|
 Vanessa W. Wine Reviews
2000 - Shafer Vineyards Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Pass |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| I got this in a closeout for $10 - amazing I know! And for that price it was a steal, but at its normal price tag, I would say pass on this vintage. This was just too oaky, and this wine more than anything has passed its prime. It's getting flabby and lacks the fruit it needs to be enjoyable. |
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2005 - Schug Cellars Pinot Noir Sonoma Pinot Noir |
Good Pinot |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| This was a fine pinot, compared to other pinots in this price range, but overall I feel like there are a lot of other wines under $20 that will bring you more bang for your buck. Strawberries, velvety tannins, almost sweet on the palate. |
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2001 - Shooting Star Merlot Merlot |
Basically Weird |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| Soft vanilla oak, strong milk chocolate and light cigarette butt are the best way to decribe this wine. I know that sounds weird, but this wine is kind of weird. The nose comes off as a basic California merlot, but then the palate is all over the place. Best to pass on this one. |
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2004 - Truchard Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Great Value - Kind Of |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| We openned this last night and we were amazed at the quality that this wine had to offer for the price. Not uber cheap, but cheap in terms of California Cabernet. This was a more refined and stylish styled Cabernet and didn't beat your palate with tannins. The overall fruit is well rounded and has hints of mint in the far background. Enjoy over the next 5 years for maximum flavor. |
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2004 - Willamette Valley Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Enjoyable |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| This is not a complicated wine, not an exciting wine, but it is an enjoyable wine. Basic fruit of apples and lime come through on the palate, covered in light butter and oak. If you love oak bombs - this wine isn't for you. |
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2001 - De Loach Zinfandel Papera Ranch Zinfandel |
Decent Zinfandel |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| i wouldn't buy a case of this stuff but if someone was pouring it, like the party I was at where someone was pouring it, then yeah I would stick my glass out for a refill. The alcohol is the main concern, showing itself too much on the midpalate and finish. The big currants and red fruit are the highlights. |
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2004 - Fife Merlot Merlot |
Table Wine |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| This was a very basic merlot that delivers enough cherry and cocoa flavors to make it worth drinking as an everyday quaffer. The oak is a little too evident and the alcohol kicks in on your midpalate. Finish doesn't last too long, which I actually was happy about with this wine. |
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2002 - Cimicky, Charles Gnarled Vine Grenache Grenache |
Delicious Grenache |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| This was an unexpected flavor buster for me. I figured it would be fruit forward, but this wine explodes in your mouth with jobs of blueberries and dark rich black berries. Enjoy with a big juicy steak. |
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2003 - Jones, Trevor Cabernet / Merlot Proprietary Blend |
Good Blend |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| The merlot does a good job of evening out this cab/merlot blend wine, and gives it a little bit of smoothness that would otherwise be lacking. The medium body and unexpected acidity are a nice surprise. This wine is still fruit forward, but has some elegance as well. |
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2001 - Boscarelli De Ferrari (Sangiovese) Sangiovese |
Not For Me |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| This was a little too earthy and mushroomy (if that's a word) for my tastes. I talk it with a grain of salt that Italian wines need food to be enjoyable, but for me, this wine needs a lot more than a great meal. Tannins are rough and the alcohol sticks out too much. Pass. |
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2004 - Castano Hecula Proprietary Blend |
Horid |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| Tastes like donkey dung covered in alcohol. How Parkers group gave this wine 90 points is beyond me. This is like drinking bad grappa with cool-aid flavored wine mixed in. PASS! |
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2000 - Carlisle Winery Syrah Syrah |
Wonderful Syrah |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| The deep fruit and beautiful light smokiness of this wine is what draws you in! Also the perfect ruby red color doesn't hurt either. The smoothness of this wine is what impressed me the most. Bottle age has been good to this wine. Excellent syrah for an off vintage. |
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9998 - Ballentine Vineyards Zinfandel Old Vines Estate Zinfandel |
Predictable |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| This zinfandel was predictable in that it delivered all of the fake california flavors you would expect, high alcohol and nothing that would make you remember this wine.Big Pass for me. |
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2003 - Penfolds Chardonnay Thomas Hyland Chardonnay |
Too Fake! |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| The oak kills this over oaked, fake fruit, and too much alcohol. This wine really shows its terroir, or at least that it came from a hot Australian summer! This isn't a wine that will make you try to get your money back, but you probably won't be buying a second bottle. |
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2005 - Mcprice Meyers Wine Co Grenache Grenache |
EXCELLENT! |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| This wine blew me away. At $30 a bottle - buy every bottle you can get your hands on. I only bought 2 and it was sold out by the time I went for seconds. The blueberry fruit explodes into your mouth and is so obvious, its like drinking blueberry juice! The wine is medium to full bodied, and delivers an excllent length after swallowing. This wine is meant for immediate consumption but should last 6+ years easily. |
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2006 - Massolino Dolcetto d'Alba Dolcetto |
Good by Itself |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| I thought this was one of the few Italian wines that I've had that could be enjoyed by itself. It does need about an hour to breath first, but then watch out! The strawberries and carmelized mushroom flavors pour down your throat screaming: "Drink More!". And you will! |
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2004 - Mondavi, Robert Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
Great Stuff |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| The vanilla oak is the drinving force of this wine, but it's not over-the-top or in your face like a lot of other cabernets. The wine has velvety tannins and covers your whole palate with cherries and tobacco notes. This is wine that will age for a good 10+ years. |
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2003 - Amisfield Pinot Noir Pinot Noir |
NEW ZEALAND SAYS HELLO! |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| I really enjoyed this pinot from the Kiwi's. Overall it had a wonderful structure and good balance to the wine. The earthy undertones carry the strawberry and raspberry fruit all the way down your throat. Earthier style will either make you love this wine or hate it. I loved it as a nice change of pace! Decant for at least an hour. |
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2003 - Fetish Wines Playmates (Shiraz/Grenache/Mourvedre) Proprietary Blend |
Sexy But Not that Sexy |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| This Playmate isn't quite as good looking as she thinks she is. The label is neat but the wine is just ok. The fruit is typical Australian Shiraz fruit bomb and spice but this wine gives into the oak too much and is a little flabby on the midpalate. Good Producer though. |
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2004 - Scarlatta Pinot Grigio Pinot Gris |
Good with Food |
| May 29, 2008 |
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| Crisp clean pinot grigio with light undertones of lime and citrus fruit. Any oak seems to be hiding pretty well, and that makes this a much more refreshing and enjoyable wine. This wine still needs food to reach its full expression. |
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2003 - Hess Collection Chardonnay Monterey Chardonnay |
What Can I say - It's Monterey! |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This wine does a good job of display its terroir. Unfortunately I'm not a big Monterey fan. However, if you like a smokier chardonnay with a good amount of oak and cooler fruit flavors - then this is a chardonnay for you! |
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2003 - Hess Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Good Value |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| The wine is ok, not great but certainly pleasing enough for the price point. I enjoyed this wine on past vintages, but 2003 was a rough year for California cabernet and its reflected in this wine. The nose is nice with warm fruit hitting your nose, but the palate is a little too oaky for me. Good for the money though. |
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2006 - R Winery The Bitch Grenache Grenache |
Bitching! |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| While this is a fun wine to give as a gift (Funny or Mean), the wine itself is pretty solid for the price. It's a very basic grenache with pretty high alcohol and lots of fake dark fruit - think blueberry and plums but more like candies in the shapes of plums and blueberrys. |
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2002 - Green Point Shiraz Syrah |
Excellent Wine |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This wine wins value of the year! (Well back when it was released anyway) The dark fruits of blueberries, raspberries, and fully ripened strawberry come across the palate smooth in a blanket of sweet smoke and premium nuts. This is a wine to impress your friends. |
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2004 - Gemtree Vineyards Shiraz Bloodstone Syrah |
Yum |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This wine was clean and fruity. It wasn't too jammy like another wine of theirs I've sampled, but it did have good smooth berry fruit. The oak takes it down a notch for me, but overall it delivers enough fruit that you can forget about the flaws. |
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2000 - Groote Post Sauvignon blanc Sauvignon Blanc |
Dry Sav |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This was a very dry Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa. The fruit is very light and somewhat submissive to the dried oak flavors. This wine is a miss for me as a whole, except that it would be good to cool down with on a summer night. |
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2006 - Sea Smoke Cellars Pinot Noir Ten Pinot Noir |
Great Stuff! |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| Just got a bottle of this two days ago and I couldn't wait to taste it! The fruit was so silky and yet fills your mouth and gives amazing complexity. This wine will continue to develop over the next 20+ years. But I say enjoy it now!! |
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2002 - Gemtree Vineyards Shiraz Paragon Syrah |
Too Jammy |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This wine takes the fruit and alcohol a little too far. I think even most fruit bomb lovers (including myself) will be off put by the big jaminess and warmth of this wine. This would be hard to pair with anything that wasn't heavily seasoned. |
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2003 - William Hill Cabernet Sauvignon Silver Label Cabernet Sauvignon |
Silver Medal |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This wine surprised me with its nice currant flavors and floral aroma. It smelled like a garden of hundreds of flowers, yet it still had the strength of a big boy Cabernet. It was more medium bodied overall, but its an interesting wine that will surprise you taste buds. |
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2003 - Summers Petite Sirah Petite Sirah |
Plum Wine! |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This wine was as dark as a wine could get, and the plum flavors dominate the palate. I don't mind plum, but as a dominate flavor it's a little bit much for me. The oak is subtle and there is some blackberry notes but still too much plum for me. |
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2006 - Cline Cellars Red Truck Red Proprietary Blend |
Not Bad |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| The cherry and and warm strawberry jam flavors are on the nose and palate. This is a candy wine with extremely fake fruit that lets your palate know this is just an everyday wine, not for serious consumption. |
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2006 - Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc |
