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The weather has been warming up lately in Southern California, with the sun shining nice and bright almost everyday. What to drink under the sun? A nice cool bottle of California Chardonnay! Let’s go Whites!
2007 Sonoma Loeb Chardonnay, Sonoma County
Popped and poured. The chardonnay displays a light golden hue – almost clear on the rims. Wow! Nose explodes with honey, ripe pineapples, fresh honeydew melon, crisp Washington red apples; hints of vanilla and magnolia flowers. I really can’t get enough of this aroma! Truly in your face white fruit. Very little oak, if any; the more I smell it, the more I am convinced that the apples truly dominate this nose. Wow. Let’s see how it works the palate. Very different on the palate; apples still present, but to be honest, I’m really not getting anything else. After about 20 minutes in the glass, I get hints of minerals and pineapples on the finish. A medium oaked wine, the tannins are still present yet dissipated throughout the night. Quite disappointed on the palate to be honest. The nose had me expecting a lot. To try again the second night. Will report back.
Second night, nose is still quite explosive. Apples and pineapples with hints of floral notes still sing beautifully! If I could, I would make this into a scented candle! But of course, the nose wasn’t the problem last night, it was the palate. And tonight? Palate a little more expressive I must say. Sweet white fruits are coming through with very mild oak and minerals. Light tannins still present but overall, no depth on the finish.
I guess the nose really got me going on this wine. I had high expectations for this chardonnay – one of creamy, buttery taste followed by a firm vanilla fruit finish. Sadly, it wasn’t so. But then again, it’s not a wine to be poured down the drain or mix with soda water; I still think it’s a decent bottle at its price-point of $10. 87 pts
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Going Back to the Roots, the Terroir, the Reliable
Running through the aisles of my local wine store, I wanted to pick out something different, something I haven’t tried yet. Burgundy? Brunello? German Riesling? Naw, not feeling the sweet stuff tonight. After browsing through the above categories, nothing seemed to have jumped up at me. Either the selection wasn’t that great or the prices were too much for a simple tasting. So what do I do? Go back to the roots, the terroir, the reliable – Bordeaux.
Decanted for about 4 hours, the 2003 Ségla had a perfume that was undeniably sexy – sporting a dark garnet core with ruby rims, the Ségla had a nose full of scorched earth, dirty straw, manure, and oak. Upon more sniffing, smoke, cigar and hints of herbal notes come into display. On the palate, the wine has an amazing finish – roughly 30 seconds in length. Tannins still present, yet the wine is quite smooth. Speaking of the finish, I get dark cherries and hints of mint. Although the 2003 vintage was not a fantastic vintage for Margaux, the Ségla still displays good texture and complexity.
I decided to try a glass that is not decanted – freshly popped and poured. Wow, is it different on the nose!! Not as mature and dense as the decanted glass – the freshly poured glass displays a nose of fresh spring dirt and wet maple leaves. It’s almost as if you walked through a forest on a misty, foggy morning. Quite beautiful indeed. On the palate, much more tannic than the decanted glass, therefore, a little muted; but the finish is still quite nice. Fantastic!
If this is only the second label, can you imagine the Grand Vin!? Luckily, I have a 2005 Chateau Rauzan-Ségla slumbering . . . waiting to be awaken in about 20 years!
The 2003 Ségla is ready to drink now, but can probably benefit with another 3-5 years of cellaring and should last for another decade. What an enjoyable evening! Like I said, when in doubt, go back to the roots, the terroir, the reliable – Bordeaux. 90+ pts
2003 Ségla, Margaux
Ségla is the second label for Chateau Rauzan Ségla, located in Margaux. The vineyard at Chateau Rauzan-Ségla supports 51 ha of vines, with a dominance of Cabernet Sauvignon (61%) and Merlot (35%), with 2% each Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The Grand Vin is Chateau Rauzan-Ségla, of which there are typically 8000 cases produced per annum. Rigorous selection is essential, ensuring that only the choicest portion of the harvest goes into the Grand Vin, the rest going into the second wine, Ségla.Decanted for about 4 hours, the 2003 Ségla had a perfume that was undeniably sexy – sporting a dark garnet core with ruby rims, the Ségla had a nose full of scorched earth, dirty straw, manure, and oak. Upon more sniffing, smoke, cigar and hints of herbal notes come into display. On the palate, the wine has an amazing finish – roughly 30 seconds in length. Tannins still present, yet the wine is quite smooth. Speaking of the finish, I get dark cherries and hints of mint. Although the 2003 vintage was not a fantastic vintage for Margaux, the Ségla still displays good texture and complexity.
