Wednesday, November 19, 2008
GPCi for Nov 22nd 2008 release at the LCBO
Top picks for under $20:
2006 JUAN GIL MONASTRELL - $16.95
2005 VALLOBERA CRIANZA - $19.95
2007 PORCUPINE RIDGE SYRAH/VIOGNIER - $19.95
2006 RENÉ MURÉ GEWÜRZTRAMINER - $16.95
Top picks between $40 to $50:
2005 MONTECASTRO Y LLANAHERMOSA - $43.95
2005 PATRICK LESEC SÉLECTIONS CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE PIERRES DORÉES - $46.95
ARGENTINA
2005 GRAN LURTON GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $20.95
Mendoza (Bodega Jacques et Francois Lurton)
John Szabo = 90 : ... this wine has above average complexity and character for the money with notes of black fruit, herbs, leather, spice, tobacco and smoke. The tannins are still youthfull and vigorous, but adequately coated in fruit extract and supported by balanced alcohol and acid. Nicely made, solid and ever-reliable. Drink now-2014 with red meat on the grill. (Wine Access 'First In Line E-Report', June 7, 2008)
GPCi - A pretty safe bet from a very consistent producer in Argentina. What's not to like. I'd buy 2-6 bottles.
Chile
2006 MONTES ALPHA CHARDONNAY - $21.95
Casablanca Valley, Special Cuvée
The hallmarks of Montes Alpha's Chardonnay are its precision and zest. Sourced from the cool-climate Casablanca Valley that allows the grapes to retain their exquisite balance, this Chardonnay features classy aromas of fig, pear, toast and hazelnut. Ripe and rich, it is expertly structured by a zippy acidity that runs underneath it all. An excellent choice for grilled game bird or stuffed pork tenderloin.
GPCi - I had previous vintages and again, Montes is a very consistent producer from Chile. This is a great Chardonnay for more than a fair price for the quality. Stock up.
2006 MONTES ALPHA SYRAH - $22.95
Colchagua Valley, Apalta Vineyard
Josh Raynolds = 90 : Ruby-red. Energetic cherry-cola and raspberry aromas offer impressive clarity and a suave floral overtone. Sweet red and dark berry liqueur flavors are complemented by sexy vanillin oak and Asian spices, with supple tannins carrying through the finish. Emphatically modern and quite seductive.(International Wine Cellar, March/April 2008).
GPCi - You won't find too many Syrah at that level for that price. Excellent choice for day-to-day.
2004 ALTAÏR RED - $64.95
Cachapoal Valley
Altaïr is a joint venture between Laurent Dassault of Châteaux Dassault and La Fleur and the Chilean powerhouse, Viñas San Pedro. This is the fulfillment of Dassault's dream to find a vineyard where he could produce a 'grand cru' wine in Chile. This is only the second vintage for this wine but this collaboration is clearly paying off.
Jay Miller = 94 : ... Ripe black fruits persist through the pure finish. Cellar this beauty for 6-8 years and drink it through 2030. (www.erobertparker.com , June 2007).
GPCi - Expensive but worth it (it has a GPCi lower than 3). I would buy one bottle (John M, are you in for the try out?), try it and then decide if I like the style and invest in additional 3 bottles for the cellar.
2005 MAWSON'S HILL BLOCK 3 CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
Wrattonbully, South Australia (Yalumba Wine Company)
Joe Czerwinski = 90 : From the team at Yalumba, this is an excellent value, delivering dark, concentrated aromas and flavors of cassis and chocolate, leavened with just a touch of mint. Finishes long, with silky tannins that should allow it to age through 2012.(Wine Enthusiast, Feb. 1, 2008).
GPCi - I had the 2002 and 2003 and I think it is a very good chioce for day-to-day Cabernet Sauv.
2005 HAZYBLUR SHIRAZ - $77.95
Barossa Valley, South Australia
Hazyblur is one of those small exciting discoveries that is now being embraced by critics and winelovers the world over. Owner/winemaker Ross Trimboli makes four different Shirazes from four distinct regions. One of his finest is this beauty from the Barossa Valley.