Excellent! |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| It's sooooo over the top, but I still love it. The wine has beautiful fruit that covers your entire palate with melons, grapefruit, starfruit, lemon, and even some hints of pineapple. This will turn a lot of people away for being to over the top on the fruit and coming across as sweet - but I love it! |
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2006 - Pepperwood Grove Viognier Viognier |
No Character |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| I have to disagree with previous comments. This wine to me just fell flat on its face. Maybe I had a bad bottle, but the fruit was so thin that it was almost like flavored water. The wine itself was som weak that any acidity or crispness it had was gone in seconds. Pass. |
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1999 - Cypress Merlot Merlot |
Junk Wine |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| Mass produced and hideous. Tasted like "The back of an LA school bus". This was really terrible even for the money. Skip this wine despite any urge to give it a chance! |
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2004 - Gemtree Vineyards Shiraz Syrah |
Value |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| I enjoyed this wine based on the price range. This would be an easy wine to recommend to others to use as an introductory wine to expand their palate for a small amount of coin. Its a little bit over the top but it keeps itself in check with a nice amount of acidity. |
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2001 - Badia a Coltibuono Chianti Classico Roberto Stucchi Sangiovese |
Good For Pizza |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This was a very nice and acidic wine that needs food desperately to work for your enjoyment. I guess I harp on Italian wines, and there are some great ones out there, but again they all need food to really enjoy. Strawberries and chalky tannins stand out. |
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2002 - Smith Wines, W H Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
Awesome Value |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This is an excellent value for a California Pinot Noir! This is a high end producer of pinot noir, and their wine is almost at a cult status. The fruit is clean and cool over the palate with a little bit of a blast on the finish. Drink Now. |
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2001 - Silverado Vineyards Sangiovese Sangiovese |
Why? |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| Why grow Sangiovese in California is my first question. It just has never made any sense to me. Also no one seems to do it well. This wine is no exception. The wine is ok as a table wine for pizza but its not as good as so many Italian wines that are less expensive and more interesting. |
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2004 - Gavilan (Chalone) Pinot Noir Estate Pinot Noir |
Smooth |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| I liked this Chalone pinot more than I have enjoyed other vintages of this particular wine. Strawberries and cinammon stick out on the palate and smooth velvet tannins are a welcome surprise. |
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2003 - Batailley Bordeaux Blend |
Excellent |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This is another fruit forward, almost fruit bomb from the warm 2003 vintage of bordeaux. The cherry and cassis stand out on the palate and the terroir shines in the background on the finish of this wine. The best part is its ready to drink now after decanting for a couple of hours. |
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2000 - Iron Horse Chardonnay Cuvee Joy Green Valley Chardonnay |
Good? |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| My old tasting notes say that this was an exciting wine but wouldn't be in about 3 years. So that means this wine was probably peaking when I pop'd it and its time has passed. Notes say good structure, sweet melon. apple and pear on nose. |
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2003 - Lagrange St Julien Bordeaux Blend |
Great Wine |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| Excellent structure on this fruit forward Bordeaux. The fruit really explodes on this wine, which is uncommon for this producer and bordeaux in general - must be the warmer weather for the vintage. Enjoy over the next 10 years - after that I'm not sure it won't fall apart. |
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2004 - Santa Barbara Winery Pinot Noir Reserve Pinot Noir |
Bad Compared to Others |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This was one of the better wines they made in my opinion, when we tasted at the winery. However there are hundreds of other Santa Barbara wines that I would choose over this one. The fruit is a little too light for my taste and the wine disappears as soon as you drink it. |
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2004 - Santa Barbara Winery Sauvignon Blanc Reserve Musque Sauvignon Blanc |
Pass |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This is somewhat better than the chardonnay that they produce, but still not worth your time. The fruit is weak pineapple and grapefruit, smoothered with fake vanilla oak. Alcohol too high as well. |
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9998 - Santa Carolina Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon |
Mass Produced Junk |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| Not for my tastes. I hate to bash a producer but this wine was simply awful. It lacked any sense of structure or balance and just tasted like alcoholic cool-aid that had been drenched in oak barrels. |
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2006 - Santa Carolina Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Pass |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This wine barely gets 2 stars. This is a newer wine that is being promoted like crazy in all of the publications. The chardonnay is barely there with butter and oak dominating the palate of the masses. |
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2006 - Santa Carolina Sauvignon Blanc Reserva Sauvignon Blanc |
Best of the Bunch |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This was my favorite of the Santa Carolina wines I tasted at a tasting their distributor put on at my local wine shop. I would still say that this was a pass, but not as big a miss as the other wines of this vintage. Somewhat refreshing on the palate is the biggest plus. |
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1997 - Penfolds Grange Syrah |
Well.... |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| it was an amazing experience, and I wouldn't have ever told the person who poured it for us, but this was just ok. It was a complex wine, and certainly one of the most complex Australian wines I have ever had, but overall it didn't blow me away like I thought it would. Pass for the money. The dark red fruit was wrapped around a strong core of pepper and smoke. |
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2002 - Signorello Vineyards Chardonnay Founder's Reserve Unfiltered Chardonnay |
Salmon Wine |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This was a nice match with the Salmon and asparagus we had. The seasoning on the salmon was a strong lemon zest and the chardonnays bright fruit and oak was a nice contrast to that. |
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2004 - Silverado Vineyards Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Typical |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This is yet another typical California Chardonnay, so I can't recommend it. However, the oak and apple flavors work slightly better than most, yet the price difference knocks it back down. The butter is still too much but overall the fruit does shine through. |
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2004 - Silverado Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Limited Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
Excellent! |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| Silverado gets a gold medal for this wine. It has everything that you would want from a high end Cabernet - the fruit is big and set to last, the tannins are tight but ease after a couple hours of decanting, and the vanilla oak is well integrated into the wine. Price will scare some away, but it delivers in my opinion. |
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2002 - Lynch Bages Bordeaux Blend |
Good Wine - Off Year |
| May 28, 2008 |
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| This is another example of a steal in Bordeaux. The other reviewers but this at 4+ stars, which I can understand, but previous vintages of this wine are better. However, for 2002, this is great quality and the expression of cedar, plum, and stone really come through on this wine. |
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2001 - Conn Creek Merlot Merlot |
Good |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| Nice Merlot - nothing exceptional about it, but it has a good balance and nice acidity for a California Merlot. Dink with a nice chicken dish and enjoy the earthy tones and good medium body. |
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2003 - Guenoc Langtry Meritage Proprietary Blend |
Decent |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| The oak is a little dominate in this wine as well, compared to the white blend of the same producer. But this wine has a little more character than the white and more than that, the fruit is fresher and more abduntant. |
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2003 - Guenoc Langtry Meritage White Wine Proprietary Blend |
Nothing Special |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| Had this paired up next to the red wine blend of the same producer about a month ago. A friend of mine is a big fan of their wines but I've never been blown away. The white was crisp but lacked the overall fruit flavor that it needed to balance out the oak. |
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2000 - Bel Air, Margaux Bordeaux Blend |
Good For Price |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| Basic flavors and a little too green and light for my tastes. The tannins hit your palate in a very unpleasant way. Try with a steak that isn't too heavily seasoned and this wine should do ok. Better wines in this vintage. |
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2001 - Bel Air, Margaux Bordeaux Blend |
Duplicate |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| This taste just like the 2000 vintage. Not Impressive, and its eerily the same as the 2000 wine. Dry fruit high tannins, very light bordeaux wine that can't stand up to a big steak. |
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2004 - Firestone Gewurztraminer Gewurztraminer |
Joke |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| This wine was bad in just about every way it could be, but some might enjoy it as a wedding wine. The price is too high and the wine is to average to write anymore. |
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2004 - Artesa Chardonnay Los Carneros Chardonnay |
Good Chard with a Bite |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| This lovely Carneros Chardonnay has a bit of a bite to it. The earthy undertones of this wine really make it a force to be reconciled with. The crisp fruit of apple and apricot really come through on the palate. |
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2000 - Moon Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Franc Cabernet Franc |
Green Winw |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| Green bell pepper, and slight jalepeno flavors dominate the palate, this is certainly not a wine for everyone. Overall the fruit is ok but plays second fiddle to the green flavors. |
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9998 - Moon Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
Too Green |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| The cab franc is really green but its suppose to be.- this wine is not suppose ro be this green. The fruit is lacking to the point that I can't even discern the rest of the wine. Too much oak is just one more reason to not enjoy it. |
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2004 - Novy Family Wines Syrah Santa Lucia Highlands Syrah |
Novy is Groovy |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| Wonderful syrah, a big boy of a wine that packs a significant amount of punch. This wine has the big red fruit and tannins that may scare some people away, but I enjoyed it. |
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2004 - Produttori di Barbaresco Barbaresco Montestris Nebbiolo |
Mushrooms |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| Exotic Mushrooms are stout on the nose with a beautiful aroma of freshly cut strawberries and dried apricots. The wine is a little bit chewy on the finish but overall it was a nice surprise. |
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2000 - Spinifex Indigene Proprietary Blend |
Too Expensive |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| The fruit explosion of cherries, plum and more plum. Sounds good but its just ok. This wine falls flat on the finish, and the fruit gets soft after about 2 hours. Too expensive. |
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9998 - Jones, Trevor Jonesy Tawny Port Port |
Good and Creamy |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| Very Creamy Port wine that delivers a delicious Root Beer Float like flavor on the palate. Much lighter than I expected but overall good structure and a great buy for the money. |
