Ray Johnson’s Wine Blog

Cabernet Aussie-Style

Posted in December 10th, 2007

by Ray in Australia, Barossa Valley, Coonawarra, Margaret River, South Australia, Western Australia

Yalumba Coonawarra The Menzies Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
The 2002 smelled of cigar box, tobacco, light green pepper and a hint of pickle. In the mouth there was ample acidity which carriesd the juicy red flavors for a long time. Sourced from their Menzies Vineyard. Aged in French and US oak. Winemaker Peter Gambetta 13.5% $32.49 at [...]

Bordeaux Grapes in the New World

Posted in December 7th, 2007

by Ray in Australia, Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Margaret River, Merlot, New Zealand, Petit Verdot, South Australia, Western Australia

Wynns Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Mild green elements add a nice complexity to the cherry fruit. This is a light-bodied Cabernet with a complementary level of acidity. All Cabernet aged in new and used French and US oak. Winemaker Sue Hodder 13.5% $12.99 at K&L Wynns
Pirramimma McLaren Vale Petit Verdot 2003
This wine is quite refined, showing [...]

A Western Autralia Cape

Posted in December 7th, 2007

by Ray in Australia, Chardonnay, Margaret River, Western Australia

Cape Mentelle Margaret River Chardonnay 2005
Loads of toasty oak from the nose to the palate with enough acidity to maintain a refreshing character. Fermented in French oak and aged 9 months on the lees. P&B in Margaret River 14.5% $19.49 at Bottle Barn Cape Mentelle