by Ray Johnson | Jul 26, 2010 | Austria, Gruner Veltliner, Niederosterreich
Berger, Niederosterreich, Gruner Veltliner 2009 The nose is a bit flinty, with a sprinkling of green herbs. In the mouth it is crisp and refreshing – nice. This wine has been a consistent value over the vintages and notice that you still get a super size for...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 22, 2010 | California, Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County
Hartford Court, Russian River, Four Hearts Vineyards, Chardonnay 2007 This is a large Chardonnay, big, rich and mouth-filling. There’s plenty of butter and oak to please those in search of a full-on California Chard yet there is also a core of fruit and acidity...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 21, 2010 | Albarino, Minho, Moncao, Portugal, Vinho Verde
Fâmega, Vinho Verde, Vinho Branco 2009 The nose speaks of lemon and lemon zest. In the mouth it is zippy with acidity, light-bodied and tart with a light bit of sparkle, further enhancing its refreshing character – very nice. This is the first bottle I’ve...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 21, 2010 | Spain, Tempranillo, Toro
Finca Sobreno, Toro 2005 This vintage is a nice step up from the previous. The nose shows a mix of fresh and cooked red fruits, with a sweet overlay of vanilla. In the mouth it is approachable and oaky with structure that is obvious but not overpowering. The acidity...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 21, 2010 | Spain, Tempranillo, Toro
Vetus, Toro 2005 There’s a definite sense of Port in the nose, combining liqueur-like berry essence and a bit of spirit. In the mouth the berry flavors are vibrant yet this wine is still quite tight and would benefit from a long sleep in the cellar. The grape...
