by Ray Johnson | Jul 21, 2010 | Albariño, 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...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 21, 2010 | Carignane, Grenache, Priorat, Spain
Celler Mas Doix, Priorat, Salanques 2006 The nose greets you with a fair waft of oak, sweet with jammy fruit and brown spices. In the mouth this wine is dense yet supple, with ripe tannins and lots of jammy black fruit – quite yummy. The Salanques estate sits at...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 20, 2010 | Australia, South Australia, Sparkling Dry, Syrah
Mollydooker, South Australia, Goose Bumps, Sparkling Shiraz 2006 In the nose the oak makes a statement with sweet black fruit. The texture in the mouth is masterful, actually velvety displaying the flavors of blackberry, coffee and freshly-split oak. Proprietors Sarah...