Jay Miller = 95+ : ... purple-colored, it puts out an alluring nose of cedar, tobacco, pepper, bacon, blueberry, and a hint of white chocolate. This is followed by an opulent, chewy wine with mouth-filling flavors, serious depth, and a long, pure finish. It will continue unfolding with another 4-6 years in the cellar and drink well through 2025. (www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007).
GPCi - Very expensive and doesn't have a strong QPR (or GPCi) to go ahead and invest. That's a skip for me.
2004 HENSCHKE KEYNETON ESTATE EUPHONIUM - $56.95
Barossa, South Australia
The wines of Henschke are some of the most respected and sought-after from Australia. The critically acclaimed 2004 Keyneton Estate Euphonium is a blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Jay Miller = 92+ : ... purple-colored with fragrant aromas of toast, black cherry, scorched earth, pencil lead, and blueberry. Tightly knit but well balanced, it will need 5-7 years in the cellar to unwind and reveal its full potential. At that point, my score will look conservative. (www.erobertparker.com , Oct. 2007).
GPCi - as much as I like Henschke, I only got as far as the Euphonium level. I never had the higher Henschke series (can be several hundreds per bottle). This release has better options to spend the money, therefore, I'll skip it.
South Africa
2007 PORCUPINE RIDGE SYRAH/VIOGNIER - $19.95
WO Coastal Region, Limited Release (Boekenhoutskloof)
Boekenhoutskloof's star continues to rise and fans of their ever-popular Porcupine Ridge wines will not want to miss out on this Côte-Rôtie inspired blend. This Syrah, blended with a dash of Viognier, is an excellent value. It offers wonderful aromas of black fruit and spices as well as a perfumed floral note from the Viognier. Dry, rich and medium full-bodied, it's ready to drink with roast duck or game.
GPCi - I had the 2005 and 2006. Both excellent simple alternatives to the French Northern Rhone region's blend. Cote-Rotie for beginners. Very good QPR.
France (Alsace)
2006 RENÉ MURÉ GEWÜRZTRAMINER - $16.95
AC
The Muré family have been growing grapes in Alsace since 1648. Their wines always express the classic characteristics of each grape variety they use. This Gewürztraminer is sourced from 29-year-old vines and displays aromas of intense lychee and rose petals. It's dry, full-bodied and spicy. It will delight as an aperitif or pair it with exotic foods like lamb curry.
GPCi - When I see a Gewurz from Alsace for $17, I just buy. I'm sure I won't be disappointed. stock up...
France (Bordeaux )
2005 CHÂTEAU BEAUREGARD - $67.95
AC Pomerol
James Suckling = 92 : Has complex aromas of ripe blackberry, green olive and sweet tobacco, with Indian spices. Full-bodied, supersilky and refined. Not a huge wine, but everything is in harmony. Best after 2012. (www.winespectator.com , March 31, 2008).
GPCi - There aren't many 2005 Pomerol that received 92 by WS and cost $68. If you like Bordeaux and you collect wine, this one is for the cellar (for 10+ years). Worth the investment.
2005 CHÂTEAU FOMBRAUGE - $58
AC Saint-Émillion Grand Cru
(Bernard Margrez)
RP = 90 : An in-your-face style of wine, the 2005 Fombrauge (the largest vineyard in St.-Emilion) is a blend of 77% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The inky/purple color is followed by a big, sweet nose of chocolate fudge, jammy black cherries, blackberries, smoke, and pain grille. This chewy, powerful, decadent St.-Emilion is a modern-styled, impressively endowed, pure, intense wine. It is another brilliant example of winemaking from proprietor Bernard Magrez. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020+. (www.erobertparker.com , April 2008).
GPCi - Another jam from the 2005 vintage and a great candidate for the cellar. worth the investment.
2005 CHÂTEAU GAUDIN - $36.95
AC Pauillac
Alison Lowson : Chateau Gaudin Pauillac 2005 is a step up in price and in class. ... This is a powerful wine with blackcurrant and ripe fruit aromas, the wine is oak barrel aged and this comes through on the palate. The tannins are strong which suggests that this wine will continue to improve for many years to come. Drink now or stash away in the wine cellar/cupboard and watch its value soar ... Will benefit greatly if decanted about an hour before drinking. (http://www.perthshireadvertiser.co.uk/, July 4, 2008).