I decided to try a glass that is not decanted – freshly popped and poured. Wow, is it different on the nose!! Not as mature and dense as the decanted glass – the freshly poured glass displays a nose of fresh spring dirt and wet maple leaves. It’s almost as if you walked through a forest on a misty, foggy morning. Quite beautiful indeed. On the palate, much more tannic than the decanted glass, therefore, a little muted; but the finish is still quite nice. Fantastic!
If this is only the second label, can you imagine the Grand Vin!? Luckily, I have a 2005 Chateau Rauzan-Ségla slumbering . . . waiting to be awaken in about 20 years!
The 2003 Ségla is ready to drink now, but can probably benefit with another 3-5 years of cellaring and should last for another decade. What an enjoyable evening! Like I said, when in doubt, go back to the roots, the terroir, the reliable – Bordeaux. 90+ pts
Friday, February 26, 2010
Taking It Easy
I've been MIA for about 2 weeks due to my recent trip to China. It was a urgent family trip so I didn't get to venture out and taste wines in China - although I would very much like to do so. I've also been under the weather, so to speak, so tasting wines were not at the top of my priority list as you can imagine. Anyways, tonight though, I thought, "hey, why not ease into things with a nice California central coast Pinot Noir . . . " So here I am, with my 2006 Montoya Pinot Noir, Montery!
2006 Montoya Pinot Noir Proprietary Owned, Monterey
Popped and poured. Color of dark garnet and ruby red on the rims. Nose explodes immediately before I even bring it close to my nose. Full of ripe cherries, strawberries and fresh celery. I know it may seem a little odd, but yes, a smell of fresh, crisp, celery and lettuce! Have you ever brushed your hands over the dew on a fresh turf of grass when you were a kid? And then brought it up to your nose to smell it? That’s exactly how this wine smells like. Very fresh indeed! I also get very little cedar and hints of vanilla. On the palate, this wine is quite smooth. Full of cherries and floral notes, this medium bodied wine is very Napa Valley – fruit forward and ripe! Although the finish remains smooth, the Montoya Pinot Noir lacks structure and complexity. After two hours in the glass, I was hoping for more smokiness, cedar, and earthy tones. Sadly, they never came. Great nose, decent palate and good finish; however, I will say that I prefer the Montoya Cabernet over the Pinot. 87 pts
2006 Montoya Pinot Noir Proprietary Owned, Monterey
Popped and poured. Color of dark garnet and ruby red on the rims. Nose explodes immediately before I even bring it close to my nose. Full of ripe cherries, strawberries and fresh celery. I know it may seem a little odd, but yes, a smell of fresh, crisp, celery and lettuce! Have you ever brushed your hands over the dew on a fresh turf of grass when you were a kid? And then brought it up to your nose to smell it? That’s exactly how this wine smells like. Very fresh indeed! I also get very little cedar and hints of vanilla. On the palate, this wine is quite smooth. Full of cherries and floral notes, this medium bodied wine is very Napa Valley – fruit forward and ripe! Although the finish remains smooth, the Montoya Pinot Noir lacks structure and complexity. After two hours in the glass, I was hoping for more smokiness, cedar, and earthy tones. Sadly, they never came. Great nose, decent palate and good finish; however, I will say that I prefer the Montoya Cabernet over the Pinot. 87 pts
Monday, February 1, 2010
Red, White and Sweet!
Last weekend, a dear friend of mine came over for some wine tasting. She and I have known each other since our grade school days and went to college together as well. Now that we've all grown up, I only get to see her about twice a year, so this get-together was particularly special! After our tasting, we chatted up our current lives and agreed that we must do this every time we meet! What a fantastic afternoon - wine and good friends - exactly what I find wine to be all about! Below are both of our tasting notes.
Note: I was able to go back and taste it a few times since our initial tasting; those are noted in my notes.
