Sunday, February 1st, 2009
90 / B
Tasted by Mike Supple - 15 Dec 2008
Dark ruby core with a ruby rim. The nose is somewhat muted at first, but opens up as the glass sat implying continuing development in the bottle if you have the patience to let it evolve. Aromas of violets and earth are backed by black cherry and cassis with a touch of sweet vanilla. A hint of green pepper on the front palate is quickly followed by dark fruits - black cherry, blackberry, plum - and accented by hints of toasty vanilla. Fairly tannic with body and acid to match making this a well balanced wine that should age for many years.
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Tags: 2004, Add new tag, black, blackberry, cabernet, california, cassis, Cellars, cherry, Coast, earth, green, Napa, North, pepper, plum, red, red wine, ruby, saddleback, sauvignon, sweet, toast, vanilla, violet, wine
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Sunday, February 1st, 2009
90 / A
Tasted by Mike Supple - 24 Jan 2008
Rich ruby core, with garnet hints on the rim. The aromas are spicy and rich, with red and black cherries underscored by plum with cinnamon notes in the background. On the palate this tastes and feels stunningly like a beautiful red Burgundy. Lush and ripe, with elegant, smooth tannins. Dark raspberry and cherry flavors are accented by a touch of tea and leather with light black truffle and earth underneath.
I tried this blind the first time, and while distinctly Spanish in aromas, I could swear that I had a well aged Burgundy in my mouth. Stunning little wine. Most likely in its prime now, but should be able to hold its own for several more years.
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Tags: 2001, Add new tag, alta, benito, blakc, Bodega, Bodegas, Burgundy, cherry, cinnamon, earth, especial, garnet, leather, pedro, plum, raspberry, red, red wine, Rioja, ruby, seleccion, spain, spice, tea, Tempranillo, truffle, urbina, wine
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Wednesday, January 21st, 2009
88 / B
Tasted by Mike Supple - 15 Jan 2008
Bright lemon yellow core, getting paler towards the rim. Very toasty aromas up front. Myer Lemon curd with a touch of butter, toasted almonds and a hint of slate. Very good acidity on the palate, and a good balance of fruit and oak. Bid lemon lollipop flavors with a touch of lime and yellow apple lingering into the creamy finish.
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Tags: 2004, Add new tag, california, chardonnay, Coast, Gallo, Laguna, North, Ranch, River, Russian, sonoma, valley, Vineyard, White wine
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