Quick Reviews
Bodegas CARO Malbec / Cabernet Sauvignon – 2014
A whiff of camphor on the nose, but an otherwise balanced glass, with blackcurrant and subtle woodsy touches making it rather enjoyable. Perfect tannin.
Jules Taylor Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc – 2015
Fantastic NZSB with all the usual notes, but dialed up to 11. Lemongrass, cat pee, citrus and stone are all in play in equal measure. Will pair with powerful dishes but drinks well on its own if you like a bold glass. Not for the timid. Only fails a 5-star review because of lack of balance and acidity which just seems a bit off.
Trapiche Astica Sauvignon Blanc / Semillon – 2014
As bland as a seminar on multilevel marketing with a flavor like the paper the presenter notes were printed on. Even comes with a sour aftertaste, as if the presenter broke wind before the room could clear.
Peregrine Mohua – Sauvignon Blanc – 2014
Big nose but premature finish. The Richard Nixon of NZ Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.
Cuna de Tierra Nebbiolo – 2014
Fantastic vino mexicano, a lack of nose keeps this from a full five stars. Otherwise it hits all the right notes: earthy berry and chocolate with just the right tannins and perfect lingering finish. Pair with BBQ or a fine steak for the full experience. Buen trabajo, Guanajuato!
Megyer Tokaji Aszú – 3 Puttonyos – 2010
Delicious Hungarian tokaji, but it’s always better to invest in the 5-Puttonyo bottles if you can get them. This one is lacking the usual character and exotic flavors, keeping it from a five star rating, but otherwise a fantastic adventure.
Manzone Bricat Barolo – 2007
The color of a port, and a high alcohol kick to boot, this is nevertheless an understated, tranquil red that could never be called bold. Disappointing given the Piemonte heritage.
Tacama – Seleccion Especial Petit Verdot Tannat – 2013
An interesting offering from Ica Peru, this petit verdot and tannat blend can’t be drunk on its own, but pair with the right dish and it will shine. Odd flavors of cheese and campfire come together nicely with a strong Italian meal.
Santiago Queirolo Siglo XIV Tinto Dulce Malbec Tannat – N.V.
A blend of vintages presumably from whatever year they could scrape from the cutting room floor, it’s not the usual disgusting swill from Quierola, but it’s close.
Trapiche Tardio Chardonnay 2011
Nose of grape jelly and a touch of vanilla, with surprisingly subtle sugar and an acidic bite given that this is a near-dessert wine. Was a moderate crowd pleaser during a large gathering, but some were turned off by the acid. Pair with cannoli or vanilla cake.