2008 Frog’s Leap, Sauvignon Blanc Rutherford
J. Wei: Popped and poured – color initially bothered me a little as it was really light yellow, almost pale. One sniff and it completely brought me back into this wine. Nose full of pear, green apple, honeydew along with hints of vanilla. Just absolutely gorgeous! Fresh lush fruits dominate the core of the nose with crème brulee and floral aromas giving it a perfect finishing touch – absolutely wonderful! Palate of citrus fruits – I get a little of tangerine on the finish, but predominantly pear and green apples again. A very crisp and fresh wine! No oak, no heaviness – just very simple, clean and crisp. Texture is a little weak but the nose is just lovely! Can’t get over the nose! Absolutely fantastic! 89+ pts
B. Sheth: Initial nose gave me very smooth, creamy aromas, together with apples and pears. The wine smelled so fresh and crisp – perfect with fresh cucumbers, cheese and crackers on a hot summer afternoon! Hints of vanilla completes the absolutely beautiful nose. On the palate, wow! It is so yummy! The wine is what I like to call “soft,” yet truly brings out the citrus fruit. Green apple not showing as much in the palate than the nose, but the pears are truly present. Great sauvignon blanc with a truly amazing nose. 90 pts
2005 Chante Cigale, Châteauneuf-du-Pape
J. Wei: Double decanted the night before. Color of deep garnet and ruby red on the rims. Nose of massively scorched earth with hints of spices and cedar. Floral perfume blended with oak lingers behind, with almost a cigar smoke like aromas. Dark fruit dominates the core – mostly cherries with a touch of cassis. On the palate, although firm tannins currently carries the majority of the weight, black cherries are definitely coming through. Spices still present, along with crushed rocks and minerals – has a medium finish. Surprisingly approachable as its still in its youth, although the wine should improve over the next 5-10 years. Will revisit again.
Revisited the wine the second night. Once again, the nose is full of earth, smoke, spices and oak. Ever walk through a forest after a forest fire? That’s how the earth and smokiness smelled like! Black peppers coming through the massive in your face oak. On the palate, this wine is still very tannic. Dark fruit is noticeable – mainly black cherries along with cassis. Oak and spices are still very dominant throughout, with a mixture of minerals and wet rocks. Texture is quite complex as it’ll take years to develop and integrate – but when it does, it’ll truly be a fine wine. Finish remains medium-long, lasting roughly 20 seconds.
As I wrote the previous night, this wine is definitely in its infancy and will remain so for the next 8 years. Cellar for at least 10+ years – should be amazing then! Currently: 89 pts Potentially: 92 pts
B. Sheth: Double decanted the night before. Nose gives off a formidable oaky aroma – almost reminds me of Yosemite in the blazing summer! As I can recall, I’ve never encountered a nose this oaky – truly feels like smelling a forest that hasn’t gotten any rain for 3 months. Very earthy indeed! On the palate, flavors of blackberries with hints of black cherries come forth. Once again, the earthy tones and oak overshadow much of the other flavors. The wine is still very young with tannins controlling much of the finish, although I do get some red pepper lingering. Good with almonds. This wine will certainly improve over the next 10 years. For now, not very much to my liking. 85 pts
2003 Castelnau de Suduiraut
J. Wei: Popped and poured. Through the glass, a beautiful golden hue giving off almost a rich presence. Initial sniff gave off a very unimpressive, almost appalling reaction. Nose at first, was dominated by a strong presence of nail polish remover/varnish like smell. After a few minutes, rich caramel began to creep in along with toasty honey and hints of potpourri. On the palate, oh my lord! Wow! Bam, in your face sweetness that I would have never expected from this wine from what I got from the initial nose. This Sauterne is full of sweet, thick caramel melted with ripe, chewy raisins; I also get hints of cinnamon of the finish. This wine has a nice texture to it – sugar is obviously at the core of this wine, but isn’t over the top sweet. I will visit this in a few days.
Upon approaching this wine three nights later – it’s as if the wine went through a complete transformation! No longer is the nose unimpressive, no longer does it give off that nail polish remover/varnish like smell – quite the contrary, the nose is beautiful, full of rich, ripe pineapples, caramel, vanilla cream and a touch of cinnamon. I also get hints of lemon and toasted pie crusts – just absolutely lovely! The wine is much smoother on the palate, showing great fruit; once again, the pineapple and caramel remains at the core with ripe apricots. Great texture, good acidity, although the finish is a little on the short side. Still, a fantastic introduction to Sauterne for me; can’t wait to get my hands on a 2001 d’Yquem! 90 pts
B. Sheth: My first Sauterne, how exciting! Nose is quite beautiful – reminds me of pear dipped in rich caramel. Initially, there are hints of oak – smelling like autumn in Main! (Or perhaps the very color of the beautiful wine reminds me of the golden colored maple leaves during autumn!) This wine is subtle, yet gives off a composed presence. On the palate, wow! A punch-you-in-the-face sweetness as the melted caramel and raisins engulf your taste buds. Never would have expected this – this wine smells and tastes completely differently. Very smooth finish. A good introduction to Sauternes for me! 87 pts
Note: I was able to go back and taste it a few times since our initial tasting; those are noted in my notes.
