This is the greatest Cheval des Andes ever. Discrete aromas of blackberries, flowers, stone and licorice. So perfumed. The integration of fruit, tannins and acidity is fantastic. Full-bodied, tight and solid with beautiful depth and integrity. Extremely l...
As with the other varietals of the range, I also had two vintages of this to compare, starting with the older 2015 Catena Alta Malbec. It is a mixture of grapes from multiple vineyards: Angelica, La Pir?mide, Nicasia, Adrianna and Ang?lica Sur. It ferment...
The 2016 Chianti Classico is an explosion of floral-infused aromatics and red-toned fruit, all in the super-classic mid-weight style that is such a signature of the Querciabella house style today. Rose petal, lavender, mint and sweet raspberry fruit are p...
Pol Roger, one of a few luxury Champagne firms still family-owned, was established in Epernay in 1849. Pol Roger owns 200 acres of vineyards, which provide about 45% of their needs. Pol Roger's cellars extend over four miles of winding chalk passageways on two levels. The second or deeper cellar maintains a constant 9.5º C (50º F), one degree lower than the first level and most others in the region. This lower temperature slows the second fermentation, encouraging a finer mousse or bubbles. Pol Roger Champagne also spends two to three times the allowable minimum in the cellar before disgorgement, or about three years for the non-vintage and up to seven for the luxury cuvées. The long, slow maturation contributes greatly to the complex aromas, which distinguish these superb Champagnes.The Brut Non Vintage blend is traditionally composed from about 30 to 35 still base wines
The peppery, spicy and elegant 2021 Appellation San Carlos Cabernet Franc is fresh, varietal, nuanced and complex while keeping the alcohol to a moderate 13.6%, which makes it attractive and easy to drink, with nice balance and very fine tannins. I usuall...
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Catena Appellation Agrelo from Luján de Cuyo was aged for eight months in a third new barrels. Garnet red in hue. The nose offers notes of roasted red pepper, ash and ripe blackcurrant along with hints of spice. Broad and expan...
The 2021 Appellation Paraje Altamira Malbec was my favorite from this range of Malbecs from different IGs (Indicación Geograficas, the appellations of Argentina), with freshness, elegance, balance, complexity and nuance. It has moderate 13.4% alcohol and ...