There’s suppleness and softness about this stylish and exceptionally varietal wine, with a lingering finish of star anise. drink 2024-2034
JH = 94 ; Strong blackcurrant fruit on the medium- to full-bodied palate; evident but balanced tannins. It's only in very good and relatively cool vintages that the Barossa is suited to cabernet. Drink now-2020.
GPCi - At least based on my previous experience with Saltram (both Shiarz and Cab Sauv), this is definitely my first choice of the release. great reviews, fair price, long time cellaring... no brainer... I'd buy 3-12 bottles.
2002 ROSEMOUNT TRADITIONAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON/MERLOT/PETIT VERDOT - $35.20
JH = 93 ; Dense colour; powerful, concentrated and compact; ripe but potent overtones; overall savoury and with Bordeaux overtones. Drink [to] 2015.
GPCi – according to Rosemount this wine will peak between 2005-2014 and will get to full development by 2019. I have previous vintages of that Rosemount series and I would buy this effort as well. Buy 1-2 bottles.
Spain
2005 HÉCULA (Bodegas Castano) - $13.85
IWC = 90 ; Dense, clean and brilliant color. Magnificent fruity display (plums, fig bread combined with red fruit), medium strong balsam aromas(mentholated) which are perfectly integrated. On the palate, it is smooth and silky with mature, polished tannins and a full, pleasant finish.
GPCi – in the past 3 vintages, Parker rewarded these wines with 90 or 91. the 2005 vintage in that region is as great as the 2004. I tried this great QPR wine at previous vintages and that's another one on the "have to buy" list. great day-to-day wine. Buy a case!
2001 BERONIA RESERVA - $17.55
http://www.winesofrioja.com/ : This wine is a blend of Tempranillo 89%, Graciano 5% and Mazuelo 6%. Commencing with a ripe, healthy grape and following a very careful process, Bodegas Beronia has achieved a harmonious wine and a fine balance of fruit aromas, spice sensations and vanilla evocations. Full, smooth and persistent. This elegant wine is the truest example of the Beronia classic range.
These are very carefully selected wines, with a minimum ageing of three years between oak cask and bottle, of which, at least one year is in the cask. Bodegas Beronia uses mixed American and French oak casks for the ageing process, and adjusts the time to the wine's requirements, which results in an elegant wine full of colour and fruit sensations.
A beautiful cherry red colour with ruby sparkles is evident and a bouquet that is balanced with fruit nuances, spiced with vanilla, tobacco and leather. The taste is smooth on first contact, and continues with to a persistent exit. This is a wine with velvety sensations, well balanced, with ripe fruit flavours combined with dry spices and a long finish.
GPCi - seems like a great Spanish wine from a very good vintage. The price, again, more than fair. seems like another one to the list.
Italy – Piedmont
2003 BAROLO (Parusso) - $47.75
WS = 92 ; This is very floral, with frest mushroom and fruit. Full-bodied, with layered, velvety tannins and plenty of fruit. Long and caressing. Well done for this vintage. Best after 2011 Match: Meats and meat sauses,grilled meat.
GPCi - There were many reviews about the "unbalanced 2003". WS gave it only 88. so to be able to produce a wine that good, again, it's up to the talent of the winemaker. The price is relatively fair for that caliber of a Barolo. I'd buy 1-4 bottles.
France
2004 DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE SAINT-JEAN VACQUEYRAS - $23.45
AC (Alazard Père & Fils)
RP = 90-92 : A sleeper of the vintage, this blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah is the most impressive wine I have tasted from Proprietor Alazard. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by sumptuous aromas of flowers, cherries, raspberries, black currants, pepper, and licorice. A silky, opulent texture and a huge finish suggest this blockbuster Vacqueyras will last for 4-5 years. … (Feb. 2006)
GPCi - I love muscular VACQUEYRAS and for under $25, I'd buy 3-6 bottles for day-to-day or even for the weekend's steaks.