2008 Frog’s Leap, Sauvignon Blanc Rutherford
J. Wei: Popped and poured – color initially bothered me a little as it was really light yellow, almost pale. One sniff and it completely brought me back into this wine. Nose full of pear, green apple, honeydew along with hints of vanilla. Just absolutely gorgeous! Fresh lush fruits dominate the core of the nose with crème brulee and floral aromas giving it a perfect finishing touch – absolutely wonderful! Palate of citrus fruits – I get a little of tangerine on the finish, but predominantly pear and green apples again. A very crisp and fresh wine! No oak, no heaviness – just very simple, clean and crisp. Texture is a little weak but the nose is just lovely! Can’t get over the nose! Absolutely fantastic! 89+ pts
B. Sheth: Initial nose gave me very smooth, creamy aromas, together with apples and pears. The wine smelled so fresh and crisp – perfect with fresh cucumbers, cheese and crackers on a hot summer afternoon! Hints of vanilla completes the absolutely beautiful nose. On the palate, wow! It is so yummy! The wine is what I like to call “soft,” yet truly brings out the citrus fruit. Green apple not showing as much in the palate than the nose, but the pears are truly present. Great sauvignon blanc with a truly amazing nose. 90 pts
2005 Chante Cigale, Châteauneuf-du-Pape
J. Wei: Double decanted the night before. Color of deep garnet and ruby red on the rims. Nose of massively scorched earth with hints of spices and cedar. Floral perfume blended with oak lingers behind, with almost a cigar smoke like aromas. Dark fruit dominates the core – mostly cherries with a touch of cassis. On the palate, although firm tannins currently carries the majority of the weight, black cherries are definitely coming through. Spices still present, along with crushed rocks and minerals – has a medium finish. Surprisingly approachable as its still in its youth, although the wine should improve over the next 5-10 years. Will revisit again.
Revisited the wine the second night. Once again, the nose is full of earth, smoke, spices and oak. Ever walk through a forest after a forest fire? That’s how the earth and smokiness smelled like! Black peppers coming through the massive in your face oak. On the palate, this wine is still very tannic. Dark fruit is noticeable – mainly black cherries along with cassis. Oak and spices are still very dominant throughout, with a mixture of minerals and wet rocks. Texture is quite complex as it’ll take years to develop and integrate – but when it does, it’ll truly be a fine wine. Finish remains medium-long, lasting roughly 20 seconds.
As I wrote the previous night, this wine is definitely in its infancy and will remain so for the next 8 years. Cellar for at least 10+ years – should be amazing then! Currently: 89 pts Potentially: 92 pts
B. Sheth: Double decanted the night before. Nose gives off a formidable oaky aroma – almost reminds me of Yosemite in the blazing summer! As I can recall, I’ve never encountered a nose this oaky – truly feels like smelling a forest that hasn’t gotten any rain for 3 months. Very earthy indeed! On the palate, flavors of blackberries with hints of black cherries come forth. Once again, the earthy tones and oak overshadow much of the other flavors. The wine is still very young with tannins controlling much of the finish, although I do get some red pepper lingering. Good with almonds. This wine will certainly improve over the next 10 years. For now, not very much to my liking. 85 pts
2003 Castelnau de Suduiraut
J. Wei: Popped and poured. Through the glass, a beautiful golden hue giving off almost a rich presence. Initial sniff gave off a very unimpressive, almost appalling reaction. Nose at first, was dominated by a strong presence of nail polish remover/varnish like smell. After a few minutes, rich caramel began to creep in along with toasty honey and hints of potpourri. On the palate, oh my lord! Wow! Bam, in your face sweetness that I would have never expected from this wine from what I got from the initial nose. This Sauterne is full of sweet, thick caramel melted with ripe, chewy raisins; I also get hints of cinnamon of the finish. This wine has a nice texture to it – sugar is obviously at the core of this wine, but isn’t over the top sweet. I will visit this in a few days.
