| Year | Wine | Variety | Location | Price | Num | Rating |
| 1998 | Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 87 |
| 1996 | Ch. Canon-LaGaffeliere | Cabernet | R | | 3 | WS 89 |
| 2003 | Ch Grand-Puy-Lacoste | Cabernet | | | 5 | 91-94, 92 |
| 2003 | Ch La Tour Blanche | semillon | | | 3 | RP 96 |
| A light nose of pineapple and coconut. On the palate, very high levels of botrytis with a nutty, almondy note undeneath all that rich fruit. The acidity is a bit low but there is a very attractive peachy finish. Good potential. (19/25) Tasted again after bottling at the UGC in Oct-05. Another very attractive nose with pineapple and a scent that reminds me of custard sponge cake. The palate lacks a little botrytis but has a nice spicy, honeyed mid-palate. A little cloying on the marmalade tinged finish. Very fine. (20/25) |
| 1989 | Ch. Cos d'Estournel | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 95 |
| 1988 | Ch. Leovillle Las Cases | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 95 |
| 1998 | Ch. Bahans Haut Brion | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 92 |
| 2003 | Ch. Beauregard | Merlot | R | $50 | 3 | 20/25 |
| One of the dark horses of Pomerol, the nose is quite muted at first, before earthy black fruits and a touch of capsicum emerge. The palate had good weight and acidity, a dense, tightly coiled mid-palate with layers of glyercin-rich plum and cherry fruit. A nice savoury finish. Good length. Very fine. |
| 1995 | Ch. Bel Orme | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 86 |
| 1998 | Ch. Berliquet | Cabernet | R | | 4 | WS 90-94 |
| 1989 | Ch. Branaire Ducru | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 90 |
| 2003 | Ch. Branaire Ducru | Blend | | $74 | 3 | 93 |
| Purple. Brilliant sheen. Red and black currant notes. Crème de cassis. Vibrant. High Cabernet Sauvignon (72%) component, 20% Merlot, 4.5% Petit Verdot, 3.5% Cabernet Franc. As often, the most charming of the St. Juliens. |
| 1989 | Ch. Clerc Milon | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 96 |
| 2003 | Ch. Clerc Milon | Blend | | | 4 | WS 93 |
| 1982 | Ch. Cos d'Estournel | Cabernet | R | | 1 | RP 96 |
| 1986 | Ch. Cos d'Estournel | Cabernet | R | | 1 | WS 93 |
| 1998 | Ch. Dalem | Cabernet | R | | 1 | WS 88 |
| 2003 | Ch. Gazin | Merlot | | $76 | 3 | 16.5/25 |
| 1996 | Ch. Grand Puy Lacoste | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 90 |
| 1995 | Ch. Grand Puy Lacoste | Cabernet | R | | 6 | WS 92 |
| 2003 | Ch. Gruaud Larose | Blend | | $74 | 3 | 18.5/25, 91,92,93 |
| This is a truly exceptional Gruaud Larose. Recent vintages had suggested that Gruaud had a legendary wine just around the corner, but in 2003 they have really struck gold with one of the wines of the vintage. This could surpass the great Gruaud's of the past, like the 2000, 1990 and 1986. Only 40% of the total crop made it into the Grand Vin, incidentally leaving enough top quality grapes to make the best Sarget de Gruaud Larose I've ever tasted En Primeur. The nose has intense, intoxicating, spicy black fruit with powerful wafts of cedar and mint. The palate is even better, with massive fruit, immensely silky mouth-feel, minerals and classic Gruaud cigar box overtones. This really is a `must-buy' for any Bordeaux fan. Drink 2011-2035. |
| Pure cassis and raspberry sauce with vanilla. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and a finish that lasts a very long time. Awesome wine. This is very close in quality to the 2000. Score range: 95-100 - WS |
| 1989 | Ch. Haut Brion | Cabernet | R | | 6 | WS 100 |
| 2001 | Ch. Kirwan | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 90 |
| 2003 | Ch. La Conseillante | Merlot | | $105 | 3 | 19/25, WS 90, |
| Who says that the Left Bank produced the best wines in 2003? This is utterly sensational. The undoubted star of the Right Bank for us and contender for one of the wines of the vintage, Conseillante's intensely rich nose with bitter chocolate and violets, ripe and juicy black cherries and cedar is irresistible. The palate is equally compelling with beautifully-integrated new oak, seductive blackberries and cream fruit, layers of smoke and liquorice, and a finish that seemed to last all the way back to Bordeaux. But despite the expansive richness on display there is more to this wine than simple hedonism; this is never over the top, with a fine structure and subtle complexity. Surely the best Conseillante ever? Drink 2009-2030. |
| Violet, raspberry and kirsch aromas. Stands up for itself without being monstrous. A fine Conseillante. Mineral cocoa. Light, delicate and restrained. An evolved dark plum/garnet color is followed by captivating, sexy, raspberry, soy, Asian spice, kirsch liqueur, and toasty vanillin aromas. While not a blockbuster, this opulently-textured, medium-bodied effort is a model of elegance, harmony, finesse, and complexity. This wine's low acidity as well as wonderfully ripe fruit invite immediate consumption it should last for 12-15 years. |
| 1982 | Ch. Lafite Rothschild | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 97 |
| 1989 | Ch. Lafon Rochet | Cabernet | R | | 3 | WS 92 |
| 2003 | Ch. Lafon Rochet | Blend | | $49 | 6 | 16.5/25, WS RP 90 |
| Harvest went to October 4th, about the latest of the vintage. Exhibits sweet tannins around a core of iron. The late-picked Cabernet (60%) provides dimension and complexity. |
| Very exciting aromas of crushed blackberry and lightly smoky barrels. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a medium finish. A bit tight but balanced. 90 Points, Wine Spectator, March 31, 2006 |
| 1989 | Ch. Lagrange | Cabernet | R | | 1 | WS 95 |
| 1990 | Ch. Lagrange | Cabernet | R | | 1 | WS 95 |
| 1990 | Ch. Latour | Cabernet | R | | 3 | WS 100 |
| 1998 | Ch. Latour-a-Pomerol | Merlot | R | | 3 | WS 94 |
| 1990 | Ch. Le Bon Pasteur | Merlot | R | | 1 | WS 93 |
| 1996 | Ch. Leoville Poyferre | Cabernet | R | | 3 | WS 88 |
| 2003 | Ch. Leoville Poyferre | Blend | | $105 | 6 | 21/25, WS 95, RP 97/98 |
| From the least-known and certainly least-acclaimed of the three Léovilles, 2003 may well go down as the year that Poyferré vigorously reasserted itself in the talented hands of the Cuvelier family, fully justifying its status as a Second Growth. Made from 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot this wine exudes high-class sex-appeal. A great nose leads onto a palate of wonderful harmony and supreme elegance. The sweet fruit expresses itself like a Russian doll, with layer after layer revealing itself in a new way. With its enthusiastic and seductive embrace, this is a complete contrast to the other Léovilles; but is no less impressive for all that. One of the hidden gems of 2003. Drink 2010-2030. |
| Not, we thought, as some suggest, best of the Leovilles, but certainly the most fruit-forward. No mistake: a very good Poyferre. Smokey, rich black fruit. Sleek, silky, textured. Black raspberry, red currant, cranberry. Ultra-ripe. Moderate-length on finish. |
| 2001 | Ch. Les Canannes | Blend | llbo | | 3 | |
| 1988 | Ch. Lynch Bages | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 97 |
| 1990 | Ch. Lynch Bages | Cabernet | R | | 4 | WS 95 |
| 1998 | Ch. Malescot Expury | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 87 |
| 1986 | Ch. Margaux | Cabernet | R | | 1 | WS 98 |
| 1996 | Ch. Margaux | Cabernet | R | | 6 | WS 95 |
| 1986 | Ch. Mouton Rothschild | Cabernet | R | | 3 | WS 99 |
| 2002 | Ch. Pape Clement | Cabernet | R | | 3 | RP 91-93 |
| 2000 | Ch. Phelan Segur | Cabernet | R | | 3 | RP 86-88 |
| 2003 | Ch. Phelan Segur | Blend | | $54 | 6 | 16.5/20 |
| "The strongest effort from this estate since 1990, Phelan-Segur's 2003 exhibits a deep ruby/purple color in addition to a sweet, jammy bouquet of black fruits intermixed with licorice, earth, and spice. Medium-bodied, with low acidity and fine tannin, this is a sleeper of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2014." 87-89/100 pts. (Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - April 2004) |
