by Ray Johnson | Feb 8, 2010 | Bordeaux, Cotes de Castillon, France, Merlot
Chateau Puy Arnaud, Cotes de Castillon 2005 The oak makes its presence known when you smell this wine. In the mouth the full ripeness of the fruit comes through, with ample concentration and plenty of structure – a solid value in $10 Bordeaux. The grape behind...
by Ray Johnson | Feb 8, 2010 | Cabernet Franc, Chinon, France, Loire Valley
Domaine de Beausejour, Chinon 2007 This wine is riper than previous incarnations, showing black fruit beyond the capsicum. In the mouth it is green and gripping but tolerable. 100% Cab Franc with stainless ferment; Gerard et David Chauveau in Panzoult 12.5% $13.59 at...
by Ray Johnson | Feb 8, 2010 | Barbera, Barbera d'Alba, Italy, Piemonte
Andrea Oberto, Barbera d’Alba DOC 2008 The nose features tar as well as some bound up sulfur. In the mouth it is immensely tart, screaming with acidity and a little leaner than hoped for. This wine doesn’t show nearly as nice as previous vintages;...
by Ray Johnson | Feb 8, 2010 | Australia, McLaren Vale, South Australia, Syrah
d’Arenberg, McLaren Vale, The Footbolt, Shiraz 2005 The nose features liquer-like character, a concentration of candied black fruit, a hint of eucalyptus and some subtle volatility. In the mouth the fruit is in force, the feel is silky and a thread of acidity...
by Ray Johnson | Feb 8, 2010 | Cotes du Rhone, Cotes du Rhone Villages, France, Grenache, Rhône, Syrah
Perrin & Fils, Cotes du Rhone Villages 2007 The nose features sweet berries and black pepper. In the mouth it quite structured with medium weight; it’s crying out for red meat – nice value from the Rhone. This wine is 50% Syrah and 50% Grenache. Mis en...