Upon approaching this wine three nights later – it’s as if the wine went through a complete transformation! No longer is the nose unimpressive, no longer does it give off that nail polish remover/varnish like smell – quite the contrary, the nose is beautiful, full of rich, ripe pineapples, caramel, vanilla cream and a touch of cinnamon. I also get hints of lemon and toasted pie crusts – just absolutely lovely! The wine is much smoother on the palate, showing great fruit; once again, the pineapple and caramel remains at the core with ripe apricots. Great texture, good acidity, although the finish is a little on the short side. Still, a fantastic introduction to Sauterne for me; can’t wait to get my hands on a 2001 d’Yquem! 90 pts
B. Sheth: My first Sauterne, how exciting! Nose is quite beautiful – reminds me of pear dipped in rich caramel. Initially, there are hints of oak – smelling like autumn in Main! (Or perhaps the very color of the beautiful wine reminds me of the golden colored maple leaves during autumn!) This wine is subtle, yet gives off a composed presence. On the palate, wow! A punch-you-in-the-face sweetness as the melted caramel and raisins engulf your taste buds. Never would have expected this – this wine smells and tastes completely differently. Very smooth finish. A good introduction to Sauternes for me! 87 pts
Friday, January 15, 2010
One More Time
A few nights ago, I received a call from a friend who had asked me over Christmas, what to recommend for a good Napa Valley Cabernet under $15. I told him to give the 2006 Montoya a try. He did. His response was that the wine was too spicy, tannic and that he "didn't get too much from it." Surprised by his comments, as he drinks on a fairly regular basis, I thought to try the Montoya once more (I have tasted it over Christmas, notes are here).
2006 Montoya Cabernet Sauvignon
Double decanted it the night before. Color exhibits deep purple, showing garnet on the rim. The wine immediately displays aromas of cedars, spices and dark fruits; a closer whiff reveals floral scents, vanilla and hints of oak. Lovely smell to be quite honest. The spices are definitely dominant although it does let the fruits and flowers come through. I also smell hints of cinnamon in the back end of the glass. Palate full of blackberries and cherries. Very good. Not too ripe, which is what I prefer; hints of dark chocolate in the finish. Speaking of the finish, medium finish, tannic, yet smooth. Structure is nice, with the tannins not completely overwhelming the fruits; although complexity is somewhat lacking.
For some reason, I believe that this tasting is revealing more of the wine than the first time I tasted it. Perhaps of the double decant 24 hours prior to tasting? Maybe. Should probably be even better tomorrow! The nose is truly beautiful. This is a perfect example of Napa Valley Cabernet. 88+ pts
2006 Montoya Cabernet Sauvignon
Double decanted it the night before. Color exhibits deep purple, showing garnet on the rim. The wine immediately displays aromas of cedars, spices and dark fruits; a closer whiff reveals floral scents, vanilla and hints of oak. Lovely smell to be quite honest. The spices are definitely dominant although it does let the fruits and flowers come through. I also smell hints of cinnamon in the back end of the glass. Palate full of blackberries and cherries. Very good. Not too ripe, which is what I prefer; hints of dark chocolate in the finish. Speaking of the finish, medium finish, tannic, yet smooth. Structure is nice, with the tannins not completely overwhelming the fruits; although complexity is somewhat lacking.
For some reason, I believe that this tasting is revealing more of the wine than the first time I tasted it. Perhaps of the double decant 24 hours prior to tasting? Maybe. Should probably be even better tomorrow! The nose is truly beautiful. This is a perfect example of Napa Valley Cabernet. 88+ pts
Saturday, January 9, 2010
A Lovely Bottle of Chardonnay Bubbles
A great introduction to the world of blanc de blancs in champagne! Blanc de blancs (BdB) is champagne made with 100% chardonnay grapes – no blending with any other grape varietal of any sort.
NV Paul Goerg Blanc de Blancs Brut
The Paul Goerg BdB gives off an impressive nose: full of green apples, almonds, and other citrus; definitely includes some bread like toast aromas as well. I also get hints of honey and floral scents towards the end. Palate full of almonds and juicy white fruits; mostly green apple dominating the core tart flavors with pears contributing to the sweetness. Great balance; medium finish with plenty of bubbles! Very crisp champagne indeed – not as dry as usual bruts out there. Priced at $25, a lovely bottle of chardonnay bubbles for anyone who wishes to venture into the world of blanc de blancs! 91+ pts
Note: Will try again in 12-24 months
NV Paul Goerg Blanc de Blancs Brut
The Paul Goerg BdB gives off an impressive nose: full of green apples, almonds, and other citrus; definitely includes some bread like toast aromas as well. I also get hints of honey and floral scents towards the end. Palate full of almonds and juicy white fruits; mostly green apple dominating the core tart flavors with pears contributing to the sweetness. Great balance; medium finish with plenty of bubbles! Very crisp champagne indeed – not as dry as usual bruts out there. Priced at $25, a lovely bottle of chardonnay bubbles for anyone who wishes to venture into the world of blanc de blancs! 91+ pts
Note: Will try again in 12-24 months
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Tasting Notes: $3 Wine vs $20+ Wine
Recently, I tried an experiment: compare and contrast a $3 wine versus a $20+ wine. Would there be a great difference? Would I be able to tell? Here are the results!