| A solid red with silky tannins and a reserved fruit character. Medium- to full-bodied. Long finish. Refined. Phélan is always improving. 89-91 Points, Wine Spectator, 5 April, 2004 |
| 1990 | Ch. Pichon Baron | Cabernet | R | | 1 | WS 97 |
| 1995 | Ch. Pontet Canet | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 94 |
| 2003 | Ch. Pontet Canet | Blend | | $99 | 3 | 17.5/20, RP 95 |
| Perched on the hillside on the northern outskirts of the rather drab town of Pauillac, Pontet-Canet's wines have in the last decade began increasingly to tower over many of their neighbours'. A slight reduction in the proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend (from 75% to 65%) has transformed the wines from overly-tannic and austere to elegantly supple and immensely enjoyable. 2003 has been a triumph for Ch. Pontet-Canet. A restrained yet classy nose is followed by atypical seductive, abundant fruit with superbly polished tannins. Owner Alfred Tesseron thinks this is the best Pontet-Canet ever. Drink 2009-2020. |
| A very austere, animally nose but the palate is very well-balanced, layers of tobacco laced fruit with vibrant fresh acidity. Quite tannic and masculine with a sweet cassis finish. A wine performing way-above it station. Vin de garde. Excellent. (22/25) Tasted again after bottling at the UGC in Oct-05. That animally nose has been tamed through barrel maturation: now a decadent, rich aroma with tobacco and ripe blackcherry fruits. The palate has superb definition, with ripe blackberry, kirsch and a touch of truffle. Still opulent and extrovert with a long sweet vanillary finish that just lacks the explosion I was hoping for. Still a very fine wine though. (21/25) |
| 1990 | Ch. Sociando Mallet | Cabernet | R | | 2 | WS 96 |
| 1999 | Ch. Sociando Mallet | Cabernet | R | | 6 | WS 90 |
| 1998 | Ch. Trotanoy | Merlot | R | | 2 | WS 96 |
| 2003 | Ch. du Tertre | Blend | | $49 | 4 | 17/20, RP 93, WS 89 |
| Another contender for the least-known Classed Growth in the Médoc, if this rejuvenated estate carries on making wines like its outstanding 2003, that situation will certainly change. Since being purchased by Eric and Marie-Louise Albada Jelgersma in 1997, the finely proportioned château has been completely rebuilt, while the quality of the wine under the talented Alexander van Beek has been equally drastically transformed. A fabulous nose of intensely floral cassis and dried fruits bears none of the stewed fruit found in many other southern Médoc wines. On the palate generous helpings of blackberries and cream, combine with elegant Margaux femininity to stunning effect. Made from 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, this treasure of a wine surpasses the quality of their 2000 and offers excellent value too |
| Markedly attractive fruit. Extremely attractive. Atypical assemblage of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot. Complex and compelling. For relatively early consumption. |
| 2005 | Chateau Boyd Cantenac | Blend | | retail US $60 | 3 | RP 91 |
| RP: "This chateau, which is often under the radar (production is only 5,500-6,000 cases), has fashioned a terrific, inky/blue/purple-hued 2005 with a beautiful bouquet of spring flowers, creme de cassis, pain grille, and blueberries. Powerful and concentrated with full-bodied richness, stunning purity, and a tannic, 40+-second finish, this beauty requires patience. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2030+." |
| 2005 | Chateau Clos D'Oratoire | Merlot | | | 3 | |
| 2005 | Chateau Desmirail | Blend | | $30 | 3 | |
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| 2005 | Chateau Destieux | Blend | | $60 | 3 | RP 92 |
| After Destieux’s brilliant 2003, I thought proprietor Christian Dauriac may have hit the highest peak possible at this old vineyard (average age 45 years). However, the blockbuster 2005 may well eclipse the 2003. Consultant Michel Rolland’s final blend consists of 66% Merlot, and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. A flamboyant, muscular, seriously concentrated wine of great intensity, it possesses a dense black/purple color as well as a gorgeous nose of smoke, truffles, blackberries, earth, new saddle leather, and grilled meat juices. The wine is amazingly dense, rich, and powerful yet also elegant and fresh. The 14.5% alcohol is the highest this estate has achieved. Blame the 2005 drought for that characteristic. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2025+ |
| 2005 | Chateau Domaine de l'Eglise | Merlot | | retail US $60 | 3 | |
| 2005 | Chateau Duhart Milon | Blend | | retail US $75 | 3 | RP 92-94 |
| The 2005 Duhart-Milon is not far behind the 2003 (which I rated 94 points). A blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Merlot, it reflects the fact that the Rothschilds and their administrator, Charles Chevalier, have been making a major effort to increase quality at this property. Firm and structured, with a deep ruby/purple color and hints of graphite, black currants, licorice, smoke, and earth, it possesses a textured, rich, pure center, strong tannins, and real elegance as well as length. Four to six years of bottle age will be required, and it should last for 20-25 years. 90-92 points - Robert Parker |
| 2005 | Chateau Grand Ormeau | Merlot | | $50 | 3 | RP 90-93 |
| "(90-93) out of 100.....A superb Lalande-de-Pomerol, this sumptuous, full-throttle, opulent cuvee boasts a dense blue/purple color as well as a gorgeous bouquet of smoke, creme de cassis, black cherry jam, licorice, and a hint of truffles. It will provide a ripe, heady, rich, sumptuous glass of wine during its first 6-10 years of life." - WA |
| 2005 | Chateau Grand Pontet | Merlot | | retail US $60 | 3 | 91-94 |
| A fabulous effort, this deep, dense ruby, purple-tinged 2005 roars out of the glass like a runaway locomotive. Its technical numbers are nearly off the charts by bordeaux standards. Although it reveals incredibly high levels of tannin as well as 14% alcohol, it possesses the vintage’s characteristic freshness and liveliness. Loads of black fruits, spice box, cedar, and pain grille notes emerge from this structured blockbuster. It will benefit from 5-6 years of cellaring, and should last for 15-20 years. 91-94 points - Robert Parker |
| 2005 | Chateau L'Arrosee | Blend | | $72 | 3 | RP 92-94 |
| Always talked of as a good property, there were some excellent vintages here in the 1980s and before, but we haven’t been impressed by it since 1990. Recently sold and with substantial investment and a new label, word from St Emilion insiders is that this vineyard just below Ausone is making huge efforts to be noticed again. This beautiful, smooth wine has a lovely creamy texture that combines modern wine making and genuine St Emilion character. A fruit salad with spice from smoky new oak. Fresh raspberries and crème caramel, followed by a sweet red cherry finish. RECOMMENDED. |
| 2005 | Chateau L'Hermitage | Merlot | | retail US $63 | 3 | 90-92, RP 92 |
| Saturated, bright medium ruby. Aromas of blueberry, black truffle, bitter chocolate and menthol. Thick, sweet and powerful, but enlivened by a sappy quality and underlying minerality. A large-scaled, very ripe wine that finishes with big but essentially gentle and sweet tannins |
| L`Hermitage, one of the original garagiste estates, is a blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc from a small 9-acre site sandwiched between such titans of St.-Emilion as Beausejour-Duffau and Angelus. The 2005 is typically pure, medium to full-bodied, opulent, and showy, with more elegance (largely because of its fresh, lively acidity) and serious structure than usual. Its intense aromatics of blackberry, black cherry, and herbs is backed-up by a full-bodied wine possessing ripe tannin as well as outstanding weight, length, and overall harmony. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2022." |
