Gran Vin du Domaine L’Ostal Cazes 2012

On the nose black cherries, liquorice and black pepper, which gives a slightly prickly sensation. In the moth well balanced and consistent with the nose. Fairly long finish, but lighter than expected, with an earthy character.

This wine is produced under the Minervois La Livinière red wine appellation by the Domaine L’Ostal Cazes. Continue reading “Gran Vin du Domaine L’Ostal Cazes 2012”

Le Chevalier de Sterimberg 2011

On the nose (acacia) honey, nuts and caramelized citrus aromas. In the mouth very elegant and superbly balanced. The finish is characterised by an explosion of flavours. The aftertaste is subtly discreet, but stays around for quite a while.

This Hermitage Blanc is a blend of 2/3 Marsanne and 1/3 Roussanne, both indigenous of the northern Rhône Valley. Continue reading “Le Chevalier de Sterimberg 2011”

Campo Vijeo Gran Reserva 2011

On the nose some wizened fruit, toffee and a light mocha character. In the mouth balanced, but only moderately structured, with a finish and aftertaste dominated by dark chocolate. The oak is not as overpowering as in other Gran Reserva. Overall, the wine is not very sophisticated, but drinks nicely.  Continue reading “Campo Vijeo Gran Reserva 2011”

Marqués de Riscal Limousin 2016

On the nose a nutty and herbaceous character dominates. In the mouth a slightly oxidative note reminds me of a Fino Sherry. The aftertaste is rather short and marked by an acidic sensation.

Overall this wine is less refreshing than you would expect from a varietal Verdejo. This is probably due to the fact that Limousin is a sort of special edition. Continue reading “Marqués de Riscal Limousin 2016”

Muga Seleccíon Especial 2011

Although they are very subtle, the milky nuances typical of Rioja wines are the first aroma I detect on the nose. The fruit is a bit lacking, with burnt notes, hints of spices and licorice (another trademark of Tempranillo based wines) coming forward.

Once in the mouth the wine pleases you from the first sip. Tasty and fresh, with an agreeable mouthfeel, thanks to well integrated tannins.  Continue reading “Muga Seleccíon Especial 2011”

Viña Ardanza 2009

On the nose a spicy and earthy character dominates: mushroom, tobacco, nutmeg, mocha and chocolate. From the background, hints of cherries and stewed plums come forward. In the mouth smooth and well balanced, with elegant tannins and a good acidity. The wine is tasty and leaves you with a fairly long aftertaste. Continue reading “Viña Ardanza 2009”

CVNE Selección de Fincas Graciano 2016

The wine displays an intense prune colour. On the nose a pleasant perfume, strongly influenced by blueberry scent. In the mouth velvety, with medium acidity, moderate tannins and a pleasant fruity finish that last for a fair aftertaste.

Graciano is a difficult to cultivate and low yielding grape. Continue reading “CVNE Selección de Fincas Graciano 2016”

Psarades Dafni 2017

The nose is characterised by herby aromas, like rosemary, pine and the signature laurel, which is called “dafni” in Greek.

The mouth is also dominated by herbal sensations, with a finish that displays the flavours of the same rosemary, pine and laurel that welcome you on the nose. The long lingering aftertaste has a savoury character and a citrus fruit background. Continue reading “Psarades Dafni 2017”

Domaine Paterianakis 2014

On the nose at first meaty, but after a while some cherries and menthol notes come forward. In the mouth smooth and well balanced. The finish leans toward dry fruits. The aftertaste is pleasant, although it doesn’t last very long.

This red wine that matures for one year in French oak is produced under the Peza denomination. Continue reading “Domaine Paterianakis 2014”