2005 Panther Creek Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Double decanted. Nice dark garnet color, ruby red on the rim. At first, nose of deep earth, dark cherry, cassis and blackberries with hints of medium oak, smoke and bits of leather; still tight, even after almost two hours in the glass. But definitely lots and lots of earth – manure, rocks, dirt, dry haystacks. . . Flavors of mild dark fruits – still very tannic as the bitterness lingers on the finish. Dark chocolate? Medium finish, not smooth at this point, quite tart. I revisited this wine the very next night and it has evolved quite dramatically. Nose is no longer tight, rather it’s full of cherries, freshly brewed coffee, hints of cedar and vanilla; the smoke and leather remains. Earth is still overwhelmingly present. Palate is full of dark fruits and the finish is much smoother than last night; however, structure isn't strong and complexity is weak. No dark chocolate. Not terrible for $24, but not overly impressive either. 87+pts
2008 Charles Shaw Cabernet Sauvignon
My father wanted me to try this wine he picked up at Trader Joe's. I hesitated when he told me the price point ($3 aka, Three-Buck-Chuck), but I ended up doing so anyway – thought it would be a nice experiment/experience. These notes are based off of a bottle that was opened 5 days ago.
Wine exhibits a pretty ruby color all around. Candy?! For some reason, I get plenty of candy aromas, almost like strawberry Laffy Taffy. Definitely not what I was expecting! On the palate, the wine is a fruit bomb, plenty of ripe strawberries and cherries, however lacks backbone and texture. No oak whatsoever. The finish, abet smooth, is very short. All in all: didn’t like the nose at all and not much in the core juices either. Not my type of drink. But I guess, for $3, you can’t have great expectations. 75 pts
2005 Panther Creek Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Double decanted. Nice dark garnet color, ruby red on the rim. At first, nose of deep earth, dark cherry, cassis and blackberries with hints of medium oak, smoke and bits of leather; still tight, even after almost two hours in the glass. But definitely lots and lots of earth – manure, rocks, dirt, dry haystacks. . . Flavors of mild dark fruits – still very tannic as the bitterness lingers on the finish. Dark chocolate? Medium finish, not smooth at this point, quite tart. I revisited this wine the very next night and it has evolved quite dramatically. Nose is no longer tight, rather it’s full of cherries, freshly brewed coffee, hints of cedar and vanilla; the smoke and leather remains. Earth is still overwhelmingly present. Palate is full of dark fruits and the finish is much smoother than last night; however, structure isn't strong and complexity is weak. No dark chocolate. Not terrible for $24, but not overly impressive either. 87+pts
2008 Charles Shaw Cabernet Sauvignon
My father wanted me to try this wine he picked up at Trader Joe's. I hesitated when he told me the price point ($3 aka, Three-Buck-Chuck), but I ended up doing so anyway – thought it would be a nice experiment/experience. These notes are based off of a bottle that was opened 5 days ago.
Wine exhibits a pretty ruby color all around. Candy?! For some reason, I get plenty of candy aromas, almost like strawberry Laffy Taffy. Definitely not what I was expecting! On the palate, the wine is a fruit bomb, plenty of ripe strawberries and cherries, however lacks backbone and texture. No oak whatsoever. The finish, abet smooth, is very short. All in all: didn’t like the nose at all and not much in the core juices either. Not my type of drink. But I guess, for $3, you can’t have great expectations. 75 pts
Monday, January 4, 2010
2007 Robert Mondavi Chardonnay CHX – (Revisited)
The wine was calling to me, “Give me another chance! I’ll try harder to impress!”
2007 Robert Mondavi Chardonnay CHX
For some reason, I felt compelled to go back to the 2007 Mondavi CHX – maybe because it was the only chardonnay I purchased in my recent Napa trip, or maybe because it’s not sold at retail stores (it’s a winery direct purchase) and I had great expectations for it. For whatever reason, I’m revisiting this drink seven days after the initial pour.
Swirling, swirling . . . light golden color; quite pretty actually. Once again, nose of honeysuckle, fresh, crisp Asian pears and ripe golden apples – lots of fruits. This time, some mint came through. Hints of citrus hung in the aromas – once again, I get tangerine on the very end of the nose. In the glass now for about 10 minutes, some classic perfume coming through, almost like light potpourri. Lovely nose in general, quite lovely indeed. Let’s have a sip. Apples showed again, some pears and that’s really about it – very mild oak. I get this tangy, tart, semi-bitter taste in the finish, which I do not particularly like.