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2003 - Dunham Cellars Three Legged Red Proprietary Blend |
Good Vino |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| Good vino is almost assured when it comes out of Dunham Cellars, a bold statement yes, but overall it delivers dark rich fruit, plum, cedar, and olive. The wine is all over your mouth and makes you pucker. |
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2003 - Dunham Cellars Trutina Proprietary Blend |
Solid Wine Great Price |
| May 27, 2008 |
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| This is an excellent value from Washington. This is another example of why I love Dunham Cellars. The fruit is again darker and fuller than most california blend wines. It stops you right in your tracks with its ripeness and power - drink with a big steak! |
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2005 - Wachau, Domane Riesling Smaragd Trocken Weisskirchner Prager Riesling |
Delicious |
| May 26, 2008 |
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| How do you say delicious in German? Wachau, Domane Riesling Smaragd Trocken Weisskirchner Prager Riesling - that's how silly! Nice fruit of apricot, peach and apple with pear undertones all pour through your mouth with a nice crisp feel! |
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2004 - Talley Estate Estate Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Big Chardonnay |
| May 26, 2008 |
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| I expected this wine to be a little more on the softer side but it was a full throttle chardonnay. Overall the fruit is solid and not overshadowed by any oak flavors. Apple, pears and more apple dominate the palate. |
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2003 - Talley Estate Estate Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Pass |
| May 26, 2008 |
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| The price makes this vintage a big pass in my opinion. This wine went too far into the dark side of California Chardonnay with the oak, butter and alcohol. Try the following vintage for a better showing. |
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2005 - Mollydooker The Scooter Merlot |
Good |
| May 26, 2008 |
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| A little higher alcohol coming through on the palate compare to the other Mollydooker wines, but still a solid effort that is worth seeking out. Just make sure you get the shiraz first. |
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2006 - Mollydooker Goose Bumps Sparkling Shiraz Syrah |
Beautiful and Unique |
| May 26, 2008 |
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| This wine really blew me away and it was an amazing experience. The fruit was outstanding, the crispness of this wine made it extremely easy to enjoy surrounded by beautiful strawberries and carmel. |
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|
2004 - Hangtime Chardonnay Edna Valley Chardonnay |
OK |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| Not good - not bad - just the same as every other California Chardonnay. The main fault with this wine is that it's boring and doesn't have any originality in its style. Pass for something more unique. |
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|
2006 - Hangtime Pinot Noir Arroyo Seco Pinot Noir |
Pair with meats |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| This pinot packs a punch. It has wonderful strawberry flavors surrounded by earthy undertones and nice nut flavors on the finish. This is a big pinot that is better suited for a light meat than a fish dish. |
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|
2004 - Carter Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
Excellent |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| Wonderful bottleof California Cabernet, that will benefit from some extra bottle age. I would have to say the cherries on this wine are so delicious and obvious, that everything else seems tame in comparison. |
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|
2005 - Taz Vineyards Pinot Noir Fiddlestix Vineyard Pinot Noir |
Interesting Pinot |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| This pinot tasted like black cherry cola to me, minus the carbonation. The acidity is pretty high on this pinot but the darker fruit stands up to it pretty well. Drink over the next 6 years. This wine will prove to be more interesting while it's younger. |
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|
2003 - Andrew Will Syrah Annie Camarda Syrah |
Good |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| Good Syrah - slightly oaky for my taste but overall a very good wine. This is the type of wine that I wouldn't recommend due to the price but I had to try out of curiosity. The biggest shortcoming is the price tag. |
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|
2006 - Mollydooker The Boxer Syrah |
Excellent |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| Fruit Bomb City just got a new mayor. This wine has all the fruit you would need to last a lifetime worth of wine. Its over the top and it doesn't care. Pair this with any red meat or highly seasoned chicken. |
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|
2005 - Mollydooker Two Left Feet Proprietary Blend |
Great Blend |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| Smooth wine that covers your palate with gobs of fruit. The oak and fruit might be too much for some. This wine is a little bit smoother than the shiraz that they produce, and slightly more refined. |
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|
2005 - Mollydooker The Violinist Verdelho |
Pass |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| For the money I would skip this Mollydooker. Overall, it just wasn't up to par with the red wines that they make. It was over oaked and the alcohol cuts the tongue too much. |
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|
2003 - Taz Vineyards Syrah Goat Rock Vineyard Syrah |
Good Syrah |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine is a little bit hard to remember because I had so long ago, but it was overall a very solid effort and it would compare well with any other cali syrah in the $40 and under category. The fruit was solid and the vanilla oak complimented this wine very well. |
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|
2003 - Bonny Doon Muscat California Vin de Glaciere Muscat |
Pass |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| This isn't a bad wine, it once again is just ok and flat as well. It doesn't stick around on your palate and it doesn't give you any flavors that would make you reach for a second glass. |
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|
2005 - Hahn Estates Cabernet Franc Cabernet Franc |
Good Fruit |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| I like this wine a lot for the price but just a little bit in general. Hahn continues to produce value driven wines in my opinion and this one is no exception. The bell pepper and smoke laced with cherries and dirt really come through over a smoky delivery. Drink now. |
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|
2005 - Brooks Pinot Noir Pinot Noir |
Lighter Pinot |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| Maybe lean is a better description than light, very mineral and dried cherry flavor on the palate. This is an earthier pinot than most I've had in Oregon, but it delivers good fruit and a very reasonable price. |
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|
2003 - Sebastopol Pinot Noir Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir |
Yum |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| Delicious pinot that packs a punch at the end. The length on this pinot is my favorite aspect. This starts off with very light strawberries and raspberries and then at the end explodes on the back of your throat. Drink Young. |
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|
2005 - Londer Vineyards Pinot Noir Paraboll Vineyard Pinot Noir |
Nice Pinot |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| This is a generous pinot blend wine from Anderson Valley which I enjoyed immensely at a dinner party. The fruit is more earthy and raw on the palate - followed by some mint and even a tiny amount of chocolate. Priced slightly higher than I hoped but not too much. |
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|
2004 - Arrowood Gewurztraminer Saralee's Vineyard Gewurztraminer |
Easy to Drink |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| Goes down smooth, with a nice fruit forward flavor that almost comes across almost as a sweet light desert wine. This wine has great acidity and balance. This should be enjoyed on a warm summers night. |
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|
2002 - Vall-Llach, Celler Vall Llach Proprietary Blend |
Best of Spain |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine was exceptionally delicious and delivered amazing complexity to the palate. This high end Spanish wine was a steal at closeout at my local wine shop, but at the normal price you would still get your moneys worth. Beautiful vanilla and strawberry and cherries and tobacco on the finish. |
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|
2001 - Dunn Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
Old School Cali Cab |
| May 26, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine reminds me more of the traditional way of making California Cabernet with lower alcohol levels and a more rustic mouth feel. The wine itself is good with nice red fruit and earth but the main attraction is the mouthfeel and somewhat old world flavors this wine produces. |
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|
2000 - Phelps, Joseph Insignia Proprietary Red Wine Proprietary Blend |
Good but Overpriced |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| Great fruit from this exceptional blend wine. The vanilla oak is also exceptional and well integrated into the wine and not dominating. This wine does shine in an off vintage but its still way overpriced. |
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|
1999 - Merryvale Vineyards Profile Proprietary Red Wine Proprietary Blend |
Solid Blend |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| Excellent wine built up as a bordeaux style blend that delivers a big punch. The fruit and tannins are well integrated together. This should last 15+ years easily and will probably bring out more nuttiness along the way. |
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|
2003 - Serene, Domaine Pinot Noir Yamhill Cuvee Pinot Noir |
Good Wine |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| Smooth yet plentiful on the tongue. This is a very well made and easy to enjoy pinot noir. Overall I would highly recommend this as a "bump up" wine going from $15 to $35 a bottle. This is well structured pinot with meat and jam. |
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|
2005 - Altesino Rosso di Altesino Sangiovese |
Better Than Prior Vintages |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| THe strawberries come through stronger on this vintage and the mushroom aroma is much more aromatic. Overall this a much easier wine to consume than the previous vintage. |
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|
2004 - Evans and Tate Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Step Backwards |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| The 2003 vintage of this wine was much more refreshing and smoother with the fruit and oak. The oak just dominates this wine way too much. It doesn't have the refinement of previous vintages which made it stand out. |
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|
1999 - Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon Lone Canyon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
Good Wine |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| Solid effort from Ladera. This is a big boy wine with a velvety texture, and cherries with hints of mint chocolate. This wine isn't quite as solid as later vintages but its still a pretty darn good bottle. |
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|
2004 - Turkey Flat Vineyards Rose Proprietary Blend |
Good Rose |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| This was another solid vintage of Rose wine from Turkey Flat. Again this is a very dry styled rose that would work great with barbeque on a summer night. The watermelon and cherry fruit dominate the palate. Very crisp. |
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|
2004 - Glen Carlou Chardonnay Reserve Chardonnay |
Crisp |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| Nice crisp wine that will work well with most foods. I am a big fan of Glen Clarou and the wines they produce. This wine is easy on the palate - light fruit and not over oaked. |
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|
2004 - Glen Carlou Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Nice Cabernet |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| Good structure and length out of this value priced cabernet. Outside of the US there are still lots of value cabernets and this is one of them. Perfect with a steak, the tannins melt away after decanting and the earth and fruit pour over the palate. |
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|
2005 - K Vintners Syrah Millbrandt Syrah |
Great Wine |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| I love K Syrah's and this one is no exception. Blueberry and raspberry flavors come through in gobs, but it still has wonderful acidity for a wine with this much going on fruit wise. Enjoy over the next 10 years. |