| 2005 | Chateau La Fleur Cardinale | Merlot blend | | $57 | 3 | RP 92-94 |
| Fleur-Cardinale’s new owners, Dominique Decosters and his beautiful wife, Florence, of Havilland porcelain fame, assisted admirably by the top oenologist in Michel Rolland’s laboratory, Jean-Philippe Fort, have turned this 40 plus acre vineyard into one of St.-Emilion’s bright shining stars . There are just under 6,000 cases of this stunning blend of 80% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. Its dense purple hue is followed by glorious aromas of flowers, black cherries, cassis, new saddle leather, and subtle wood. The wine reveals fabulous purity, beautiful symmetry, an expansive mouthfeel, a multilayered texture, magnificent richness, high tannin, and refreshing acidity. The alcohol is an unusually high 14.5% (a characteristic of many 2005 Right Bank efforts). This superb classic is not to be missed. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2025. Robert Parker WA |
| 2005 | Chateau La Fleur de Bouard | Merlot | | retail US $50 | 3 | 90-92 |
| From the personal estate of one of Bordeaux’s most influential tastemakers, Hubert de Bouard, the 2005 La Fleur de Bouard is potentially one of the finest yet produced ... And that’s saying something given the consistent quality. A blend of 80% merlot, 15% cabernet franc, and 5% cabernet sauvignon, its blue, black, purple color is accompanied by beautiful aromas of charcoal, melted licorice, espresso, blackberries, and blue fruits. Deep, opulent, and full-bodied, with sweet tannin as well as a powerful finish, it will require consumption during its first 7-8 years of life. |
| 2005 | Chateau Les Gravieres | Merlot | | retail US $45 | 3 | RP 93 |
| Denis Barraud, an up-and-coming St.-Emilion star, fashions this garagiste offering from 100% Merlot. It possesses much more structure than expected given the mono-cepage utilized. Fresh, lively, black cherry, forest floor, spice box, and earth notes are present in this dense ruby/purple-colored effort. Full body, good richness, and moderately firm tannin will provide 15-20 years of longevity." ~(WA) |
| 2005 | Chateau Monbousquet | Merlot | | retail US $83 | 3 | 91-95 |
| "95 out of 100...From a less than noble terroir in Saint-Sulpice de Faleyrens, Gerard Perse has accomplished miraculous things at Monbousquet. Prior to his acquisition of this property in the mid-nineties, this wine tasted like watered-down Beaujolais, but Perse has turned it into one of the more stunning, modern-styled wines of Bordeaux. A blend of approximately two-thirds Merlot, one-third Cabernet Franc and 8-10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2005 exhibits plenty of toasty oak, roasted herb, meat juice, blackberry, cherry, and spice characteristics along with a touch of incense. Full-bodied and opulent, with an atypically rigid structure, this is a remarkable achievement for such a humble terroir. It admirably reflects Gerard Perse’s obsessive commitment to excellence. Look for this 2005 to hit its stride in 7-8 years, and last for 15-20." - WA |
| 2005 | Chateau Moulin Saint-Georges | Merlot | | retail US $64 | 3 | Parker : 91-93/100 |
| The best Moulin Saint-Georges Alain Vauthier, the Ausone master, has ever elaborated. Its colour is dark, its flavours of black currant are incredibly pure and the finale lasts “40 seconds”: a very fresh and mellow pleasure with the aromatic depth… |
| 2005 | Chateau Pipeau | Merlot blend | | $31 | 3 | RP 91-93 |
| Readers looking for a tasty, delicious St.-Emilion that can be enjoyed at a young age should check out this value pick. This dense purple-hued, intense fruit bomb exhibits flamboyant notes of smoke, black raspberries, cherries, and graphite. A big, deep, full-bodied wine with tremendous opulence as well as tannin and structure in the background, it should be drinkable in 2-3 years, and last for 15 or more. It is a sleeper of the vintage. |
| 2005 | Chateau Prieure Lichine | Blend | | retail US $ | 3 | 91 |
| Significant improvements are noticeable at this Margaux property now that StephaneDerenoncourt is the winemaking consultant. The 2005, perhaps the finest effort from this estate since the mid-sixties, boasts a deep ruby/purple color along with a sweet nose of cola, black cherries, cedar, and forest floor. Opulent with ripe tannin, a precocious mouthfeel (an anomaly for this vintage), and wonderful purity and lusciousness, it should be consumed during its first 15 years of life. -Robert Parker |
| 2003 | Chateau Rol Valentin | Merlot | | retail US $80 | 3 | RP 92-94 |
| 92-94) points. Former rugby player Eric Prissette continues to demonstrate a sure touch with his small plots planted in different sections of St.-Emilion. Yields in 2005 were a tiny 27 hectoliters per hectare, and the blend was 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Winemaking consultant Stephane Derenoncourt has fashioned an elegant, but powerful, dense blue/purple-colored 2005 revealing a sweet nose of blue and black fruits intermixed with notions of crushed rocks, subtle oak, creme de cassis, and blueberries. Full-bodied, with moderately high tannin, good acidity, and superb definition as well as length, it should be at its peak between 2011-2024. Score: 94. —Robert Parker, April 2006. |
| 2003 | Chateau Vielle Cure | Blend | | $42 | 3 | 90 |
| 2003 | Dom. de Chevalier | Merlot | | $62 | 3 | 17.5/20, WS RP 90 |
| This impressive estate hidden in the woods outside Léognan has traditionally been noted for its outstanding whites, but increasingly the reds are gaining equal billing. The man responsible for this increase in quality is highly rated winemaker Stéphane Derenoncourt who has previously made the wines at La Mondotte, Canon la Gaffelière and Pavie-Macquin. Their excellent 2003 rouge is as refined and aristocratic as ever on the nose. The palate boasts pure, classy oak notes, impeccably balanced, with the fruit displaying a degree of opulence never before seen here. An incredibly long finish merely serves to emphasise the breeding of this first-rate Claret. Drink 2012-2030. |
| The nose is muted: black dusty fruit, quite rustic. The palate is tannic with good acidity, very fruit-driven but with smooth texture. Not an over-powering wine - there is a modicum of restraint which is very attractive. This might blossom over the next couple of years: if it does not then it will be inferior to its contempories. (18/25) Tasted again at en primeur. The nose is closed, rustic and brambly. A litte muffled and lacking definition. The palate is concentrated, well-knit with ripe blackberry and tobacco. Earthy on the mid-palate which is aggressive. Some astringency on the finish. An average Domaine de Chevalier Rouge. (18/25) |
| 1986 | Leoville Las Cases | Blend | | | 1 | |
| 1995 | Pesquera | | R | | 1 | WS 92 |
| 2003 | Rubicon | Blend | RO top | $80 | 2 | 95 |
| 2000 | Shafer Merlot | Merlot | L | | 1 | |
| 2005 | 3 Rings Shiraz | Shiraz | left | $2X | 2 | WS 91 |
| 2005 was an excellent vintage in the Barossa Valley and the quality shows here in this wine's balance and complex flavors. A small percentage of Cabernet was used in the blend this year. Wood treatment was a combination of new and used American Oak for one year. |
| 1999 | Alkoomi Frankland River Blackbutt | Blend | RO 7 | | 2 | J. Hallyday 95 |
| 2001 | Antinori Marchese Antinori Riserva | Sangiovese | | $35 | 3 | 91 |
| 2003 | Bacio Divino The Tenth Kiss | Blend | | $75? | 2 | 93 |
| This innovative effort from Claus Janzen is made with the assistance of Nils Venge’s winemaker son, Kirk Venge. Concentrated, serious, and complex is the 2003 Proprietary Red, a combination of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Sangiovese, Petite Sirah, and Syrah. In contrast to the leaner, more austere and streamlined 2002, the 2003 is an exuberant, flamboyant, dense ruby/purple colored effort offering a rich, sumptuous nose of black raspberries, spice box, cedar, subtle Provencal herbs, and earth. Full-bodied, expansive, and beautifully textured, this is a savory, sumptuous wine to drink over the next 5-8 years. |