GPCi - I read that this wine has 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 2.5% Petit Verdot and 2.5% Carmenere. I would buy one bottle and if I really like the style I would buy 6-12 bottles.
2005 CHÂTEAU PATACHE D'AUX CUVÉE FLORA - $50.95
AC Médoc
James Suckling = 91 : Sweet tobacco, plum and a hint of toasty oak on the nose turns to Indian spices. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Super well-crafted. A special selection from this estate. Best after 2012. (www.winespectator.com, Web Only, 2008).
GPCi - another one from the left bank with what seem to be a good QPR. Try one and decide whether you to add few more 2005 to the cellar.
France (Rhone South)
2004 DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE SAINT-JEAN VACQUEYRAS - $25.95
AC (Le Parc, Alazard Père et 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. Hopefully, it will be bottled without excessive filtration. (www.erobertparker.com , Feb. 2006).
GPCi - if it was in a different release, I would advise to buy at least 3 bottles. However, there are so many great alternatives this release and limited budget, that you need to make sacrifice...
2005 PATRICK LESEC SÉLECTIONS CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE PIERRES DORÉES - $46.95
AC
RP = 92+ : An impressive Chateauneuf du Pape is the 2005 Les Pierres Dorees. Made from 75% Grenache and 25% Mourvedre, this wine displays a much more animal personality, with notes of black truffle, blueberry, damp earth, asphalt, and licorice. A structured, masculine wine very much in keeping with the style of the vintage, it is full-bodied, concentrated, and needs 3-4 years of bottle age and should evolve nicely for 15 or more years. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007).
GPCi - I'm stocking up my 2005 CdP. It's a great vintage and if from whatever crazy reason I'll decide one day to sell some of these wines, their value will be much higher. I'd buy 3-4 bottles.
2006 LE VIEUX DONJON CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE - $61.95
AC
The legendary southern Rhône is known for many wines, but the king of the castle is without question Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Le Vieux Donjon is a top-tier traditionalist producer and its 2006 Châteauneuf has collected scores in the 90s from both Wine Spectator and Robert Parker Jr.
RP = 90-92+ : Vieux Donjon's 2006 Chateauneuf-du-Pape is a powerful, seriously-endowed effort for the vintage,... Potentially one of the longest lived wines of the vintage, it will require 4-5 years of bottle age, and should evolve for two decades. (www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007).
GPCi - since the 2005 was so successful and got everyone's attention (Wine of the year, 95 by wine critics etc.), the price of the 2006 is higher now. If you bought previous years of this excellent CdP, you have to buy this one for the vertical.
Italy (Tuscany)
GPCi - all of the Chianti Classico Riserva wines bellow are at the higher-end of the Chianti scale. I find it too expensive for what it delivers, but it's just because of the preference in wine style that I personally have. If I need to choose from the three wines below, I'll go with the 2004 RUFFINO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA DUCALE ORO.
2003 CENNATOIO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA - $31.95
DOCG (Alessi Leandro & Gabriella)
A Chianti that needs a little time to 'unpack' all its flavours (3-5 years), but the wait will be well worth it. Aromas feature black cherry, sandalwood, leather and licorice. Dry with a good fruit intensity beneath the grippy tannins. Medium full-bodied with a substantial finish. If you want to enjoy it tonight, decant it for 2-3 hours and match it with a rare steak. (VINTAGES panel, Sept. 2008)
2004 DA VINCI CHIANTI RESERVA - $35.95
DOCG
(Cantine Leonardo da Vinci)
James Suckling = 91 : A good vein of black fruit runs through this red, with hints of violet and mineral. Full-bodied and well-balanced, with fine, silky tannins and a long, superclean finish. An outstanding Chianti. Drink now. (www.winespectator.com , Oct 10, 2007)
2004 RUFFINO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA DUCALE ORO - $43.95
DOCG
Antonio Galloni = 91 : The 2004 Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale Oro remains the bellwether wine from this historic property. It is a layered, full-bodied wine with attractive notes of tobacco, sweet red cherries, wild herbs and toasted oak. The wine's density, persistence and complexity make it one of the better versions in recent memory. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2022. (www.erobertparker.com , June 2008)
Italy (Veneto)
2004 MONTE ZOVO CA'LINVERNO - $21.95
IGT Rosso Veronese
For this wine, the producer adds a touch of Cabernet and Croatina to the local Corvina and Rondinella. Since the first two grapes are not allowed under the Veneto DOC system, the producer released the wine under the IGT (Indicazione geografica tipica) designation. Rich, full-bodied and velvety, this modern-styled red is filled with flavours of plum, spice and smoke. Try with mature cheeses.