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|
2004 - Tapestry Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Good Not Great |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| Over oaked and lacking the character that I would hope for on a Cabernet. This wine is a little too hot and it wouldn't pair well with most foods. Drink now. |
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|
2005 - Four Vines Winery Anarchy Proprietary Blend |
Great Wine |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine was an explosion of dark fruit and complex earth tones. This is a fun wine more than anything else that doesn't take itself too seriously and yet its a wine that you should take serious considerartion in buying a case. |
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|
2004 - Four Vines Winery Syrah Lock Vineyard Syrah |
Great Wine |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| Another hit by one of the top up and coming producers of Paso Robles. The zinfandels may be the main show but Four Vines syrahs are slowly stepping up in stature. This wine has wonderful fruit and good length to let you enjoy it for a long time. |
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|
2003 - Ambullneo Vineyards Pinot Noir Bulldog Reserve Pinot Noir |
Pricey but Good |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| I bought this bottle on sale with my jjbuckley gift card, and it was a good buy. However, I wish I had cellared this for another 3 years minimum or at least decanted it for 6+ hours. The fruit is wonderful but still very tight. |
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|
2004 - Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Gary's Vineyard Pinot Noir |
Big and Beautiful |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| This is a fruit bomb of a pinot noir and some might hate this style, but I love it. The structure of this wine should turn the minds of old world style pinot to at least appreciate the complexity of this wine. |
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|
2004 - Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Amber Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir |
Another Home Run |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| This was the second Kosta Browne wine I had the privalage of tasting at a wine party and it was just as good as the first. The fruit pours over your tongue, striking it with strawberry jam and wonderful hints of cinammon and chocolate. |
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|
2003 - Kosta Browne Syrah Amber Ridge Vineyard Syrah |
Good |
| May 25, 2008 |
|
|
| The Pinots are amazing, this syrah is good but its not a Kosta Browne pinot. Very nice job overall - strong syrah, good fruit but overall its just overpriced for what it is. |
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|
2004 - Provenance Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
Excellent |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| Wonderful bottle of wine. The fruit is very well balanced with the vanilla oak and tight tannins. This wine will improve over the next decade, and will be interesting to see what other complex flavors come out. |
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|
2003 - Penfolds Bin 138 Proprietary Blend |
Value Driven |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| Basic and very fake but overall it delivers the $10 you spend on it. Its not a great wine, and of course you could find other wines that delivers the basic red fruit flavors - but Penfolds is easy to find. |
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|
2004 - Scarecrow Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Wish I could Buy More |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| The price tag makes it hard to get more than one bottle, but I wish I could. The fruit and earth in this wine are amazing. The vanilla oak is a perfect compliment. This wine will last for 15+ years. |
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|
9998 - Gruet Brut Rose Proprietary Blend |
Not Bad For Pink Sparkling |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| This isn't as good as the blanc de blanc but its still pretty solid for the price, especially since pink sparklers are typically more expensive. The alcohol is little to obvious and the fruit could be a little more round on your palate, but good effort. |
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|
2005 - Pascual Toso Pascual Toso Malbec Malbec |
Good Value |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| Pair this with a steak and thank the winery for producing a wine that is as good as your steak and costs the same. The nice dark fruit and plum flavors go over very well on the tongue. Thick wine, but again with a steak its great. |
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|
2004 - Concannon Petite Sirah Limited Release Petite Sirah |
Better Than Expected |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| Pair with a steak or wild game with a lot of spice. This was better than the following years 2005 performance but still not an unbelievable performance. Dark plum and olive oil dominate the palate. |
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|
9998 - Foxen Vineyard Pinot Noir Seasmoke Vineyard Blocks Q And U Pinot Noir |
MMMMM |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| Very well made wine with a nice kick at the end. This is a very unique pinot from Foxen. The nuttiness and strawberry flavors pour out on the nose. The palate is smooth and earthy at the same time. This is an old world lovers wine. |
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|
2005 - Massena Shiraz Epsilon Syrah |
Good But overpriced |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| You can find this exact same shiraz in the $15 and under price range of Australian shiraz. Its less of a fruit bomb than most, but still fruit forward with nice pepper. Drink over the next 5 years. |
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|
9998 - Montes Alpha M Proprietary Blend |
Overpriced |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| Sorry but Chile doesn't produce wines that should command this price. None that I've had anyway. The oak and cherries and dirt are all too familiar with every other wine from Chile. This one will just last longer. |
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|
9998 - Gruet Brut Blanc de Blancs Proprietary Blend |
Crisp Va;ue |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine was a nice value that I would recommend to friends. It's not the best wine I've ever had but for a value sparkling wine its reliable and it has a good expression of fruit and sourdough. |
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|
2003 - Copain Wines Syrah Broken Leg Vineyard Syrah |
Off wine from Copain |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| Great producer, less than stellar wine. The fruit is lacking and dominated by smoke and tar flavors. The length is gone right after you taste the wine. This wine has nice color and that's about it. Pass for the price. |
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|
2004 - Schrader Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Original Tokalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
Perfect |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| It isn't cheap but its worth every penny. Beautiful wine, the structure, the balance, the fruit, the oak, the tannins - everything comes together perfect. If you can find this wine and can afford it - buy it. |
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|
9998 - Torbreck The Steading Proprietary Blend |
Great |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| The only reason this didn't get four stars was the price. Now, I don't know if there are wines in the lower price category that match the quality of this one, but still its an expensive bottle. Dark fruit and smokey herb. |
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|
2006 - Smith Wines, W H Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
Smooth |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| Smooth fruit flavors on this very hard to find pinot. This is an unbelievable bottle of wine for $25 - especially for pinot noir. Cool wine with unbelievable acidity for the price. |
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|
2004 - Renwood Zinfandel Old Vine Zinfandel |
Pass |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine is fine but there are other Zinfandels that I would much rather buy. The jammy furit and the oak don't mesh well and the alcohol is all over your palate. Try Ridge or Rosenblun wines instead. |
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|
2002 - Hobbs, Paul Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
Good Wine |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| The dark plum and chocolate flavors shine in this wine. It may be a bit too powerful for some, but overall it is well balanced and pairs excellent with a steak! Very terroir driven. |
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|
2000 - Merryvale Vineyards Chardonnay Silhouette Chardonnay |
Nice Wine |
| May 24, 2008 |
|
|
| Smooth vanilla and light earth are my favorite characteristics of this high end California chardonnay. The alcohol is noticeable but not overbearing. However I would drink this wine now, as it may become flabby later on. |
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|
1999 - Moet Chandon Dom Perignon Champagne Blend |
Creamy |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This seemed to be a more creamy Dom than what I've had in the past. Overall, I thought this brought more crispness than prior vintages. The orange flavors mentioned in other reviews is right on the money and not something I've tasted before in Dom. |
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|
2003 - Scavino, Paolo Barolo Nebbiolo |
Well Done |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This is an excellent Barolo - a little bit pricey but still very competitive with what other wineries charge. Nice light cherries, seasoned mushrooms and light mint come through on the nose and palate. Hold for a few years/ |
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|
1995 - Simi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
Beautiful Wine |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine blew me away with its complexity after aging 10+ years. The tannins were as smooth as they can get and the cedar notes had integrated perfectly with this wine. Wish I had 10 cases! Wish all wine aged like this. |
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|
2006 - Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc |
Nice and Crisp |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| The biggest surprise of the wines I was tasting two weeks ago was this wine. It was expected to be a NZ fruit bomb and instead it was crisp and drier than expected. The fruit is lovely, just not punching your throat like other NZ sav blancs. |
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|
2004 - Prum, Joh Jos Riesling Kabinett Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling |
German Wine - So Fine |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This is a beautiful example of German reisling. Also, this producer consistantly brings in the highest quality products. This paired excellent with my lemon seasoned salmon but would have been better with white fish. Crisp with excellent acidity and wonderful fruit. |
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|
2004 - Bodegas Borsao Tres Picos (Tempranillo) Tempranillo |
Great Value |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| The fruit on this wine is second to the vanilla oak like a lot of lower end Spanish wines in my opinion, but this wine does shine for the price. The strawberry and blackberry flavors are subtle but very nice. Drink now. |
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|
2003 - Terrazas de Los Andes Malbec Reserva Malbec |
Good not Great |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine is a little too acidic for my tastes, and makes your tongue feel like it was cut with a knife made of dirt. The fruit is there, but its buried under the cheap immitation terroir flavors that seem to have been manipulated. Still would work well with steak. |
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|
2004 - Spice Route Pinotage |
Wonderful |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This is an excellent example of pinotage. The fruit is not overpowered by the cedar and cinammon flavors that shine from the get go. This is a wine that some might hate so beware, but for my money its an interesting wine with style. |
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|
9998 - Taylor Twenty Year Tawny Port Port |
Nice |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| Good Port, that most should be able to fall in love with. A little bit simple to me compared to other ports in this price range, but easy to find and a very safe choice. Chocolate, rasins, carmel and black liquorice. |
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|
2005 - Elk Cove Pinot Gris Pinot Gris |
Pass |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| I saw 5 stars and I had to laugh. There's nothing really wrong with this wine, but its just your average pinot gris. Everyone has their own palate and this would work well with most lighter foods, but its lemon, grass and alcohol. And not much else. |