| 1999 | Banfi Poggio All' Oro Brunello di Montalcino | | | $140! | 4 | RP 96 WS 94 |
| “Banfi in Old Brookville brings you the sumptuous 1999 Castello Banfi Poggio all'Oro Brunello di Montalcino. This ruby-hued Riserva is a jewel, full of rich fruit and a hint of violet, with cherry, berry and plum flavors. The single-vineyard Brunello's source, ‘Poggio all'Oro,’ means ‘hill of gold.’ The 1999 vintage: 24-karat.” “This potent Brunello has the dark soil scent of a freshly dug truffle. Any more direct fruitiness is subdued beneath the generous richness of texture and the quiet intensity of the structure. Immediately delicious with a steak smothered in blue cheese, this also has more than enough staying power to reward a decade in the cellar.” 94 |
| Not giving away much right now, but it's concentrated and deep. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. A beauty. Give this time." |
| 2001 | Barossa Old Vine Company Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 10 | $95 | 2 | RP 96 |
| 2000 | Basarin Moccagatta Barbaresco | Nebbiolo | L | | 2 | 92 |
| 2001 | Brokenwood Wade Block 2 | Shiraz | RO 6 | | 2 | WS 90 Oliver 92 |
| 2002 | Brokenwood Wade Block 2 | Shiraz | RO 6 | $45 | 2 | RP 90 |
| 2003 | Brokenwood Wade Block 2 | Shiraz | | | 1 | |
| 2003 | Brunel Les Cailloux | | | | 3 | RP 92 |
| 2003 | Carmen Cab Reserve | Cabernet | llbo | | 1 | WS 84 |
| 2002 | Carmen Cab Reserve | Cabernet | llbo | | 2 | |
| 2003 | Carrick Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | RO 14 | $52 | 1 | 91 |
| Good full red. Perfumed aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, nutmeg, cinnamon and earth. Concentrated, broad and densely packed, with lovely pinot tang and underlying mineral complexity. Sweet, generous, serious pinot, with solid structure and firm, ripe tannins. This is the first vintage of this wine to feature a significant percentage of the estate's new Dijon clones." (Stephen Tanzer — International Wine Cellar — September/October 2005) |
| 2004 | Casa Lapotolle Cabernet Sauvignon | Cabernet | lcbo left | $20?? | 3 | |
| 1998 | Casanouva Delle Cerbaie Brunello | | | $69 | 3 | WS 94 |
| #27 0n '03 WS top 100 |
| 2003 | Ch La Vieille Cure Ch La Vieille Cure | Blend | | $45 | 3 | 92 |
| The best wine yet made at La Vieille Cure, which is becoming one of the finest estates in Fronsac. It's a must-buy for seekers of tremendous quality at a great price. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by sweet aromas of scorched earth, black raspberries, crème de cassis, and notions of cherries, smoke, and crushed rocks. This big, full-bodied, captivating wine is both structured and exceptionally long. Anticipated maturity: 2007 to 2018+. $23 |
| 2003 | Ch. Bellevue | Merlot | | $83 | 3 | RP 93-95 |
| RP "formidable intensity" |
| 2003 | Ch. Calon Segur | Blend | | $95 | 3 | RP 95-97 WS 96 |
| "outstanding - a top wine." WS "sleeper of the ..." |
| 2003 | Ch. Clos Fourtet | Merlot | | $95 | 3 | RP 94-96 |
| "powerful & rich" |
| 2003 | Ch. D'Aiguilhe | Merlot | | $45 | 3 | WS 91RP 90 |
| 2003 | Ch. Duhart Milon | Cabernet | | $59 | 3 | RP 91-93 WS 92 |
| 2003 | Ch. Lagrange | Blend | | $55 | 3 | RP 90-93 |
| A "must" buy of the vintage. |
| 2003 | Ch. Pipeau | Merlot | | $28 | 3 | WS 90 |
| "a tour-de-force" |
| 2001 | Ch. Rabaud-Promis Sauternes | White Wine | | $49 | 2 | WS 95 |
| 2003 | Ch. Smith Haut Lafitte | Merlot | | $80 | 3 | RP 90-93 WS 90-93 |
| WS "exotic & wild" |
| 2003 | Ch. Talbot | Blend | | $62 | 7 | RP 90 WS 94 |
| 2003 | Ch.Cap de Faugeres | Cabernet | | $24 | 6 | RP 88-90 |
| RP " sleeper of the vintage" |
| 2003 | Ch.Chasse Spleen | Blend | | $43 | 3 | tanzer 85-87 |
| "lightish elegant tannins" |
| 2003 | Ch.Margaux Pavillon Rouge | Blend | | $75 | 3 | WS & RP 92 |
| 2004 | Charles Cimicky Reserve Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 8 | $46 | 3 | 93-95 RP |
| The tightly-knit, awesomely endowed 2004 Shiraz Reserve is a potential blockbuster. Produced from a 40-year-old vineyard in the Lyndoch sector of Barossa, it spent 18 months in American hogsheads. Its inky/purple color reluctantly gives up aromas of roasted meats, smoked herbs, black cherries, and blackberries. This multidimensional wine boasts layers of fruit and glycerin as well as remarkable structure and equilibrium. A fabulous example of old vine Shiraz from Barossa, with more elegance and sophistication than many Eurocentric wine elitists would care to acknowledge, it should be consumed over the next 12-15 years. For some reason, this high quality winery never receives the press it merits. |
| 2001 | Chateau Bonalgue Pomerol | Merlot | | $50 US | 6 | 4* Decanter |
| 2004 | Clarence Hill Cabernet Sauvignon | Cabernet | | $19 | 1 | 4 1/2* of 5 |
| 2004 | Clarendon Hills Sandown | Cabernet | RO 8 | 68 | 1 | 92 |
| From a 75-year-old vineyard planted in sandy/gravelly soils, the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Sandown Vineyard possesses tart acidity, a backward, restrained style, exceptional elegance, and beautiful black currant fruit intermixed with floral/earthy overtones. It requires 2-3 years of bottle age, and should drink well through 2020. Score - 91-93 (Robert Parker Jr., |
| 2000 | Colli Eugenie Rosso Gemola | Cab-Merlot | L | | 3 | |
| 2001 | Coriole The Old Barn Cab-Shiraz | Cab-Shiraz | wood | | 2 | |
| 2004 | Coriole Lloyd Reserve | Shiraz | RO 4th | 52 | 3 | |
| 2005 | Craggy Range Sophia Gimlett Gravels | Blend | | $55 | 3 | |
| Michael Cooper gave this '...super-charged Gimblett Gravels, Hawke's Bay blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc' HHHHH (out of 5) for its '... superbly concentrated blackcurrant, plum, spice and nut flavours, underpinned by ripe, supple tannins.' |
| 2006 | Craggy Range Winery Te Muna Road Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | | $39 | 3 | WS 91 |
| This Pinot scored 91 points with Wine Spectator! 'Refined, with excellent intensity to spice, berry, black cherry and rose petal accents. Fresh herb undertones, minerals and nicely integrated oak underscore the intense finish. Drink now through 2011.' |
| 2004 | Creekside Meritage | Blend | | | 2 | |
| 2003 | Cyan 12 Meses | Tempranillo | | $17 | 1 | 90 |
| The 2003 Cyan (100% Tinta de Toro) comes from estate-owned vineyards ranging from 20-50 years of age. The wine was aged for 12 months in used French and American oak. Dark ruby in color, it offers an expressive nose of espresso roast, toast, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. Its full-bodied (14.5% alcohol) personality is formed by mouth-filling ripe fruit, just enough acidity to hold the wine together, and excellent depth and concentration. There is enough structure to ensure 6-8 years of longevity. Score - 90. |
| 2003 | Devil's Lair Devil's Lair Red Wine | Blend | RO 5th | $50 | 2 | |
| This cabernet-merlot helped launch the quality reputation of the Bordeaux-like, maritime Margaret River. Deep, supple, rich and finely honed with classic cassis, eucalyptus and chocolate-mint flavours. Fine tannin; drink now through 2013. Vintages. |
| 2003 | Dog Ridge Vineyard Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 13 | $3X | 3 | |
| A review from Huon Hooke in today's Sydney Morning Herald rates this wine as a top Aussie red: |
| Very floral, redcurrant coulis style. Some lovely, sof, spicy characters with white peppers. It’s an interesting wine. Nice style wine but does not go with the food. |
| 2003 | Dog Ridge Vinyard Cabernet DV3 | Cabernet | RO 13 | $40? | 5 | |
| 2001 | Dom. Courbis Cornas | | R | | 3 | |
| 2004 | Dom. Terlato & Chapoutier Lieu Dit Malakoff | Shiraz | | $48 | 3 | RP 90-92 |
| 2003 | Dom. Vincent Paris Cornas | | R | $45 | 1 | |
| 2004 | Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier lieu dit Malakoff | | | $48 | 3 | 90-92 RP |