GPCi - An IGT full body wine with such a supportive review for $22 is very unusual (all Super Tuscan wines are IGT as a comparison and they cost at least 3 times more if not 10). Maybe because it's from Veneto and not Tuscany. Definitely worth checking this interesting blend.
Spain
2006 JUAN GIL MONASTRELL - $16.95
DO Jumilla
Jay Miller = 91 : The 2006 Juan Gil is also 100% Monastrell but aged for 12 months in French and American oak. It was sourced from an estate vineyard with 45 years of age. This purple-colored wine offers superb aromatics of wood smoke, damp earth, violets, and blueberry pie. Layered, succulent, and long, it will evolve for another 2-3 years and be at its best from 2010 to 2018. (www.erobertparker.com, Aug. 2008).
GPCi - one of my release picks. Again from Jumilla. An excellent QPR and GPCi. If you're into Monastrell (aka Mourvèdre), don't hesitate to buy a case.
2005 MONTECASTRO Y LLANAHERMOSA - $43.95
DO Ribera del Duero
Jay Miller = 93 : Montecastro is a new estate founded in 2001. The 2005 Montecastro is 100% Tempranillo aged in barrique. Purple-colored, it has an alluring bouquet of wood smoke, toast, crushed stone, violets, black raspberry, and blackberry. This is followed by an opulent, full-flavored wine with gobs of spicy fruit, excellent integration of oak, tannin, and acidity, and 4-6 years of aging potential. It will be at its best between 2013 and 2025. (www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2008).
GPCi - A great vintage in Ribera del Duero. Great review. Excellent GPCi (~2.5). I'd buy 2-3 bottles for the cellar.
2005 VALLOBERA CRIANZA - $19.95
DOCa Rioja (Bodegas San Pedro)
Jay Miller = 90 : The 2005 Crianza is also 100% Tempranillo and spent 14 months in French and American oak. Purple-colored, it offers notes of wood smoke, damp earth, spice box, and black cherry. Medium-bodied and supple textured, the wine flows smoothly across the palate with a sense of elegance. There is enough structure to support several more years of bottle age. Drink this outstanding value in Rioja through 2020.(www.erobertparker.com , Feb. 2008).
GPCi - another winner for this release. I'd buy 3-12 bottles.
2004 ALION - $80.95
DO Ribera del Duero
Bodegas Alion was started by the renowned estate of Vega Sicilia in 1991. Vega Sicilia was for decades crafting brilliant and ageworthy wines before others finally discovered Ribera del Duero.
Jay Miller = 96 : ... a full-bodied, rich, opulent, wine with incipient complexity, and notes of licorice, mocha, and espresso emerging on the palate. The lengthy finish is pure and persistent. Give it 3-5 years in the cellar and drink it through 2025. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2008).
GPCi - Alion in Ribera del Duero is like the first-growth/supper-second in Bordeaux. This is as good as it gets in Spain (hence the 96 by JM). If you respect your cellar, you need one of these in it... :)
1998 HERMANOS PECIÑA SEÑORÍO DE P. PECIÑA GRAN RESERVA - $55.95
DOCa Rioja
Why cellar it yourself when the wineries will do it for you? With Spanish wines, such as this Gran Reserva, that is exactly what you get. Made only in the very best years, these wines spend substantial time in both barrel and bottle before release. When they are released, the results are, as the review says below, "flat-out delicious".
Josh Raynolds = 93 : ... suave, flat-out delicious wine, which possesses outstanding depth and complexity and finishes with haunting floral echoes. (International Wine Cellar, July/Aug. 2007).
GPCi - another excellent wine. 10 years old. If you're celebrating anything special in the near future, then buy this ready-to-drink wine. Otherwise, spend your money in other great wines from this release.