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|
1998 - Lewis Cellars Syrah Syrah |
Excellent Bottle Bad Year |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This Lewis Syrah excels in an off year for california. The dark red color grabs your eye and thrashes your palate with cherries and strawberries and blueberries. Drink now. |
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|
2004 - Thorn-Clarke Shiraz Milton Park Syrah |
Good Value |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| VALUE! That's the biggest upside to this wine. The big Aussie fruit and pepper shine on this bottle as well withjust a hint of cranberries. Drink over the first 5 years, but if you can't find this one, grab the next vintage. |
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|
2004 - Bodegas Borsao Garnacha Tres Picos Grenache |
Disappointed |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| I thought that based on Parkers 91 points, that this wine would be a steal, but it fell way short of my expectations. Plum and sweet cherries are the high points, but the oak and alcohol ruin this wine for me. Still delivers for the price point. |
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|
2002 - Provenance Merlot Merlot |
Buy the 2001 |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This was a disappointing step down from the 2001 vintage of this wine, The Carneros fruit was still there and the meatiness showed up again, but overall it was out of balance and a little too high on the alcohol flavors. |
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|
2005 - Altos Las Hormigas Bonarda Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda |
Great Value |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This is a wonderful value driven wine from Argentina. The flavors of light cocoa and plum dominate with a cedar box finish. Drink with any wild game or boar. |
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|
2003 - Lake Breeze Grenache Grenache |
Overpriced |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine is a fine example of Australian styled Grenache with a little extra earth and meat. However, its not anything special and would only be worth recommending if it was a value. |
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|
2001 - Masi Amarone della Valpolicella Campolongo di Torbe Proprietary Blend |
MMMM |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| After dinner wine - I can't imagine pairing this with food but I'm sure it could be done. Sweet raisins coat your palate along with bitter dark chocolate. This tastes like sophisticated raisinettes. Enjoy. |
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|
2005 - Concha y Toro Carmenere Casillero del Diablo Reserve Carmenere |
Change of Pace |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| I like that this is a wine that most people haven't had and you probably don't see that often, what I don't like is the over oaked and dirt flavors that dominate the wine. Cherries are still there and some nice anise action on the backend, but otherwise its just ok. |
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|
2005 - Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel Zinfandel |
Value - Kind of |
| May 23, 2008 |
|
|
| Well its an inexpensive California Zinfandel and it delivers what every other wine in this price range delivers, and better than the cabs and merlots. However, its just a little to oaky and fake fruit to recommend. |
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|
2004 - Bodega Numanthia Termes Numanthia Tempranillo |
Hello Spain |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| Great wine - not quite ready for consumption, but it will be eventually. The coffee and vanilla bean flavors impressed me the most. I would recommend this wine to anyone who enjoys wine and has deep enough pockets. |
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|
2004 - Long Shadows Merlot Pedestal Merlot |
Dark Merlot |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| This is an incredibly dark merlot wine and it simply dominates your palate. This is probably going to surprise a significant number of people in a bind tasting as not being a cabernet. This wine will last a good 15+ years from today. |
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|
2004 - 75 Wine Co. Cabernet Sauvignon Amber Knolls Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
Great Value |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine way delivers over it's $20 price point. This is the kind of wine that gives you hope that California still has some value Cabernets. The cassis and rich cherry fruit slide through your palate wrapped in vanilla and very light hints of deer meat. Enjoy over the next 6 years. |
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|
2006 - Layer Cake Shiraz Syrah |
Nice |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| For the money hard to beat, but the 2005 was a little more refined, making it more enjoyable for my palate. Also the price did increase, so enjoy it now while its still under $20/ Massive Fruit Bomb with carmel and smoke coming off on the nose. |
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|
2004 - Mollydooker The Boxer Syrah |
Australia Says BOOM! |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| The fruit bomb just went off in your mouth and you don't know what to do next. Don't panic - everyone who has had a Mollydooker wine has felt this way. Rich Strawberries, raspberries and even some bluberries roll over your tongue and make you want more. |
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|
2003 - Ehlers Estate Merlot Merlot |
Nice Bottle |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| Literally a very nice bottle. The E is silver and looks pretty solid. The wine is also pretty solid. This is a more structured Merlot than most, and brings lots of enjoyment for the money. Drink Now. |
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|
2005 - Achaval Ferrer Malbec Malbec |
Awesome value |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| Tasted better on day 2 than day one - and day three was still excellent. This wine needs to breath 2+ hrs before even thinking about sampling- if you can wait 12+ hrs it will really pay off. Cocoa dust, vanilla, bing cherries and soft oak all come together for this wine. |
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|
2006 - Morgan Pinot Noir Twelve Clones Pinot Noir |
Not for the Price |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| Cola, strawberries and twigs/earth dominate the palate. There isn't a whole lot of structure on this very flabby wine. The alcohol is the biggest disappointment as it pops its head out one too many times over the fruit. Good Producer, bad wine. |
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2005 - Covey Run Gewurztraminer Gewurztraminer |
Get what you pay for |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine is fine to pair with asain cuisine or enjoy on a warm summer day, but it's a little too sweet and the fruit comes across a little too fake. Good for the money but not much else. |
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|
2005 - Finca Luzon Luzon Proprietary Blend |
Vanilla - Yum |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| This wine is silky smooth with vanilla dominating the palate. This spanish wine brings a ton of value, and makes you want to buy cases. Anyone can enjoy the simple fruit and balance of this wine. A little bit hot which takes it down a star for me. |
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2001 - Mondavi, Robert Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
Good Effort |
| May 22, 2008 |
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|
| The oak is the only thing that concerns me on this wine. It seems slightly over the top and covers up some of the really solid fruit. The tannins were smoothing out and this would be a great steak wine. |
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2005 - Simi Winery Zinfandel Zinfandel |
Pass |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| Simi should avoid making a zin. This isn't there strong spot anyway...The fruit was fake and overripe, overproduced and just all around mediocre. Drinkable yes - but stick to their cabs and merlots. |
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2005 - Bogle Vineyards Phantom Proprietary Blend |
Good Value |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
|
| Beautiful and huge bottle of wine. Worse case scenario you can dump the wine and use the bottle as a weapon. Gobs of dark fruit pours through your palate with a little bit of anise as well. This would pair well with wild game. |
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2004 - Justin Vineyard Isosceles Proprietary Red Wine Proprietary Blend |
Good Stuff |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| This wine isn't ready but when it is, it will be a great expression of wine making from Paso Robles. The body was too tight when we tasted it but everything is right there, from the fruit to the acidity to the balance. Give it time and enjoy. Price may be slightly high. |
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9998 - Rosenblum Cellars Zinfandel Vintner's Cuvee VIII Zinfandel |
Blah |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| Its fake fruit and oak that dominate the palate on this wine. More like you're drinking grape jelly. The price is low but the wine is still bad. Spend an extra $10 and try just about any other wine Rosenblum makes because they are a good producer. |
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2005 - St Jean, Chateau Fume Blanc Sauvignon Blanc |
What You Pay For - You Get |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| This was a simple wine I had at a tasting, that didn't seem to really impress anyone in my group. Having said that, it delivers your moneys worth or pretty close to it. Clean and Crisp but a little too light. |
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2004 - Altesino Rosso di Altesino Sangiovese |
Drink with Food |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| Like almost all Italian wines, it needs to food to be complete. The mushrooms and light strawberries are the best attributes, the oak and dust are the worst. Drink now or over the next 4 years. |
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2004 - Marquis Philips Sarah's Blend Proprietary Blend |
Good not Great |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| The value is the best thing about this wine. I love Marquis Phillips wines, but this one is a little bit too middle of the raod for me. It doesn't bring any exciting flavors that you can't get from other value shiraz. Drink now. Fruit Bomb haters walk away. |
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2001 - Miner Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
Strong Wine |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| My favorite thing about this California Cabernet was its strength. It brought a lot of power and structure to the palate. It was a solid bottle of fruit, oak and tannins. This wine should last 10+ years easily. |
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2002 - Cos d'Estournel Bordeaux Blend |
Solid for the Vintage |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| This was a very wet year for bordeaux and most wines reflected that with lighter, watered down wines. But this claret really steps it up in the face of adversity. Leather, cassis, and wet stone dominate the palate of this very cool claret. Good Buy. |
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1995 - Leoville-Barton Bordeaux Blend |
Treat |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| I was treated to this wine about a year ago from a friends cellar. It was quite delicious. The cedar box and cherries combined with smooth tannins and light vanilla cocoa demanded my attention and they got it. Drink now. |
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2005 - Mondavi, Robert Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Good Stuff |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| The 05 is almost as impressive as the 2004 but just a little bit less quality on this wine. Mondavi price is driven by the name so they usually have a hard time delivering the value but this wine does. The bold red fruit and smoky tobacco stand out. |
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2003 - Pride Mountain Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Overpriced |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| I love good Pride Cabernet, but this is an off year and a prime example of why the bordeaux pricing system can be better. The fruit is ok but not amazing and the oak is too much and hollows out the wine. Skip for the money. |
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2005 - Elyse Zinfandel Morisoli Vineyard Zinfandel |
Solid Wine |
| May 22, 2008 |
|
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| Nice Zinfandel, but then again Elyse usually delivers a quality product. This Zinfandel is overflowing with big berry fruit and vanilla cocoa. This wine may or may not improve with age but why wait? Pair with steak or Pizza. |
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2001 - Arrowood Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Solid |
| May 22, 2008 |
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| The cherries and currant always seem to be the main focus on Arrowood Cabernets, and this one is no different. The structure and depth of this wine however are its best features. Drink now or over the next 6 years. |