| joint project between Chicago?s Terlato family and France?s Michel Chapoutier, this offering, produced from Pyrenees vineyards cropped at ten hectoliters per hectare, boasts sumptuously concentrated fruit (blackberries, cherries) in addition to melted licorice, espresso roast, and smoke characteristics. Ripe, opulent, and medium to full-bodied, if this delicious 2004 gets into the bottle without being fined or filtered (Chapoutier rarely fines or filters), it will be a lusty Australian blockbuster to enjoy during its first 7-10 years of life. |
| 2006 | Dourthe Freres Clos De Los Siete | Bordeaux | | $25 | 2 | 92 |
| The 2006 Clos de los Siete is a slightly different blend with 50% Malbec, 30% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Syrah. Opaque purple-colored, it has a similar expressive nose including fragrant plum, blueberry, and black cherry. Ripe, sweet, and seamless, it admirably hides its tannin under all the fruit. It will evolve for several years but who will have the willpower to defer gratification? It is an awesome value. Score - 92. (Jay Miller, www.erobertparker.com, Dec. 2007) |
| 2003 | Dow's Vintage Port | | | $79 | 3 | WS 92-94 |
| 2003 | E & E Black Pepper Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 8 | $100 | 2 | 94 |
| Bright, round and juicy. A gorgeous mouthful of cherry, blackberry and floral flavors, lingering on the finish with a touch of dark espresso to add interest. The tannins are polished, and the wine has a keen sense of balance, grace and harmony." -Rated 94, Wine Spectator |
| Made from 100% Shiraz, this wine, sourced from low-cropping, old vine Barossa vineyards, spent 18 months in oak: 50% American, 50% French, 30% of which was new. The superb quality and perfection of this Barossa icon is indicative of the intimate working relationship between winemaker and grower. Maximum flavor retention and complexity have been achieved through meticulous attention to detail with each individual vineyard parcel fermented separately. Deep, dark blood red in color with a purple hue, this wine shows a huge lift of cherry blossom, dark chocolate, spice, coffee, ripe blackberries, and tar, along with complimentary oak on the bouquet.The palate is very rich and ripe, full bodied, with a round mouthfeel and very long finish. Will reward careful cellaring, as it will improve for up to ten years after release. |
| 2004 | Edwards Cabernet Sauvignon | Cabernet | | $28 | 4 | JH 90 |
| 2001 | Elderton Command Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 4,5,6 | $79 | 3 | RP 95+ |
| 3000 cases |
| 2004 | Elderton Shiraz | Shiraz | wood | | 2 | WS 91 |
| 2004 | Elderton Asmead | Cabernet | RO 8 | $74 | 1 | 91 |
| There was no 2003 produced, but the backward, primary 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Ashmead is loaded with potential. Its inky/ruby/purple hue is followed by aromas of vanilla, barbecue smoke, roasted meats, creme de cassis, and new leather. This dense, rich, powerful effort requires 3-4 years of bottle age, and should last for 15-20 years. Drink 2009-2026. Score - 91. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006) |
| 2001 | Elderton CSM *** | Blend | RO 3 | $40 | 1 | RP 92 |
| 2002 | Elderton Command Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 4 | $72 | 1 | 94-96 RP |
| 2003 | Elderton Friends | Shiraz | | $20 | 3 | RP 91 |
| 2005 | Elderton Friends | Shiraz | | $19 | 2 | 91 |
| The “Friends” range of wines sit alongside the Estate range with the main point of difference being that the majority of the fruit is sourced from friends’ vineyards located in the Eden Valley. It’s obviously pretty handy to have friends in high places. |
| 2004 | Elderton xxx | Shiraz | | $29 | 2 | 5* 97 |
| With 22 vintages released, Elderton’s current generation, Allister and Cameron Ashmead, have much to ponder when they look to refine and improve established wine styles. This 2004 is the best release of the well-priced Elderton estate shiraz I can remember. A good example of a carefully- updated traditional style. The oak is toned back. The wine has immediate appeal and remains true to form: distinctly Barossan, yet still in the Elderton family style. The 2004’s clarity makes a more confident statement of the fruit that demonstrates the depth of flavour possible for what is an undervalued wine. There are textbook red and black berry fruits, some gentle tar, vanilla, dark chocolate and spice. The oak has been spun back into the wine and, while still assertive, it works in with the rest of the picture. The palate has richness and a softer, more smoothly-textured, tannin profile. |
| 2004 | Eldredge Blue Chip Shiraz | Shiraz | | | 1 | |
| Eldredge 2004 Blue Chip Shiraz sells for $25. A well-constructed wine with unobtrusive, fine, tight tannins, fresh acid and pure fruit that delivers a very interesting flavour profile that is off-sweet with some sweetness below. The persistence is reasonable but there is not enough length on the palate; once it has had time to flesh out, it should be a blinder. And ample-weight wine with a sophisticated level of complexity, it's rated as Recommended with *** for value and as it matures, will probably be Highly Recommended with **** for value. |
| 2004 | Evans & Tate X & Y Shiraz | Shiraz | | $18 | 2 | 4/5 stars |
| 2003 | F.Olazabal Quinto Do Vale Meao | | | $59 | 3 | WS 95 |
| 2003 | Ferrari-Carano sonoma Merlot | Merlot | | $40 | 2 | |
| 2004 | Finca Flichman Expresiones Reserve | Shiraz-Cabernet- Cabernet | | $16 | 2 | 90 |
| There's a busload of flavour packed into this chewy, muscular red, brimming with flavours of juicy plum, dark-skinned berries, licorice and smoky pipe tobacco. |
| 2004 | Framingham Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | | 29 | 2 | |
| 2002 | Frederic Magnien Gevrey-Chambertin Clos De La Justice | Pinot Noir | | | 2 | |
| 2004 | Glen Eldon Dry Bore | Shiraz | | $28 | 3 | 92 |
| The finest red in this portfolio is the 2004 Shiraz Dry Bore, which was aged 24 months in a combination of new and old French and American 300 liter hogsheads. This full-bodied Shiraz exhibits a beautiful texture as well as loads of blackberry and cassis fruit with hints of pepper and chocolate. Dense and chewy, it is best consumed over the next 5-6 years. Score - 92. (Robert Parker Jr., |
| 2003 | Gould Campbell Port | | | $64 | 2 | WS 92-94 |
| 2003 | Goundrey Reserve Cabernet | Cabernet | RO 12 | $23 | 1 | 93 |
| 93/100 - Polished, sophisticated. Juicy mineral, currant and cedar-scented on the nose; more currants plus fine, dry long tannins building across the palate. Core of essence-y fruit and plenty of tang. Love the chewy dry finish. |
| 1999 | Grampians Langi Cab-Merlot | Blend | RO 9 | | 3 | |
| 2004 | Grant Burge Shiraz | Shiraz | | $17 | 3 | WS 87 |
| 2005 | Gravitas Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | | $32 | 3 | |
| Smoky, cherry-like notes in the bouquet set the scene. A dash of leaf at the back doesn't detract from the good impression. It's smartly balanced on the palate, with delightfully restrained tannins and good fruit. |
| 2002 | Guyon Gevrey-Chambertin | Pinot Noir | | | 1 | WS 90 Toronto 92 |
| 2000 | Hamilton Hut Block Cab | Cabernet | wood | | 1 | Wine Pros 88 |
| | Henry's Drive Vignerons | | | $ 17.40 | 2 | 91 |
| There are 70,000 cases of the 2005 Red, a blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot from young vines. However, this is no wimpy wine at 15% alcohol. An unbelievable value, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as an uplifted, projected nose of sweet red and black fruits, earth, and spice box. Supple-textured with a voluptuous mouthfeel and unbelievable richness, this wine clearly over-delivers. Enjoy it over the next 2-3 years. Score - 91. (Robert Parker Jr., |
| 2000 | Henschke Keyneton Shiraz-Cab | Shiraz blend | wood | | 2 | 18/20 |
| 2001 | Henschke Keyneton Euphonium | Shiraz-Cab-Merlot | RO 11 | | 2 | 88 |
| 2002 | Henschke Keyneton Euphonium | Shiraz | RO 8 | $50 | 6 | RP 93 |
| 2000 | Herzog Spirit of Marlborough | Merlot-Cab | RO TOP | | 1 | 92 |