2006 JUAN GIL MONASTRELL - $16.95
2005 VALLOBERA CRIANZA - $19.95
2007 PORCUPINE RIDGE SYRAH/VIOGNIER - $19.95
2006 RENÉ MURÉ GEWÜRZTRAMINER - $16.95
Top picks between $40 to $50:
2005 MONTECASTRO Y LLANAHERMOSA - $43.95
2005 PATRICK LESEC SÉLECTIONS CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE PIERRES DORÉES - $46.95
ARGENTINA
2005 GRAN LURTON GRAN RESERVA CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $20.95
Mendoza (Bodega Jacques et Francois Lurton)
John Szabo = 90 : ... this wine has above average complexity and character for the money with notes of black fruit, herbs, leather, spice, tobacco and smoke. The tannins are still youthfull and vigorous, but adequately coated in fruit extract and supported by balanced alcohol and acid. Nicely made, solid and ever-reliable. Drink now-2014 with red meat on the grill. (Wine Access 'First In Line E-Report', June 7, 2008)
GPCi - A pretty safe bet from a very consistent producer in Argentina. What's not to like. I'd buy 2-6 bottles.
Chile
2006 MONTES ALPHA CHARDONNAY - $21.95
Casablanca Valley, Special Cuvée
The hallmarks of Montes Alpha's Chardonnay are its precision and zest. Sourced from the cool-climate Casablanca Valley that allows the grapes to retain their exquisite balance, this Chardonnay features classy aromas of fig, pear, toast and hazelnut. Ripe and rich, it is expertly structured by a zippy acidity that runs underneath it all. An excellent choice for grilled game bird or stuffed pork tenderloin.
GPCi - I had previous vintages and again, Montes is a very consistent producer from Chile. This is a great Chardonnay for more than a fair price for the quality. Stock up.
2006 MONTES ALPHA SYRAH - $22.95
Colchagua Valley, Apalta Vineyard
Josh Raynolds = 90 : Ruby-red. Energetic cherry-cola and raspberry aromas offer impressive clarity and a suave floral overtone. Sweet red and dark berry liqueur flavors are complemented by sexy vanillin oak and Asian spices, with supple tannins carrying through the finish. Emphatically modern and quite seductive.(International Wine Cellar, March/April 2008).
GPCi - You won't find too many Syrah at that level for that price. Excellent choice for day-to-day.
2004 ALTAÏR RED - $64.95
Cachapoal Valley
Altaïr is a joint venture between Laurent Dassault of Châteaux Dassault and La Fleur and the Chilean powerhouse, Viñas San Pedro. This is the fulfillment of Dassault's dream to find a vineyard where he could produce a 'grand cru' wine in Chile. This is only the second vintage for this wine but this collaboration is clearly paying off.
Jay Miller = 94 : ... Ripe black fruits persist through the pure finish. Cellar this beauty for 6-8 years and drink it through 2030. (www.erobertparker.com , June 2007).
GPCi - Expensive but worth it (it has a GPCi lower than 3). I would buy one bottle (John M, are you in for the try out?), try it and then decide if I like the style and invest in additional 3 bottles for the cellar.
2005 MAWSON'S HILL BLOCK 3 CABERNET SAUVIGNON - $19.95
Wrattonbully, South Australia (Yalumba Wine Company)
Joe Czerwinski = 90 : From the team at Yalumba, this is an excellent value, delivering dark, concentrated aromas and flavors of cassis and chocolate, leavened with just a touch of mint. Finishes long, with silky tannins that should allow it to age through 2012.(Wine Enthusiast, Feb. 1, 2008).
GPCi - I had the 2002 and 2003 and I think it is a very good chioce for day-to-day Cabernet Sauv.
2005 HAZYBLUR SHIRAZ - $77.95
Barossa Valley, South Australia
Hazyblur is one of those small exciting discoveries that is now being embraced by critics and winelovers the world over. Owner/winemaker Ross Trimboli makes four different Shirazes from four distinct regions. One of his finest is this beauty from the Barossa Valley.