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2006 - Geyser Peak Winery Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc |
Crisp Wine |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| This wine was a good surprise. The oak is hidden under good fruit and nice structure. I would serve this to a group of friends on a warm summer night right before we had seafood. |
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2004 - Potelle, Chateau Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc |
Crisp and Clean |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| This california sauvignon blanc does a great job of refreshing the palate and not taking itself too seriously. This isn't a wine for everyone, and some might find the fruit a little bit lacking, but I prefer this style to the over oaked fruit bombs. |
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2004 - Seghesio Zinfandel Sonoma Zinfandel |
Good Zin |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| This was a nice surprise after a long slump of terrible wines that I had bought in the hopes of finding a jewel at a closeout - finally I gave in and openned a wine I knew should deliver and it did. Strong fruit pours into your nose and onto your palate. The berry flavors are sweetened by the vanilla oak. Drink now. |
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2005 - Leonetti Cellar Merlot Merlot |
Beautiful Wine |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| Washington saves the day with this outstanding Merlot from this outstanding producer. Merlot has never tasted better! The beautiful red silky fruit, and the explosion of currant in your mouth is awesome! Lay down for a few more years and it will really improve. |
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2002 - Kendall Jackson Chardonnay Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay |
Nothing Exciting |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| This wine was ok but it wasn't anything special. It wasn't that expensive, so I guess I got what I paid for, but not much more. Typical california chardonnay - over oaked and too much butter. |
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9998 - Mondavi, Robert Pinot Noir Napa Pinot Noir |
Ehh |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| I would pass on this one. Mass produced pinot from Mondavi is better than other massed produced pinots but still way too pricey thanks to the name, and the reserve is soooo much better for only slightly more. |
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2004 - Mondavi, Robert Merlot Napa Merlot |
Good to drink now |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| The Napa Cabernet made me think that this wine would really be a good buy, but the two only have a name in common. The oak comes out a little too much and takes away from what would otherwise be a pretty solid Merlot. |
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2005 - Serene, Domaine Pinot Noir Yamhill Cuvee Pinot Noir |
Good Pinot |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| Strawberry fields forever? This wine has the beautiful soft fruit that you want to see in California pinot, but it also has the body of a stronger meatier pinot. This should please new and old world lovers alike. |
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2003 - Chalone Pinot Noir Estate Pinot Noir |
Good Wine |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| Good Wine - not too light, plenty of strawberry fruit, little bit of earth in it. This seems like a more natural wine if that makes sense. I think most people would enjoy this with salmon. |
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2006 - Annie's Lane Riesling Riesling |
Good for guzzling |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| This wine was not too shabby except that it was a little bit too over the top. I could see this being a wine that newby drinkers would flock too instead of cheap chardonnay - as would I if I were them. The acidity was lacking and that took this wine down a notch. |
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2004 - Kaesler Shiraz Stonehorse Syrah |
Pepper Anyone? |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| NIce dark fruit shiraz, very typical of this producer. This is yet another shinning example of good wine at a good price. The pepper stands out to put it's signature on this Aussie Shiraz. |
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2001 - Newton Puzzle Proprietary Blend |
Puzzled? |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| The only puzzling thing about this wine is the price. It's a very straightforward wine with darker, smokier fruit that lasts on the palate like paint. This would work well with most wild game dishes. |
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9998 - Roederer, Louis Brut Premier Champagne Blend |
MMMM |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| Nice structure and nutty flavor to this NV champagne. It doesn't disappoint but it also does not blow me away for the price. Very creamy champagne with light toast on the back of the throat. Good Stuff. |
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2000 - Duhart-Milon-Rothschild Bordeaux Blend |
Too Wet |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| This wine was a little too wet and soft for my tastes. The color was solid which made the flavor very surprising. I could see why a lot would like this, but for my money I want a Bordeaux that will kick me in the teeth. This one didn't. |
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2001 - Provenance Merlot Merlot |
Toast |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| This is a nice wine with a good body and a bit of meatiness to it. This wine is certainley a Carneros wine and does a wonderful job of reflecting that terroir. More of a cabernet styled Merlot. |
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2005 - Turkey Flat Vineyards Rose Proprietary Blend |
Manly Rose |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| Dry baby Dry. This rose really comes together on the nose and then kicks you in the teeth with its dryness. Beautiful wine to serve with turkey or any Thanksgiving day meal - appropriate for its name. |
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2005 - Banrock Station Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Cheap wine that delivers! |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| For the money, you will have a hard time beating this wine. Yes its fake fruit and oak, but its still very crisp and balanced for the price point. This will most likely deliver just as much value as a lot of $20 california chardonnays. |
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2000 - Barefoot Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Terrible |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| Nothing worth writting about. Austere, alcohol driven wine with no personality and no redeming qualities. Not worth spending anymore time discussing. Do not buy this wine. |
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2001 - Joullian Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Pass |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| Nothing too exciting and the price demanded screams for you to try anything else! The fruit is bland and the oak is too much. Drink with a steak that is really really bold and you might not notice the flaws as much. |
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2004 - Achaval Ferrer Quimera Proprietary Blend |
Good Wine Nice Price |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| This almost delivers the same quality malbec that a lot of other producers bring at $45+ a bottle. The cocoa and rich cherry and tobacco flavors shine through as a perfect example of Malbec from Argentina. |
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2004 - Badger Mountain Syrah Organic Syrah |
Deer Wine |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| Kill a deer and make a wine out of him or her - then pour smoked strawberries and nuts on him or her and drink. Hey - you didn't have to do all that - you could have just bought this wine! |
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2004 - Provenance Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
Perfection |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| Smooth wine that leaves you kicking yourself that you didn't listen to the wine consultant at the liquor store and buy more. Or was that just me. The cherry and cassis flavors linger on your palate until you forget you're drinking wine and think you're having a meal of delicious fruits. |
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2006 - Gnarly Head Old Vine Zinfandel Zinfandel |
Not so great |
| May 21, 2008 |
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| A little bit of a weaker Gnarly Head Zin, and the fruit is way too fakey. This is a table wine that disappoints. The alcohol isn't too terrible but the wine is flabby and needs to lose some weight! Drink now. |
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2003 - JC Cellars Syrah Haley's Reserve Rockpile Vineyard Syrah |
Perfect Syrah |
| May 18, 2008 |
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| Unbelievable! This syrah comes together in everyway possible The dark ruby red color, the berry fruits and vanilla that pack your nose and then on the palate the wine is full body and yet smooth as silk. Buy as much as you can find! |
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2001 - Hope Winery, Austin Syrah Syrah |
Disappointment |
| May 18, 2008 |
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| This shiraz is not a fruit bomb, and its not an elegant shiraz - its somewhere inbetween and its a disappointment. The earthiness is ok and the meatiness is somewhat appealing but the fruit is off and the balance is lacking. Pass. |
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2001 - Tapestry Shiraz Syrah |
Middle of the Road but Good |
| May 18, 2008 |
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| Good mouthfeel, smooth on the palate with a little bit chewiness at the end. The dark fruit and spice are the shinning points to the wine. It will pair well with chicken of just about any kind. |
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2001 - Meridian Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Good for Grocery Store Wine |
| May 18, 2008 |
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| Not a good wine, but good for a mass produced wine that you can find anywhere booze is sold. The alcohol is too strong and the fruit is too weak. Thats basically all I can say. |
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2004 - Turnbull Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
Solid Cali Cab |
| May 18, 2008 |
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| Great Structure is the best feature of this wine. It has the chops to last at least 10+ years and still feel like a younger wine. The cherries and anise are the dominate flavors, with tobacco and vanilla covered berries on the nose. |
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2001 - Nerthe, Chateau de la Chateauneuf du Pape Proprietary Blend |
Excellent! |
| May 18, 2008 |
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| This wine was really spectacular! It was a best in breed for Chateauneuf du pape in 2001 in my humble opinion. Approachable now - this wine will pay big dividends for those that are patient! Cool red fruit languishes on your palate and takes you right to France. |
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2001 - Conn Creek Anthology Proprietary Blend |
Good Blend |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| This wine has a little bit of a carmel feel on the tongue, with austere cherries and spice. This is an easy bottle of wine to pair with most meats. It wasn't quite the quality I expected for the price but still very good. |
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2003 - Foley Pinot Noir Barrel Select Pinot Noir |
Wonderful Wine |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| I must admit that I am a little bit biased when it comes to this wine. I had it with my Dad in Santa Barbara while we were on our Sideways trip. This wine was a great start to the trip and a very good value compared to other pinots at the store. The ripe red fruit, and light smokiness and truffles dominate the palate. |
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2003 - Babcock Syrah Syrah |
Too Light for Me |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| If you're looking for a very light (somewhat empty) syrah from California, then look no further. I could see how this style would be enjoyable for some, but I like my syrahs big, with lots of body and balance. Acidity is not my concern. |
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2003 - Franus Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Strong Wine with class |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| This wine was a very strong cabernet but the tannins were soft enough that more fruit came through than tannins. The wine itself was powerful yet graceful is the best way I can describe it. Maybe deserves 4 stars but it was quite a home run for $40. |
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2000 - Ristow Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Quinta de Pedras Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
89 Point Wine |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| This is another perfect example of a wine that just barely misses the mark for me. The fruit is a little too hidden and the tannins are a little too strong, but aging won't help this one too much. It's a good wine but skip for the price. |