| 2003 | Hill & Dale Cabernet Sauvignon | Cabernet | | $13 | 8 | |
| 2003 | Ironstone Merlot Sierra Foothills | Merlot | | $17 | 1 | |
| 2004 | Jacob's Creek St Hugo Cabernet | Cabernet | | $40 | 2 | |
| ... lots of bramble, graphite, blackcurrant and herbs, lots of freshness and life, a dusting of milk chocolate and a fine flush of filligreed tannin. Reserve, character, and structure. A lift of gumleaf. A classical Coonawarra cabernet. Drink: 2010-2016. Score - 93. |
| 2004 | Jim Barry The Cover Drive | Cabernet | | $25 | 2 | WS 90 |
| spicy, lively berry and currant flavors make this an appealing red, and the flavors persist impressively on a refined frame, picking up a minty edge as they linger. Drink now through 2010. Score ? 90. (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, Dec. 15, 2003) Score - 90 (Harvey Steiman, www.winespectator.com, Dec. 15, 2003) |
| 2000 | Jim Barry The McRae Wood | Shiraz | RO 5 | 35 US | 1 | 93 |
| 2002 | Jim Barry The McRae Wood | Shiraz | RO 11 | $43 | 5 | RP 91 |
| | Johner Gladstone Noble Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | | | 1 | |
| 2002 | Kacaba Cabernet Reserve | Cabernet | | $55 | 2 | 91 |
| 2002 | Kacaba Meritage | Blend | ro top | $35 | 1 | 91 |
| 2005 | Kalleske Greenock | Shiraz | RO 9 | $55 | 2 | 95 |
| The impressive 2005 Shiraz Greenock exhibits an inky/purple color, greater intensity, and additional roasted meat and gamy characteristics interwoven with pepper, creme de cassis, and blackberry liqueur. The oak treatment is identical to the 2004, but that component seems more subdued in the 2005. The 2005 should evolve and drink well for 10-15 years. Score - (94-96). (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com, Oct. 2006 |
| 2001 | Katnook Merlot | Merlot | RO 10 | $30 | 2 | 94 |
| 1999 | Katnook Odyssey | Cabernet | RO 12 | | 1 | WS 88 |
| eejeet!!! Thought, for the second time, that I was grabbing a Tait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| 2003 | Katnook Estate Cabernet Sauvignon | Cabernet | RO 10 | $30 | 4 | |
| Colour: Intense plum in colour with purple tinges. Nose: A complex array of ripe fruit and oak maturation aromas. Dark berry, dustymulberry, black olive and spicy plum fruit characters with chocolate andelegant cedar oak maturation tones. Palate: Generous... |
| 2003 | Katnook Estate Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 5th | $30 | 2 | |
| 2005 | Kilikanoon Killerman's Run | Shiraz | | $20 | 3 | 89 |
| Palate: balanced and lengthened by the older oak flavours. A sweet mid palate, soft tannins and warmth of character have created a wine with both power and finesse. Cellaring potential of at least 6 – 8 years |
| 2002 | Killibinbin Langhorne Creek Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 5 | | 2 | WS 90 |
| 11/06 no rush. Lots of fruit. Smokey. Vanilla.Oak next in '08 |
| 2003 | Le Clos Jordanne Premiere Cuvee | Pinot Noir | RO TOP | ??? | 2 | |
| 2001 | Leasingham Classic Claire Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 5 | 45 US | 1 | 93 |
| 2004 | MacRostie Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | RO TOP | $33 | 1 | 88, 91 |
| If initially showing bursts of toast and slightly gamy spice in the nose, this well-balanced young Pinot quickly fixes comfortably on ripe cherries as its salient trait. It is bright and alive, and it is firmed by light but evident tannins, but its fine fruity energy is insurance enough that it will gracefully age and benefit from a few years in bottle. Score - 88. |
| 2001 | Maremma Toscano Tenuta Belgardo | blend | L | | 2 | 90-91 |
| Powerful cabernet, quite Napa style. Decanted an hour, can still age for a while. (152 views) |
| 2003 | Maxwell Lime Cave | Cabernet | | $29 | 2 | 91 |
| Robert Parker Jr. awarded this Cab 91 points, describing it as 'concentrated and full-bodied, with sweet tannin as well as loads of extract and richness, give it another 1-2 years of bottle age, and consume it over the following 12+.' |
| 2004 | Mendoza Clos De Los Siete | | | $25 | 3 | 91 |
| 2005 | Mendoza Clos De Los Siete | | | $25 | 2 | |
| 2004 | Mitchell Peppertree | Shiraz | | $ 22.80 | 1 | 92 |
| Light to mediumbodied; soft, cushiony texture to the plum, blackberry and earth fruit; fine, tannins, good oak handling. Drink: [until] 2015. Score - 92. (James Halliday, |
| 2004 | Mitchell Peppertree | Shiraz | | $22.80 | 4 | |
| Tasting Note |
| 2005 | Mitolo G.A.M. | Shiraz | RO 7 | $49 | 4 | RP 95 |
| 2004 | Mitolo Jester | Shiraz | RO 9 | $26 | 2 | 90 RP |
| 2005 | Mitolo Reiver Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 10 | $49 | 1 | RP 94 |
| 2004 | Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon | Cabernet | RO top | $35 | 2 | W&S 91 |
| 2002 | Oliver's Tarango Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 10 | 39 US | 3 | RP 93 |
| 2003 | Penmara Reserve Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 9 | $19 | 2 | |
| 2000 | Peter Lehmann Eight Songs Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 12 | $39 | 1 | WS 92 |
| 2001 | Peter Lehmann Mentor | Blend | RO 11 | $41 | 2 | JH 93 |
| 2005 | Pillar Pillar Red Box | Shiraz, Cab, Merlot | | $17.40 | 2 | RP 91 |
| There are 70,000 cases of the 2005 Red, a blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot from young vines. However, this is no wimpy wine at 15% alcohol. An unbelievable value, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as an uplifted, projected nose of sweet red and black fruits, earth, and spice box. Supple-textured with a voluptuous mouthfeel and unbelievable richness, this wine clearly over-delivers. Enjoy it over the next 2-3 years. Score - 91. |
| 2003 | Pirramimma Cabernet Sauvignon | Cabernet | | $23 | 2 | |
| 2001 | Planeta Syrah | Syrah | L | | 1 | WS 93 |
| 2004 | Poesia Poesia | Malbec | | $75 | 2 | RP 92-94 |
| 2001 | Prado Rey | Tinto Fino | | $21 | 3 | Decanter 5* Nats 90 |
| Ribera del Duero Crianza, Prado Rey, Real Stitio de Ventosilla (2001) |
| 2004 | Pretty Sally Estate Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 6 | $30? | 2 | 91 |
| International Wine Cellar / Stephen Tanzer (July/August 2005) |
| 1985 | Quarles Harris Vintage Port | | | $69 | 1 | WS 85 |
| Very good colour. Good nose, quite sweet with a lovely underlying flavour chocolate and roasted almonds |
| 2004 | Quartz Reef Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | left | $40 | 5 | 90-95 |
| "Strawberried, cherried, pure. Beautifully composed. Integrated acid and pure fruit, a touch on the simple side, but so well put together it seems sure that it will build complexity with time. Quartz Reef showed well today. This is high class. Drink: 2008-2014 / 92 points" |
| 2003 | Richard Hamilton Burton's Vineyard, Old Bush Vine | Grenache Shiraz | RO 4th | $40 | 2 | |
| 2005 | Richard Hamilton Lot 148 | Merlot | | $28? | 2 | 92 |
| A floral and fragrant merlot whose earthy, leathery and violet-like |
| 2003 | Rockford Basket Pressed Shiraz | Shiraz | | | 1 | |
| 2004 | Rodney Strong Merlot | Merlot | | $25 | 2 | |
| This ever-popular Merlot has a lot going for it. Aged in French and American oak barrels for 25 months, the 2004 features soft, fruity aromas of black plums and blueberries with hints of red licorice and vanilla. It's dry, medium full-bodied with deep dark-fruit flavours and a lingering spicy/toasty finish. Vintage after vintage it is consistently delightful. |
| 2003 | Rodney Strong Sonoma Cabernet | Cabernet | RO TOP | $20 | 1 | 90 |
| Our Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignons dark ruby color tips off a deep and luscious quality throughout. The nose captures your attention with an essence of a dark Lincoln rose, white chocolate and a hint of cumin. Medium-bodied, long, and lingering in the mouth, the wine is packed with flavors of dark chocolate, currant and licorice. |
| 2005 | Rolf Binder Hales Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 4th | $20 | 2 | 91 |