Jay Miller = 95+ : ... purple-colored, it puts out an alluring nose of cedar, tobacco, pepper, bacon, blueberry, and a hint of white chocolate. This is followed by an opulent, chewy wine with mouth-filling flavors, serious depth, and a long, pure finish. It will continue unfolding with another 4-6 years in the cellar and drink well through 2025. (www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007).
GPCi - Very expensive and doesn't have a strong QPR (or GPCi) to go ahead and invest. That's a skip for me.
2004 HENSCHKE KEYNETON ESTATE EUPHONIUM - $56.95
Barossa, South Australia
The wines of Henschke are some of the most respected and sought-after from Australia. The critically acclaimed 2004 Keyneton Estate Euphonium is a blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Jay Miller = 92+ : ... purple-colored with fragrant aromas of toast, black cherry, scorched earth, pencil lead, and blueberry. Tightly knit but well balanced, it will need 5-7 years in the cellar to unwind and reveal its full potential. At that point, my score will look conservative. (www.erobertparker.com , Oct. 2007).
GPCi - as much as I like Henschke, I only got as far as the Euphonium level. I never had the higher Henschke series (can be several hundreds per bottle). This release has better options to spend the money, therefore, I'll skip it.
South Africa
2007 PORCUPINE RIDGE SYRAH/VIOGNIER - $19.95
WO Coastal Region, Limited Release (Boekenhoutskloof)
Boekenhoutskloof's star continues to rise and fans of their ever-popular Porcupine Ridge wines will not want to miss out on this Côte-Rôtie inspired blend. This Syrah, blended with a dash of Viognier, is an excellent value. It offers wonderful aromas of black fruit and spices as well as a perfumed floral note from the Viognier. Dry, rich and medium full-bodied, it's ready to drink with roast duck or game.
GPCi - I had the 2005 and 2006. Both excellent simple alternatives to the French Northern Rhone region's blend. Cote-Rotie for beginners. Very good QPR.
France (Alsace)
2006 RENÉ MURÉ GEWÜRZTRAMINER - $16.95
AC
The Muré family have been growing grapes in Alsace since 1648. Their wines always express the classic characteristics of each grape variety they use. This Gewürztraminer is sourced from 29-year-old vines and displays aromas of intense lychee and rose petals. It's dry, full-bodied and spicy. It will delight as an aperitif or pair it with exotic foods like lamb curry.
GPCi - When I see a Gewurz from Alsace for $17, I just buy. I'm sure I won't be disappointed. stock up...
France (Bordeaux )
2005 CHÂTEAU BEAUREGARD - $67.95
AC Pomerol
James Suckling = 92 : Has complex aromas of ripe blackberry, green olive and sweet tobacco, with Indian spices. Full-bodied, supersilky and refined. Not a huge wine, but everything is in harmony. Best after 2012. (www.winespectator.com , March 31, 2008).
GPCi - There aren't many 2005 Pomerol that received 92 by WS and cost $68. If you like Bordeaux and you collect wine, this one is for the cellar (for 10+ years). Worth the investment.
2005 CHÂTEAU FOMBRAUGE - $58
AC Saint-Émillion Grand Cru
(Bernard Margrez)
RP = 90 : An in-your-face style of wine, the 2005 Fombrauge (the largest vineyard in St.-Emilion) is a blend of 77% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The inky/purple color is followed by a big, sweet nose of chocolate fudge, jammy black cherries, blackberries, smoke, and pain grille. This chewy, powerful, decadent St.-Emilion is a modern-styled, impressively endowed, pure, intense wine. It is another brilliant example of winemaking from proprietor Bernard Magrez. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020+. (www.erobertparker.com , April 2008).
GPCi - Another jam from the 2005 vintage and a great candidate for the cellar. worth the investment.
2005 CHÂTEAU GAUDIN - $36.95
AC Pauillac
Alison Lowson : Chateau Gaudin Pauillac 2005 is a step up in price and in class. ... This is a powerful wine with blackcurrant and ripe fruit aromas, the wine is oak barrel aged and this comes through on the palate. The tannins are strong which suggests that this wine will continue to improve for many years to come. Drink now or stash away in the wine cellar/cupboard and watch its value soar ... Will benefit greatly if decanted about an hour before drinking. (http://www.perthshireadvertiser.co.uk/, July 4, 2008).