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2004 - Hobbs, Paul Pinot Noir Pinot Noir |
Beautiful Pinot |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| This is a much larger pinot with darker fruit than most, but it pulls it of with ease. I wouldn't be surprised if they had snuck some syrah in there to boost the color. Raspberries, and strawberries play a melody down your throat. |
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2002 - Delicato Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Carneros Cabernet Sauvignon |
Almost but not quite |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| This is a perfect example of an 89 point wine. The fruit is there, the tannins are there, the balance is there, and yet its still a little bit off. A little too in your face and tight with the fruit and tannins. This wine screams at you when they should just use their normal voice of fruit and oak. |
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2001 - Terrazas de Los Andes Malbec Malbec |
Solid Malbec |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| Good body, powerful wine, and that's exactly what I want in a Malbec. The tannins were a little tight, but they should be open by now. Cocoa and cherries cover your mouth and make you want more. Serve with steak. |
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2001 - Barefoot Merlot Vin de Pays Merlot |
Crap |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| Just terrible. Musty earth, leaves, and crushed up stems dominate the palate. The wine is lacking fruit and overpowered by oak chips to be enjoyable. The price on this wine wasn't even that low - $15/ |
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2002 - Ahnfeldt Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Strong Cabernet |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| This wine has a lot of structure and backbone, but the tannins were a little too tight when I openned this bottle last year. Good cherry and cassis flavors roll over the palate surrounded by vanilla oak. |
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2004 - Yalumba Shiraz Viognier Y Series Proprietary Blend |
NIce Surprise |
| May 17, 2008 |
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| This was a very nice and crisp red wine, that was a very pleasant surprise for my palate. I loved the addition of viognier to this wine, which gave it a much more crisp and lively feel in the mouth. Nice dark fruit and great acidity. |
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2004 - Matua Sauvignon Blanc Reserve Sauvignon Blanc |
Good New Zealand |
| May 16, 2008 |
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| The fruit forward flavors hit you right from the start and caress your palate. This is a stunning bottle of white wine for the price tag. This would pair well with grilled chicken or white fish. Lots of citrus. |
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2002 - Bookwalter Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Nice Wine |
| May 16, 2008 |
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| This wine is a little hard to remember, but I know that it was very enjoyable and easy to handle on the palate. This was a very crisp red that is softer than cola but not as carbonated. Good with lighter red meats. |
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2004 - Concha y Toro Cabernet Sauvignon Marques de Casa Concha Puente Alto Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
Great Value |
| May 16, 2008 |
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|
| Unlike the Don Melchor, this wine delivers its price point and then some. This wine has the cherries, tobacco, dirt, and plum that make your tongue say - FEED ME A STEAK!! This wine is great with a meal or by itself. |
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2002 - Au Bon Climat Pinot Blanc Pinot Blanc |
Light Wine |
| May 16, 2008 |
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| This wine is a little bit too light, and yet the oak is still screaming at me. This is a wonderful poducer and I do enjoy this as a wine not too think too mch about, but it still disappoints when its all said and done. |
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2001 - Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Baisc Wine |
| May 16, 2008 |
|
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| This is a costco table wine if I've ever seen one. The grape jelly flavors are immature and don't bring a lot of power to the palate. Alcohol is ok but the oak is over the top. Pass for me. |
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2001 - Lange Pinot Noir Pinot Noir |
D-Licious! |
| May 16, 2008 |
|
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| Great pinot that is very smooth and full of strawberries and light nuts that fall gently on your palate. The wine itself could be seen as watery by some, but overall I believe this is just a light Oregon pinot that contains itself. |
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2003 - Haut Brion Bordeaux Blend |
Heaven in a Bottle |
| May 14, 2008 |
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| The color is perfect, the nose is intriguing, and then you taste it....Awesomeness Personified!! The coffee is my favorite aspect that stands out, but the fruit is all over t plae leaving a nice long finish. I expected different, because of this being a warmer vintage but this wine is very contained. Perfection. |
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1997 - Kunde Estate Merlot Merlot |
Cool Wine |
| May 14, 2008 |
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| This merlot had aged well when I pop'd it open about 2 years ago but it was definetly on the decline. It was very earthy for a merlot but it was still well rounded and it had a somewhat silky finish. Drink now. |
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2001 - Green and Red Vineyard Zinfandel Chiles Valley Zinfandel |
It's Wine? |
| May 14, 2008 |
|
|
| Not sure what to say about this zinfandel. t was a little too earthy for my tastes and a very hollow wine overall. There isn't a whole lot to say other than pass for me - try Rosenblum or Four Vines if you want quality zin. |
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2005 - Norton, Bodega Privada Proprietary Red Wine Proprietary Blend |
Good Table Wine |
| May 14, 2008 |
|
|
| This malbec does a nice job of bringing value to the table, but doesn't deliver too much further than that. This wine is full of meat and earth, but the cocoa that I love in Malbec is missing. |
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1998 - Dominus Estate Napanook Proprietary Red Wine Proprietary Blend |
off Year - off Wine |
| May 14, 2008 |
|
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| This wine was ok, but at $40 a bottle, there is no way you could get your moneys worth. The fruit was bland and the oak was overbearing. The wine is austere and tastes a little bit leafy. |
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2003 - Evans and Tate Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Nice and Crisp |
| May 14, 2008 |
|
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| This chardonnay is extremely crisp and cleanses your palate very well. You're expecting more oak and you get less, you expect less mnerality and you get more. Good Buy. |
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2001 - Gordon Brothers Family Vineyards Merlot Merlot |
Weak |
| May 14, 2008 |
|
|
| Cola and light fruit fruit dominate the palate, but the fruit is too thin and then cola is too carbonated. This is the only wine I've had from this winery and it did not inspire me to try another wine. |
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2001 - Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio Pinot Gris |
Ok - that's it. |
| May 14, 2008 |
|
|
| There are hundreds of pinot grigios that deliver the same quality for significantly less cash. This wine was way too light even for a pinot grigio in my humble opinion. More like water than wine. |
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1997 - Optima Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Past its Prime |
| May 14, 2008 |
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| This wine is past its prime and needs to be drunk now. Cedar and alcohol are taking over making this a flabby wine. Pir with a steak and a baked potato. Tannins have left the building. |
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2005 - Kaesler Stonehorse Proprietary Red Proprietary Blend |
Strong and Decisive |
| May 14, 2008 |
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| This wine is bold and it knows what it wants The palate is overrun with jobs of blueberries and raspberries. The alcohol kicks you in the head but doesn't drown out the fruit. Nice wine. |
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2002 - Norton, Bodega Malbec Malbec |
Decent Stuff |
| May 14, 2008 |
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| This is another wine that Norton does very well for the price. This is an excellent entry level Malbec from Argentina. The fruit is a little tight and gives in tothe earth flavors of dirt a little too much, but overall its a good table wine. |
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2001 - Pirramimma Shiraz Syrah |
Smoother Than Most |
| May 14, 2008 |
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| This shiraz has a little bit of clas up its sleeve. Smooth wine with nice pepper, and gobs of fruit. This shiraz doesn't go over the top as much as you would expect from a young shiraz. Darker fruit helps. |
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2004 - Folie a Deux Menage a Trois Rouge Proprietary Blend |
Fun Wine |
| May 14, 2008 |
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| This is a very unique wine with an obvious play on words for marketing purposes but that aside, it delivers a nice amount of red fruit that isn't over powered by oak or alcohol. Drink while young and enjoy at a dinner party. |
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2004 - Destino Chardonnay Chardonnay |
Big and Bold |
| May 14, 2008 |
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| This chardonnay taste it to the next level from where most california chardonnays leave you hanging. The butter and oak are there yes, but the alcohol is subtle and the fruit is crisp and cuts your palate. |
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2003 - Septima, Bodega Malbec Malbec |
Good for the Money |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| This is a great everyday wine that could be served with various red meat dinners. It doesn't have any depth to speak of but the smole, and cassis flavors are enough to pour for friends. |
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2004 - Septima, Bodega Malbec Malbec |
Stronger than the 2003 |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| This wine was slightly better than the 2003 in my humble opinion. It had a slightly better balance and the fruit seemed to pop out a little bit more with this wine. Also the cocoa was stronger as well. |
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2002 - Septima, Bodega Malbec Malbec |
Weakest of the 3 Vintages I've had |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| This wine seemed slightly weaker than the 2003 and 2004 vintages. There wasn't a whole lot of additional support to the weaker cherries and bark flavors. This is still a good wine for the money. |
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2001 - Trefethen Double T Napa Valley Red Proprietary Blend |
Forgetable |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| Nothing about this wine will stand out in your memory 3 months after having it. It disappears on the palate and it disappears from the mind. Basic california blend that doesn't bring any extra excitement. Dark fruit, with oak and expired cinammon. |
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2004 - Robert Hall Rhone de Robles Proprietary Blend |
Disappointment |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| This was suppose to be a powerhouse Paso Robles wine but it was anything but that. It was a weak lwo end syrah type blend that leaves you turning down a second glass. |
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2005 - Concannon Petite Sirah Reserve Petite Sirah |
Empty Alcohol |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| This wine was light grape jelly mixed with alcohol. The color wasn't even as dark as you would expect a petite sirah. This was a low priced wine that still cost way too much. |
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2001 - Beaucanon Merlot Merlot |
Just Alright |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| This merlot is middle of the line for me and not that aww inspiring. Beaucanon makes several value approachable wines and this one isn't too far off, but it isn't as big a bang for your buck as the Cabernet. The alcohol dominates too much is this wines biggest flaw. |
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2004 - Geyser Peak Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Oak and Spice and everything |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| mediocre. This wine was not as solid as I had hoped it would be. It definetley delivers on the $15 price tag but thats where the party ends. The cedar box dominates this wine making it hard to focus on anything else. |
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2004 - Rancho Zabaco Zinfandel Dancing Bull Zinfandel |