Wrapping up this Mondavi chardonnay: it has a beautiful fragrance, everything that you can ask for in a nice, refreshing chardonnay, but on the palate, it’s really not doing much for me. It seems to lack texture and structure altogether. I want to give it a good score . . . believe me, I really do, but I simply can’t. Not for $32. 87 pts
2007 Robert Mondavi Chardonnay CHX
For some reason, I felt compelled to go back to the 2007 Mondavi CHX – maybe because it was the only chardonnay I purchased in my recent Napa trip, or maybe because it’s not sold at retail stores (it’s a winery direct purchase) and I had great expectations for it. For whatever reason, I’m revisiting this drink seven days after the initial pour.
Swirling, swirling . . . light golden color; quite pretty actually. Once again, nose of honeysuckle, fresh, crisp Asian pears and ripe golden apples – lots of fruits. This time, some mint came through. Hints of citrus hung in the aromas – once again, I get tangerine on the very end of the nose. In the glass now for about 10 minutes, some classic perfume coming through, almost like light potpourri. Lovely nose in general, quite lovely indeed. Let’s have a sip. Apples showed again, some pears and that’s really about it – very mild oak. I get this tangy, tart, semi-bitter taste in the finish, which I do not particularly like.
Wrapping up this Mondavi chardonnay: it has a beautiful fragrance, everything that you can ask for in a nice, refreshing chardonnay, but on the palate, it’s really not doing much for me. It seems to lack texture and structure altogether. I want to give it a good score . . . believe me, I really do, but I simply can’t. Not for $32. 87 pts
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Tasting Notes: Holiday Wines 2009
I tasted a few bottles over the holidays (span of 2 weeks or so). A few CA, one Spanish and a few Bordeaux. Here are the tasting notes! Enjoy!
2006 Daglia Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon
Decanted for about an hour. Nose of cherries and blackberries. Flavors of spice and hints of vanilla. Opened up more in the glass as the night went on – smooth finish. 87 pts
2006 Montoya Cabernet Sauvignon
Popped and poured. At first, nose of cassis and that was about it; very tight. Flavors of very mild fruits and charcoal? Revisited the following night and boy did the wine open up. Nose had great fruit, some dried roses and vanilla. Palate full of blackberries, hints of cherries, cedar and for some reason . . . potpourri. For $10 . . . not bad at all. 88 pts
2005 Columbia Crest Walter Clore Private Reserve
Upon opening, nose was muted. Decanted for about 1.5 hours and aromas of cherries came through. After taking 2 lengthy sips . . . chocolate!! Definitely chocolate on the finish! Also revisited the next night; much better . . . fuller wine now with nose of ripe cherries, cinnamon, and hints of new leather. Chocolate again dominated the finish. Could probably benefit with 3+ years of cellaring. 90 pts
2007 Robert Mondavi Chardonnay CHX
Bought it during my visit to Mondavi Winery in August of 2009. $32. Nose of honeysuckle, Asian pear, golden apples . . . bits of tangerine? Smells great, I must say . . . On the palate, crisp golden apples again and hints of vanilla. Very, very mild oak. Short to medium finish. For $32, I don’t think I’d buy it again. Nose is really refreshing though. A nice glass for a hot summer day, paired with crackers, cucumbers, tomatoes and cheese! 86+ pts
2004 Lan Rioja Reserva
Decanted for about an hour. Nose of earth, spice, crushed rocks, crushed rose petals and . . . herbs? Let me get one more sniff. Seems like something between mints and leafy greens. Anyways, rich flavors I must say – ripe fruits, mainly plums and cherries. A bit oaky, but nice balance; smooth finish. 87 pts
2005 Chateau Cruzeau
Popped and poured at a family get together. Really needed at least 4+ hours decant. Nose really tight – didn’t get much except bitter tannins. No fruit for me here. Couldn’t detect any fruits in the first few sips . . . maybe blueberries? I poured some more in the glass and went upstairs and set it on a remote table (so little kids wouldn’t spill it). Came back after 5 hours. Now we’re talking! Nose of tobacco, cedar and leather. Opened up much more here . . . palate included, yup, blueberries for sure this time, and cherries. Nice wine – but really needs time. 88 pts
2005 Chateau De Rochemorin
Popped and poured at dinner. Why do I keep doing this to the 2005s? Tight, as expected. Didn’t even bother to really try it until 2 hours later. Better showing now with nose full of cedar, leather and smoke. Lots of leather more than anything else. Flavors of cherries and vanilla – the finish was actually a bit spicy . . . interesting. Revisited the next night – and once again, leather dominated the nose, but this time, some floral scents lingering . . . nice. Cherries and cassis are definitely there. For $19, a great 2005 Bordeaux! 89 pts
2005 Chateau La Louviere
Decanted for 1 hour. Probably should have left it there for another 3 hours. Anyways, another great 05 example. Like the 2005 Chateau De Rochemorin, lots of leather in the nose followed by cassis. Cherries, plums, toasted oak and dried roses. Still reserved after 4 plus hours. Nice finish, has decent length, although not very smooth at this moment. Needs at least 10+ years. 89 pts
2000 Chateau La Louviere
Double decanted and brought to restaurant. Nice earthly aromas along with blackberries, hints of cherries; leather was there as well. Palate began with smooth texture with chocolate showings towards the end. Fruits were present along with crushed rocks. The wine evolved throughout the dinner, reaffirming the above notes. The cherries became more dominant and boy, did the chocolate really begin to show itself. Nice smooth finish. Very nice. 91 pts
Happy New Year everyone!!