GPCi - I read that this wine has 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 2.5% Petit Verdot and 2.5% Carmenere. I would buy one bottle and if I really like the style I would buy 6-12 bottles.
2005 CHÂTEAU PATACHE D'AUX CUVÉE FLORA - $50.95
AC Médoc
James Suckling = 91 : Sweet tobacco, plum and a hint of toasty oak on the nose turns to Indian spices. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Super well-crafted. A special selection from this estate. Best after 2012. (www.winespectator.com, Web Only, 2008).
GPCi - another one from the left bank with what seem to be a good QPR. Try one and decide whether you to add few more 2005 to the cellar.
France (Rhone South)
2004 DOMAINE DE LA COLLINE SAINT-JEAN VACQUEYRAS - $25.95
AC (Le Parc, Alazard Père et 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. Hopefully, it will be bottled without excessive filtration. (www.erobertparker.com , Feb. 2006).
GPCi - if it was in a different release, I would advise to buy at least 3 bottles. However, there are so many great alternatives this release and limited budget, that you need to make sacrifice...
2005 PATRICK LESEC SÉLECTIONS CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE PIERRES DORÉES - $46.95
AC
RP = 92+ : An impressive Chateauneuf du Pape is the 2005 Les Pierres Dorees. Made from 75% Grenache and 25% Mourvedre, this wine displays a much more animal personality, with notes of black truffle, blueberry, damp earth, asphalt, and licorice. A structured, masculine wine very much in keeping with the style of the vintage, it is full-bodied, concentrated, and needs 3-4 years of bottle age and should evolve nicely for 15 or more years. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007).
GPCi - I'm stocking up my 2005 CdP. It's a great vintage and if from whatever crazy reason I'll decide one day to sell some of these wines, their value will be much higher. I'd buy 3-4 bottles.
2006 LE VIEUX DONJON CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE - $61.95
AC
The legendary southern Rhône is known for many wines, but the king of the castle is without question Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Le Vieux Donjon is a top-tier traditionalist producer and its 2006 Châteauneuf has collected scores in the 90s from both Wine Spectator and Robert Parker Jr.
RP = 90-92+ : Vieux Donjon's 2006 Chateauneuf-du-Pape is a powerful, seriously-endowed effort for the vintage,... Potentially one of the longest lived wines of the vintage, it will require 4-5 years of bottle age, and should evolve for two decades. (www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2007).
GPCi - since the 2005 was so successful and got everyone's attention (Wine of the year, 95 by wine critics etc.), the price of the 2006 is higher now. If you bought previous years of this excellent CdP, you have to buy this one for the vertical.
Italy (Tuscany)
GPCi - all of the Chianti Classico Riserva wines bellow are at the higher-end of the Chianti scale. I find it too expensive for what it delivers, but it's just because of the preference in wine style that I personally have. If I need to choose from the three wines below, I'll go with the 2004 RUFFINO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA DUCALE ORO.
2003 CENNATOIO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA - $31.95
DOCG (Alessi Leandro & Gabriella)
A Chianti that needs a little time to 'unpack' all its flavours (3-5 years), but the wait will be well worth it. Aromas feature black cherry, sandalwood, leather and licorice. Dry with a good fruit intensity beneath the grippy tannins. Medium full-bodied with a substantial finish. If you want to enjoy it tonight, decant it for 2-3 hours and match it with a rare steak. (VINTAGES panel, Sept. 2008)
2004 DA VINCI CHIANTI RESERVA - $35.95
DOCG
(Cantine Leonardo da Vinci)
James Suckling = 91 : A good vein of black fruit runs through this red, with hints of violet and mineral. Full-bodied and well-balanced, with fine, silky tannins and a long, superclean finish. An outstanding Chianti. Drink now. (www.winespectator.com , Oct 10, 2007)
2004 RUFFINO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA DUCALE ORO - $43.95
DOCG
Antonio Galloni = 91 : The 2004 Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale Oro remains the bellwether wine from this historic property. It is a layered, full-bodied wine with attractive notes of tobacco, sweet red cherries, wild herbs and toasted oak. The wine's density, persistence and complexity make it one of the better versions in recent memory. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2022. (www.erobertparker.com , June 2008)
Italy (Veneto)
2004 MONTE ZOVO CA'LINVERNO - $21.95
IGT Rosso Veronese
For this wine, the producer adds a touch of Cabernet and Croatina to the local Corvina and Rondinella. Since the first two grapes are not allowed under the Veneto DOC system, the producer released the wine under the IGT (Indicazione geografica tipica) designation. Rich, full-bodied and velvety, this modern-styled red is filled with flavours of plum, spice and smoke. Try with mature cheeses.