Ole Zin! |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| This basic table wine zin leaves one wanting a little bit more but not too disappointed for the money. Cherries and jam fruit are lighter and turn closer to the oak flavors. |
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2001 - Swanson Merlot Merlot |
Not too shabby |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| This merlot was a little more full bodied which I enjoyed and it has the flavor and length to impress even those who hate merlot thanks to sideways. This wine could easily pair up well with a steak. Strawberries and cherry sauce. |
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2002 - Strong, Rodney Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Weak Clai Cab |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| I have had Rodney strong on several different occasions and have never been overly impressed with any of their wines. Too mass produced and monotone for my tastes. This cab has the usual characters of oak and tabacco and cherries but not very well melded together. |
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2004 - Geyser Peak Winery Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc |
Basic but Good |
| May 13, 2008 |
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| This crisp savignon blanc was mostly impressive for its lack of fruit and oak. The fruit is there, its just more subtle unlike New Zealands Sav Blancs that tend to be Fruit bombs. The minerality and crisp apple remind me of great white bordeaux or sancere. |
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1995 - Arrowood Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Past its prime |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| This should have gotten 2 stars when I drank it, but I could tell that this wine had a lot more to it when it was younger than what I got to taste. It was tart, the fruit was a little too flabby and the oak cut the sides of my tongue. Drink now if you own it, but then again - aging it more probably can't make it worse. |
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2001 - Arrowood Domaine du Grand Archer Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Big Surprise |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| This was a wonderful summer cab that I enjoyed just as a tasting wine (it doesn't need any food). This is Arrowoods second label and the price drop helps a bunch. The chewy tannins, nice charcoal and cassis really shine on this wine with a balance of jammy red fruit. Easy drinking wine. |
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1999 - Arrowood Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Speciale Cabernet Sauvignon |
Pure Heaven in a Bottle |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| This wine was perfect from nose to palate to belly! The wine was soooo silky smooth, and the flavors of fruit just wrapped around my palate with a finish that stuck around for a very long time. I would love to try this wine in 10 years and see if it could hold up. But why wait? |
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1999 - Clos Pegase Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Nice Cali Cab |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| Very firm wine with wonderful fruit - could use a year more to open up, but it's still drinking well now. It's a big boy wine with a lot of different aromas pouring through the nose - mostly plum and coffee. Pairs well with and red meats, but I would enjoy with a steak. Great middle road Cali Cab. Good Producer. |
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1997 - Clos Pegase Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon |
Peaking |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| This wine may be past it's peak but it was still good when I had it about 2 years ago. Nice cigar box, cherries, chocolate and a little dirt with a little bit of chewy tannins on the finish. This would be a great summer cab - barbeque or anything on the grill. Good Producer but I would stick to younger vintages. |
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2003 - Silver Oak Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
Well if you like Silver Oak.... |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| then you'll think this is a 5 star wine. Silk tannins, smooth cigar box flavors with light cherry and strawberry on the palate. Alcohol is hidden and this isn't a bad bottle - but it ain't $60 either. Major pass from my point of view - but if someone else is buying...... |
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2002 - Chateau Gloria St. Julien Bordeaux Blend |
Off Vintage - On Wine |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| This is a prime example of where you can get a steal! This wine blows away every other merlot wine in the states at this price point. Is this the best wine ever - no, it falls short on the palate at times, and has a bit of a wet hollow feel to it from time to time, but overall it's smoky, with great acidity and wonderful plum and cherries. Buy a half case and thank me later. |
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2004 - Ste Michelle, Chateau Chardonnay Indian Wells Vineyard Chardonnay |
Join the Others |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| There's nothing wrong with this wine, it's well made, good butter, light crisp apple, slight oak, and even a little lemon. But it just strikes me as boring and not any different than every other over priced, over marketed Chardonnay out there. It's even overrated - I might be underrating to even the playing field, but I stand by my 2 stars. |
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9998 - Nino Franco Prosecco di Valdobiaddene Rustico Prosecco |
Good Buy |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| Sourdough bread, light citrus, and green apple shine through on this value sparkling wine. Can't afford Champagne? This is the place to be! Worth every penny of the $15 you will spend! Great wine to pair with some light fish apertizers. |
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9998 - Hardys Tawny Port Whiskers Blake Non Vintage Proprietary Blend |
Decent Port |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| This got huge reviews from some of the critics, but it fell way short of anything amazing to me. This is a good basic port wine, for $15 I would say is definetley worth trying, but it doesn't go much farther on the scale than any other port in that price range. Lots of nuts, sweet strawberries, raspberries and cinnamon sticks with very light cinnamon on them. |
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2001 - Martin Ray Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
Depends on the Price |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| I've seen the price on this wine vary from $30 to $80 - and it is not worth the latter. It's a good $40 and under california wine, but even then I think you could find other wines that are more impressive. Usual suspects of currant, vanilla oak and cherries show up but the greenness of this wine with the bell pepper and olives dominates a little too much for my palate. |
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2003 - Craneford John Zilm Shiraz Barossa Valley Syrah |
Structure in Shiraz |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| This shiraz has all of the usual characters you would expect from Australian Shiraz - pepper, spice, dark fruit, and hint of smoke. Oh yeah - and alcohol you feel and taste hidden by the fruit. However, the structure of this wine is what seperates it from other shiraz's I've had in this price range. Buy a bottle to compare - but not a case. |
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1999 - Constant Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
Bell Pepper Lovers will disagree... |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| This wine is 100% bell peppers! You can't get past it, you can't get around it, even after cellaring it, it dominates this wine. I can enjoy bellpepper in a wine but it needs to be subtle. This is a well made wine with good structure and will probably age well for longer than most Cali cabs, but I still don't like any wine that is this one dimensional - others have loved it - sooo you have to know you're own palate on this one! If you love Cab Franc - this is a wine for you! |
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2001 - Lohr Winery, J Cabernet Sauvignon Carol's Vineyard/Cypress Vineyard Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
Big Disappointment |
| Apr 23, 2008 |
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| A lot of people talked up this wine before I bought it, but man did it fall short. It's way overpriced in my opinion - J Lhor needs to stick to value wines. This thing was an oak bomb - it was like drinking a tree sprinkled with alocholic fruit sauce. Maybe I got a bad bottle - but after that experience who wants to try again? |
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2001 - Terrazas de Los Andes Cabernet Sauvignon Afincado Cabernet Sauvignon |
Good Wine |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| This wine is not quite as exciting as the malbec that this producer makes, but it is still a very enjoyable wine. This Cab would match up strongly against most California Cabs in this price range. Well structured, tight tannins, and earth and cherries on the palate. Some plum but not too much. Best with Steak. |
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2001 - Terrazas de Los Andes Malbec Afincado Malbec |
Malbec that's a sure Bet! |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| Great wine, maybe priced slightly higher than it should be, but it has wonderful dark red fruit that is surrounded by cocoa, dirt, and tobacco flavors that bounce around your palate. This is a great wine to pop with a flank steak! |
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2004 - Two Hands Shiraz Gnarly Dudes Syrah |
Pass due to Price |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| This was an ok wine at best in my opinon. Supposedly the grapes that miss the cut for Bella's Garden go into this wine, so I was very excited by the prospect of getting a less expensive but similar quality version of that wine. It wasn't even close. Ths isn't a bad wine, the fruit is there, and the alcohol isn't too over the top - but it's the same as a lot of other Shirazs that run under $15 in my opinion. So Pass due to Price in my humble opinion. |
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2004 - Laetitia Pinot Noir Pinot Noir |
Good Value |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| Strawberries and light smoke coat your palate from the first sip from this $20 pinot value. Great producer with a beautiful winery - stop in if you're in San Luis Obispo! They make lighter wines but they have good structure and enough character to sing it's praises at this price point. |
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2003 - Montes Chardonnay Reserve Chardonnay |
Basic |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| Nothing impressive, just a plain jane wine that doesn't really deliver anything you can't get from every other wine in this price range. Lots of fake oak dominate the wine and the pear and apple that does come through - shows up in a whimper. |
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2001 - Montes Cabernet Sauvignon / Carmenere Proprietary Blend |
Intro Chilean Wine |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| This is a very basic dirt, flowers, slight cherries, and more dirt Chilean wine. The tannins are a little tight and overall this is a wine that needs food to soften. If you're paying more than $10 - skip. |
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2001 - Lyeth Meritage Red Proprietary Blend |
Pass |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| Beautiful Bottle - Bad wine. You could argue this is a 2 star wine, but who really cares? It's an empty hollow wine, that delivers minimal fruit, and too much fake oak flavors. But it is a beautiful bottle. |
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2001 - Langhorne Creek Shiraz Syrah |
Ehhh |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| Not bad but just ehhh. It had some spice and a very jammy fruit that covered your palate, but it still seemed somewhat flat and it didn't stick around long enough to really command the price it asks for. I tried a bunch of these on closeout and they never changed my mind. OK table wine. |
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2004 - Two Hands Shiraz Lily's Garden Syrah |
Very Nice |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| This was a very big shiraz, bringing lots of pepper, jam, and a very warm mouthfeel. The alochol is definetely there but the fruit is pouring on enough to hide it. This is a massive fruit bomb - if that's not your style I would stay away from this New World Monster. It will probably settle down and mature somewhat over time. |
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1991 - Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon |
Wonderful Experience |
| Apr 22, 2008 |
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| This wine has aged beautifully. I was lucky enough to be around when my friend pop'd this open for his daughters graduation. It was one of the silkiest wines I have ever tasted! The fruit was so alive and integrated so well with the cedar oak flavors. The alochol was hidden in the wine, and it was just awesome to drink a wine 16 years old that had aged so well. |
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