| The 2005 Shiraz Hales (includes 6% Mourvedre and 4% Grenache) reveals a deep ruby/purple color as well as uplifted aromatics of toasty oak, blackberries, blueberries, and acacia flowers. This dense, medium to full-bodied, beautifully put together Aussie red should drink well for 5-7 years. Score - 91. (Robert Parker Jr., www.erobertparker.com |
| 2005 | Rolf Binder Halliwell | Shiraz Grenache | | $26 | 4 | RP 92 |
| A sexy, knock-out effort for drinking over the next 5-7 years is the 2005 Shiraz/Grenache Halliwell. This aromatic blend of 60% Shiraz and 40% Grenache offers up notes of blueberries, raspberries, cherries, earth, spice, and a hint of oak. It is fullbodied with juicy, concentrated flavors, supple tannins, and a velvety, opulent finish." |
| 2004 | Rolf Binder Heysen | Shiraz | RO 4th | $49 | 3 | 93 RP |
| The backward 2004 Shiraz Heysen, aged 20 months in a combination of American and French oak, possesses a dense purple color as well as rich notes of blackberries, licorice, creosote, and camphor. This dense, full-bodied, ripe, powerful Shiraz includes 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, which is impossible to detect. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 12-15+. Drink 2008-2023. |
| 2004 | Rolf Binder Heysen Shiraz | Shiraz | | $49 | 2 | RP 93 |
| 2003 | Rosemount Estate Mudgee Hill of Gold | Shiraz | | 23 | 1 | |
| Rosemount Estate Hill of Gold Shiraz (Mudgee) 2003 |
| 2004 | Rosemount Estate Mudgee Hill of Gold | Cabernet | | 21 | 3 | |
| 2004 | Rubicon Estate Cask | Cabernet | RO top | $60 | 2 | 90++ |
| 2004 | Sandalford Cabernet | Cabernet | RO TOP | $25 | 2 | |
| This 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon wine displays the classic fresh dark berry characters and wet forest floor nuances so typical of great Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate is full-bodied with the fruit flavours blending seamlessly in with the cedary, cigar box French oak notes. This is a wine that whilst drinking well in current form, cellaring for up to 15 years will reward those further for their patience. Sealed with a screwcap for utmost consumer confidence and as the best way to preserve and ensure the true varietal character of this wine. |
| This is a Margaret River classic, with wonderful fragrance and a leaner more streamlined feel than you find in the cabs of South Australia. Great nose of cassis, eucalyptus and chocolate mint and flinty minerality. It’s medium-full bodied, dense and taut but not the least austere. Cassis fruit purity never gets sidetracked, nor does it fade for a long time on the finish. Excellent length. Best now to 2012 (maybe longer)” |
| 2002 | Scholz Vintners The Willows Shiraz | Shiraz | | $35 | 6 | RP 93 |
| 2003 | Shafer Napa Cabernet | Cabernet | RO TOP | $74 | 2 | WS 91 RP 90 |
| 2003 | Shingleback Shiraz | Shiraz | RO | | 2 | |
| 2006 | Sileni Hawke's Bay Pinot Noir Celler Selection | Pinot Noir | | $17 | 2 | |
| If the New Zealanders keep making wine like this, the French are going to end up with a case of Pinots envy. Approachable in a New World style, this red's got lots to offer. Round, soft and sultry, it's a keeper at under $20. |
| 2003 | Skillogalee Basket Pressed Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 8 | | 2 | JH 92 |
| The fruit for this Skillogalee Shiraz was handpicked from low yielding, un-irrigated vines growing on the slopes around the homestead, around 450m above sea level. The fruit was destalked and partially crushed, fermented in open tanks with submersion boards to ensure the emersion of the skins for maximum colour and flavour extraction, and then gently basket-pressed. Malo-lactic fermentation took place partially in tank with completion in barrel. Maturation for 20 months in a combination of French and American oak hogsheads has added considerable balance and complexity. |
| 2003 | Smith-Woodhouse Vintage Port | | | $68 | 2 | WS 92-94 |
| 2002 | Spadina Una Rosa | Nero D' Avola | | $20 | 1 | WS 90 |
| Dark, full-bodied and chewy, with meaty blackberry and mineral character. Medium- to full-bodied, with good, solid tannins and a long finish. Well done. Best after 2005. 1,500 cases made. |
| 2005 | St Hallet Shiraz Grenache | Shiraz Grenache | | | 3 | |
| 2004 | St Hallett Blackwell | Shiraz | RO top | | 2 | |
| 2004 | Stella Bella Cabernet Sauvignon | Blend | | $25 | 2 | 95 |
| Australian critic James Halliday awarded this wine 95 points in his annual guide, Australian Wine Companion 2008, calling it ??immaculately crafted throughout, a perfect balance between red (cassis) and black (Blackcurrant, spice) fruit components, oak and tannins.? |
| 2005 | Step Rd Langhorne Shiraz | Shiraz | | $20 | 2 | 92 |
| From a fabulous vintage in South Australia, Step Rd's 2005 Shiraz Langhorne Creek reveals a full-bodied opulence, wonderfully pure, rich, black fruit flavors, and amazing density, purity, and texture. It should be consumed over the next 4-5 years. Drink 2006-2011. Score - 92. (Robert Parker Jr., |
| 2003 | Stickleback Shiraz** | Shiraz | | | 3 | WS 87 W&S 90 |
| 2005 | Stoney Ridge Founder's Signature Collection | Pinot Noir | | | 1 | |
| 2001 | Tait Basket Pressed Shiraz | Shiraz | L | 35 US | 2 | RP 93 |
| 25/12 Took a couple of hours to open. Has lotsa time left. No rush. |
| 2001 | Tait Basket Pressed Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 9 | | 1 | |
| 2001 | Terrabianca Campaccio | | | $38 | 1 | WS 91 |
| 2005 | The Colonial Estate Envoy | GSM | | $32 | 2 | RP 91 |
| 60/30/10 blend) Dark purple. Fresh dark berry aromas deepen with air, developing a ripe, smoky bouquet. Dense and ripe on the palate, showing brooding bitter cherry and blackcurrant flavors and chunky tannins. Gains an exotic floral pastille quality on the long, spicy finish. This needs a serious steak. Score - 90. (Josh Raynolds, International Wine Cellar, Sept./Oct. 2007) |
| A fabulous hedonistic blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Shiraz and 20% Mourvedre. Recently awarded 93 points by Robert Parker. It's certainly a voluptuous, hedonistic wine. Fabulous sweet berry fruits, blackberry, blueberry, raspberry and plum, oak and spice too. Already really drinkable. Has a meaty, velvety palate with lots of sweet fruit, pepper and asian spices. Oak is toasty but pretty much in the background. It's voluptuous and almost sweet, tannins are soft and ripe and this is a delicious full flavoured yet really juicy wine. Great length too. Drinking now, it has the weight to develop over the next 5 years. Top drop !! |
| 2005 | The Colonial Estate Etranger | Cabernet | RO 10 | $31.55 | 4 | RP 94 |
| Inky violet. Minty cassis and blackberry on the nose, with an array of floral, herbal and mineral qualities adding interest. Deep and sweet but structured, with powerful dark berry and bitter cherry flavors, firm tannic grip and superb finishing thrust. Gains in sweetness with air but remains balanced, offering a beautifully judged interplay of fruit and tannin. Score - 93. |
| Not surprisingly, the blockbuster 2005 L’Etranger Cabernet Sauvignon boasts lovely purity, superb ripeness, and stunningly rich black currant, licorice, cedar, espresso roast, and spice characteristics. With great length, medium to full body, fabulous purity, and a long, sweet, tannic finish, it should evolve beautifully for 10-12 years and last for two decades. |
| 2005 | Thorn Clark Shotfire Shiraz | Shiraz | | $25 | 2 | RP 92 |
| 2003 | Torbreck The Steading | Grenache, Mataro & Shiraz | RO top | US $37 | 4 | |
| If any one wine produced by Torbreck most exemplifies what they are about, then it is this. The Steading is Torbreck's ode to the great old vines, planted at the turn of last century, which survived the government-endorsed vine-pull scheme of the 1980's. Thankfully there are still many great vineyards remaining that are planted to Grenache, Mataro and Shiraz- the traditional Barossa varieties. 45 different parcels of fruit compose The Steading which are all fermented and matured separately, being brought together only at blending where their individuality is assessed prior to the composition of the final blend. |