2006 Daglia Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon
Decanted for about an hour. Nose of cherries and blackberries. Flavors of spice and hints of vanilla. Opened up more in the glass as the night went on – smooth finish. 87 pts
2006 Montoya Cabernet Sauvignon
Popped and poured. At first, nose of cassis and that was about it; very tight. Flavors of very mild fruits and charcoal? Revisited the following night and boy did the wine open up. Nose had great fruit, some dried roses and vanilla. Palate full of blackberries, hints of cherries, cedar and for some reason . . . potpourri. For $10 . . . not bad at all. 88 pts
2005 Columbia Crest Walter Clore Private Reserve
Upon opening, nose was muted. Decanted for about 1.5 hours and aromas of cherries came through. After taking 2 lengthy sips . . . chocolate!! Definitely chocolate on the finish! Also revisited the next night; much better . . . fuller wine now with nose of ripe cherries, cinnamon, and hints of new leather. Chocolate again dominated the finish. Could probably benefit with 3+ years of cellaring. 90 pts
2007 Robert Mondavi Chardonnay CHX
Bought it during my visit to Mondavi Winery in August of 2009. $32. Nose of honeysuckle, Asian pear, golden apples . . . bits of tangerine? Smells great, I must say . . . On the palate, crisp golden apples again and hints of vanilla. Very, very mild oak. Short to medium finish. For $32, I don’t think I’d buy it again. Nose is really refreshing though. A nice glass for a hot summer day, paired with crackers, cucumbers, tomatoes and cheese! 86+ pts
2004 Lan Rioja Reserva
Decanted for about an hour. Nose of earth, spice, crushed rocks, crushed rose petals and . . . herbs? Let me get one more sniff. Seems like something between mints and leafy greens. Anyways, rich flavors I must say – ripe fruits, mainly plums and cherries. A bit oaky, but nice balance; smooth finish. 87 pts
2005 Chateau Cruzeau
Popped and poured at a family get together. Really needed at least 4+ hours decant. Nose really tight – didn’t get much except bitter tannins. No fruit for me here. Couldn’t detect any fruits in the first few sips . . . maybe blueberries? I poured some more in the glass and went upstairs and set it on a remote table (so little kids wouldn’t spill it). Came back after 5 hours. Now we’re talking! Nose of tobacco, cedar and leather. Opened up much more here . . . palate included, yup, blueberries for sure this time, and cherries. Nice wine – but really needs time. 88 pts
2005 Chateau De Rochemorin
Popped and poured at dinner. Why do I keep doing this to the 2005s? Tight, as expected. Didn’t even bother to really try it until 2 hours later. Better showing now with nose full of cedar, leather and smoke. Lots of leather more than anything else. Flavors of cherries and vanilla – the finish was actually a bit spicy . . . interesting. Revisited the next night – and once again, leather dominated the nose, but this time, some floral scents lingering . . . nice. Cherries and cassis are definitely there. For $19, a great 2005 Bordeaux! 89 pts
2005 Chateau La Louviere
Decanted for 1 hour. Probably should have left it there for another 3 hours. Anyways, another great 05 example. Like the 2005 Chateau De Rochemorin, lots of leather in the nose followed by cassis. Cherries, plums, toasted oak and dried roses. Still reserved after 4 plus hours. Nice finish, has decent length, although not very smooth at this moment. Needs at least 10+ years. 89 pts
2000 Chateau La Louviere
Double decanted and brought to restaurant. Nice earthly aromas along with blackberries, hints of cherries; leather was there as well. Palate began with smooth texture with chocolate showings towards the end. Fruits were present along with crushed rocks. The wine evolved throughout the dinner, reaffirming the above notes. The cherries became more dominant and boy, did the chocolate really begin to show itself. Nice smooth finish. Very nice. 91 pts
Happy New Year everyone!!
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