GPCi - An IGT full body wine with such a supportive review for $22 is very unusual (all Super Tuscan wines are IGT as a comparison and they cost at least 3 times more if not 10). Maybe because it's from Veneto and not Tuscany. Definitely worth checking this interesting blend.
Spain
2006 JUAN GIL MONASTRELL - $16.95
DO Jumilla
Jay Miller = 91 : The 2006 Juan Gil is also 100% Monastrell but aged for 12 months in French and American oak. It was sourced from an estate vineyard with 45 years of age. This purple-colored wine offers superb aromatics of wood smoke, damp earth, violets, and blueberry pie. Layered, succulent, and long, it will evolve for another 2-3 years and be at its best from 2010 to 2018. (www.erobertparker.com, Aug. 2008).
GPCi - one of my release picks. Again from Jumilla. An excellent QPR and GPCi. If you're into Monastrell (aka Mourvèdre), don't hesitate to buy a case.
2005 MONTECASTRO Y LLANAHERMOSA - $43.95
DO Ribera del Duero
Jay Miller = 93 : Montecastro is a new estate founded in 2001. The 2005 Montecastro is 100% Tempranillo aged in barrique. Purple-colored, it has an alluring bouquet of wood smoke, toast, crushed stone, violets, black raspberry, and blackberry. This is followed by an opulent, full-flavored wine with gobs of spicy fruit, excellent integration of oak, tannin, and acidity, and 4-6 years of aging potential. It will be at its best between 2013 and 2025. (www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2008).
GPCi - A great vintage in Ribera del Duero. Great review. Excellent GPCi (~2.5). I'd buy 2-3 bottles for the cellar.
2005 VALLOBERA CRIANZA - $19.95
DOCa Rioja (Bodegas San Pedro)
Jay Miller = 90 : The 2005 Crianza is also 100% Tempranillo and spent 14 months in French and American oak. Purple-colored, it offers notes of wood smoke, damp earth, spice box, and black cherry. Medium-bodied and supple textured, the wine flows smoothly across the palate with a sense of elegance. There is enough structure to support several more years of bottle age. Drink this outstanding value in Rioja through 2020.(www.erobertparker.com , Feb. 2008).
GPCi - another winner for this release. I'd buy 3-12 bottles.
2004 ALION - $80.95
DO Ribera del Duero
Bodegas Alion was started by the renowned estate of Vega Sicilia in 1991. Vega Sicilia was for decades crafting brilliant and ageworthy wines before others finally discovered Ribera del Duero.
Jay Miller = 96 : ... a full-bodied, rich, opulent, wine with incipient complexity, and notes of licorice, mocha, and espresso emerging on the palate. The lengthy finish is pure and persistent. Give it 3-5 years in the cellar and drink it through 2025. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Feb. 2008).
GPCi - Alion in Ribera del Duero is like the first-growth/supper-second in Bordeaux. This is as good as it gets in Spain (hence the 96 by JM). If you respect your cellar, you need one of these in it... :)
1998 HERMANOS PECIÑA SEÑORÍO DE P. PECIÑA GRAN RESERVA - $55.95
DOCa Rioja
Why cellar it yourself when the wineries will do it for you? With Spanish wines, such as this Gran Reserva, that is exactly what you get. Made only in the very best years, these wines spend substantial time in both barrel and bottle before release. When they are released, the results are, as the review says below, "flat-out delicious".
Josh Raynolds = 93 : ... suave, flat-out delicious wine, which possesses outstanding depth and complexity and finishes with haunting floral echoes. (International Wine Cellar, July/Aug. 2007).
GPCi - another excellent wine. 10 years old. If you're celebrating anything special in the near future, then buy this ready-to-drink wine. Otherwise, spend your money in other great wines from this release.