| 2002 | Turkey Flat Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 10 | | 3 | WS 92 |
| 2004 | Two Hands Samantha's Garden Shiraz | Shiraz | RO 12 | $50 | 3 | RP 93 |
| 2004 | Vasse Felix Haylesbury | Cabernet | | $58 | 2 | 92 |
| Jay Miller of www.erobertparker.com awarded this iconic Margaret River Cab 92 points for its '... bouquet of cedar, wood smoke, scorched earth, black cherry, and blackberry ... this densely packed wine needs 6-8 years in bottle to reveal its full potential. |
| 2004 | Villa Maria Marlborough Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | RO 14 | 39 | 1 | |
| 2001 | Voyager Estate | Blend | | $32 | 5 | Jeremy Oliver 97 |
| 2005 | Voyager Estate Shiraz | Shiraz | | $27 | 1 | 91-92 |
| Leading Aussie wine critic, Jeremy Oliver, gave this Shiraz a 95! (www.jeremyoliver.com.au, 2007) This classy, polished red offers soft dark fruit on the palate with delicate wisps of anise, spice and oak.You've tasted Barossa Valley Shiraz, now try the very best from Margaret River! |
| While I didn't coin the phrase, it was exactly wines like this that had me describing some reds as 'pretty wines'. Now rather than spending three paragraphs quantifying that descriptor let me summarise by saying it is all extremely positive and lo and behold it is another winner from rock star winemaker Cliff Royle. So why the pretty? Simply it is very little work. It is young, fresh, vibrant. It gives off some lovely lifted florals no doubt courtesy of a sprinkling of Viognier. It tastes good. It is a wine to have in the arm chair rather than the dining table. I don’t wish to make light of the ‘seriousness’ of this wine but it is very gluggable. From my perspective it is the type of wine that you drink first and ask questions later – it is only when subsequent glasses are had one appreciates the layers of complexity and the previously mentioned seriousness comes to the fore. This wine encapsulates the excitement this variety is generating around the whole of Margaret River. Where some are in the experimentation stage, this nails it. Drink: Now - 2012. Quality: Excellent – BW; WineStar© March 2007 |
| 1999 | Warrenmang Grand Pyrenees | Blend | wood | 45 US | 3 | |
| | Water Wheel Memsie | Shiraz | | | | |
| 87% shiraz, 7% cabernet sauvignon and 6% malbec) Saturated purple. Inky blackberry, blueberry and candied plum on the nose, with a bright peppery quality. Chewy dark fruit flavors are firmed by dusty tannins that carry through the finish. Solidly built-in fact, almost brawny and strikingly concentrated for this price point. Score - 90. (Josh Raynolds, |
| 2004 | Wild Earth Central Otago Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | RO 14 | $40 | 2 | Nats 91 |
| 2004 | Willow Heights Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | | $25 | 3 | |
| 2003 | Willow Heights Cabernet Merlot | Cab-Merlot | | $15 | 3 | |
| 2004 | Willow Heights Merlot | Merlot | | $20 | 3 | |
| 2004 | Wither Hills Marlborough Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | | $49 | 2 | 90+ |
| 2004 | Wolf Blass Bilyara Reserve | Cabernet | | $16 | 2 | |
| 2002 | Wolf Blass Black Label | Shiraz Cab Malbec | RO top | $89 | 3 | 97 |
| modern classic. Its opulent, heady perfume of wild, briary dark berries, plums and redcurrants reveals layers of deeply scented oak, pepper and spice. Smooth and luscious, its silky-fine palate is steeped in pure, joyous dark fruit handsomely partnered by creamy and slightly caramelised cedar/vanilla oak. It's effortless and refined, beautifully balanced with firm, fine tannins, finishing with length and persistence. Score - 97. (Jeremy Oliver, www.jeremyoliver.com.au, July 2006 |
| 2003 | Wolf Blass Gold Label | Shiraz | | $30 | 2 | 41/2 of 5 |
| 2001 | Wolf Blass Presidents Selection | Shiraz | wood | | 1 | WS 87 |
| 2004 | Yalumba Shiraz Viognier | Shiraz & Viognier | | $20 | 2 | 89-91 |
| "The outstanding 2004 Shiraz/Viognier (95% and 5% respectively) offers an exotic, flamboyant nose of blackberries and flowers along with wonderful intensity, richness, fruit, and glycerin. Enjoy it over the next 3-4 years." - The Wine Advocate" |
| 2001 | Yalumba Signature Series | Blend | RO 5 | $45 | 4 | 95 |
| 2005 | Yalumba TGV | Tempranillo | RO top | $39 | 2 | 92 |
| 2005 | Yering Station Pinot Noir | Pinot Noir | | $23 | 2 | 18/20 |
| Jancis says "bone dry, delicate and quite remarkably Burgundian" |
| 2004 | Zenato Amarone | Corvina | | $50 | 1 | |
| Medium deep ruby/purple colour leads to very attractive aromas of sweet black cherry, chocolate raisins and vanilla. Dry with plentiful aroma replays, this ripe and round wine is perfectly balanced by velvety tannins and bright acidity. Enjoy it tonight with braised beef dishes or age it 4+ years. (David Churchill, VINTAGES panel, Sept. 2007 |
| 2001 | Zenato Ripassa | Corvina | llbo | | 4 | WS 90 |
| 2003 | Zenato Ripassa | Corvina | llbo | | 4 | WS 87 |
| 2001 | Zerbina Marzieno | Sangiovese | | $75 | 5 | "A" |
| A vibrant brilliant ruby, barely translucent. The aromas are complex and dramatic with dark fruit and floral perfume leaping out of the glass. This is an almost perfect wine with a seamless blend of power and complexity. Pungent tobacco notes highlight the concentrated cassis with bitter cherry fruit flavors. The oak components harmonize with the deep fruit flavors and round tannins. This wine is so lush now it may be tempting to drink, but five or more years will bring out a whole new layer of complexity. (A) |
| Tasting note: Congratulations to Maria Cristina Geminiani for her Marzieno 2001, a wine that is unfailingly superb. The mainly sangiovese fruit, with a little cabernet sauvignon and merlot, comes from very high-density, bush-trained vines and is matured in new barriques for over a year. Concentrated ripe fruit laced with subtle liquorice lingers on the nose. In the mouth, it is opulent and powerful, with assertive tannins, never putting a foot wrong as it flows seamlessly across the palate. Cleanness, balance, texture and length abound in a perfect performance from this utterly convincing Three Glass winner. Score - Three Glasses (out of 3). (Gambero Rosso, Italian Wines Guide, 2005) |
| 2003 | Zerbina Pietramora | Sangiovese | | $70 | 6 | |
| 2003 | d'Arenberg Galvo Garage | Blend | | $54 | 2 | RP 90 |
| 2004 | d'Arenberg The Coppermine Road | Cabernet | | US $53 | 2 | RP 92 |
| 2002 | d'Arenberg The Dead Arm | Shiraz | wood | | 5 | WS 92 |
| 2003 | d'Arenberg The Dead Arm | Shiraz | wood | | 4 | WS 86 |
| Wait a while |
| 2005 | d'Arenberg The Dead Arm | Shiraz | | $55 | 4 | RP 95 |
| Inky violet. Vibrant, perfumed nose melds blackberry, cassis, kirsch, licorice and dried flowers. On the palate, this shiraz shows an intriguing mix of sweet dark fruit flavors and firmer earth and mineral notes, with big but supple tannins contributing structure. The palate-staining finish features notes of bitter cherry, cured tobacco and high-octane chocolate. Nothing obvious here. Score - 93. |
| 2004 | d'Arenberg The Derelict Vineyard | Grenache | | $29 | 2 | |
| Whenever I see this wine I always think of the “Derelicte” fashion range designed by the evil Mugatu in the film Zoolander. No surprise then that I was walking about yesterday saying “Derelicte!” and “You can Derelicte my…” |
| 2006 | d'Arenberg The Laughing Magpie | Shiraz Viognier | | $28 | 4 | 90, 92 RP |
| Ruby-red. Seductive red and dark berries on the nose, with deeper soy and dark chocolate notes. Fresh and juicy, with energetic blueberry and cassis flavors, a hint of violet pastille and dusty tannins. Firms up on the finish, taking on notes of licorice and plum preserve. Impressively persistent, sappy and really delicious now. Score |
| 2004 | d'Arenburg The Dead Arm | Shiraz | | $55 | 2 | WA 95 JH 96 |
| An inky/purple color is accompanied by a glorious perfume of creosote/melted road tar, blackberry and cassis liqueur, pepper, and spice. This deep, rich, fullbodied, |