"WLTV Wine Listing by Episode" - Created and Maintained by "Vayniac" Chris Stanisci (SS Chris)
| ABBREVIATION KEY: WL-Wine Library, GV-Gary Vaynerchuk, ID-Ian Dorin ----- AG-Antonio Galloni (WA-Italy), AM-Alan Meadows (The Burghound), AP-Andres Proensa, CG-Connoisseurs Guide, DR-Daniel Rogov (Israel), DS-David Schildknecht (WA-Germany), DT-Daniel Thomases, GR-Gambero Rossi (Italy), IWC-International Wine Cellar, JG-John Gillman, JM-Jay Miller (WA-Spain), JR-Josh Raynolds (IWC), MS-Mark Squires (WA-Portugal), NM-Neal Martin (WA-unknown), QPR-Quality/Price Ratio, PR-Peter Moser (IWC-Austria), PR-Pierre Rovani, RP-Robert Parker , ST-Stephen Tanzer (IWC), WA-Wine Advocate, WB-Wine Buyer, WE-Wine Enthusiast, WS-Wine Spectator, W&S-Wine & Spirits --- GARY, CONGRATS on Conan, Ellen, Nightline, Time Magazine, Slate & the Book!! Also, a huge SHOUT-OUT to fellow Vayniac "LPskeleton" (aka Caleb Smith) who won the U.S. Skeleton National Championship!!! (btw, beating the World's #1 ranked rider). And last, but certainly not least, a HUUUUGE and sincere THANK-YOU to both Gary & Mr. Mott for 465 Episodes & 1347 Wines!! |
Episode / Date 
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Episode Title | Vintage
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Highest Rated / Recommend Wine
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Wine Type
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WL Price
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WL Code |
GV Rating
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Highlights of "The Chuks" Comments & Tasting Notes |
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| # 465 Wed, May 14th, 2008 |
Chilean Carmenere Makes An Appearance - Episode #465 | N/V | CONCHA Y TORO CARMENERE | Chile Carmenere | $4.39 | 22962 | 75 | #3; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-this is the most vegetal wine I think I've ever smelled; (Mott says, "like rotten vegetables"); straight soil (Mott says, "Mulch"); shocking; this smells like Mulch; TASTE-the greenness carries over on the palate; interesting iceberg lettuce coming through hardcore; little apricot thing on the aftertaste; this is just too green for the majority of people; kind of thin and awkward; it's not awful, I could drink this w/ it's greenness, but many wouldn't like; GV-75 |
| # 465 Wed, May 14th, 2008 |
Chilean Carmenere Makes An Appearance - Episode #465 | 2005 | CHONO CARMENERE | Chile Carmenere | $10.99 | 39507 | 78 | #2; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-melted down Raisinettes; exactly like a Russian brand of currant fruit juice; TASTE-has some nice flavor up front, then nothing-- there's no transition flavors on the mid-palate, then it finishes w/ a lame attempt at grape taffy; GV-78 |
| # 465 Wed, May 14th, 2008 |
Chilean Carmenere Makes An Appearance - Episode #465 | 2006 | ERRAZURIZ CARMENERE SINGLE VINEYARD | Chile Carmenere | $19.98 | 39375 | 89 | #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-little Oak Monster; some vanilla; sun dried tomatoes & roasted peppers; really nice spiciness; smells like a shish kabob; TASTE-very cabernet like in it's approach; high levels of Oak, but there's so much balance in it's fruit; great mid-palate; I'd love this w/ a good old fashioned T-bone streak; a very solid effort; too over-oaked for me giving it a dairy component on the finish; wild strawberries bouncing around and cherry NERD candy flavors on the transition between the mid-palate and the long, rich finish which I like; it's a solid wine that needs food to tone down it's Oak; too Oaked for me, but those who adore & enjoy the Oak Monster should seek this; JR-90; GV-89 |
| # 464 Tue, May 13th, 2008 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Battle Royal And The BOOK Is Now OUT! - Episode #464 | 2005 | NEYERS AME PROPREITARY RED | Napa Cabernet | $63.98 | 39141 | 89+ | #4; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-huge dark chocolate; Nestle Quik; nice rounded plum flavors; barbeque smoke; TASTE-big massive fruit; very complex; lot of richness; definitely Oaky; very ripe blackberries; great mid-palate transition; very well structured; good wine; well made; well balanced; great structure & complexity; it's parts are kind of separate now, but should come together w/ age; RP-91/93; GV-89+ |
| # 464 Tue, May 13th, 2008 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Battle Royal And The BOOK Is Now OUT! - Episode #464 | 2005 | TOR KENWARD CIMAROSSA CABERNET SAUVIGNON | Napa Cabernet | $69.98 | 39268 | 92 | #2; COLOR-dark; NOSE-artificial grape; some subtle manure funk which I enjoy; smells like a fresh breeze; intense and awkward; a serious does of black herbal tea; TASTE-explosion of flavor on the palate has me excited; it's got real intensity; really small blackberries are ripping through the corner of my palate; nice length; has a metallic flavor--berry metallic; RP-93; GV-92 |
| # 464 Tue, May 13th, 2008 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Battle Royal And The BOOK Is Now OUT! - Episode #464 | 2005 | PAUL HOBBS NAPA CABERNET SAUVIGNON | Napa Cabernet | $65.98 | 38990 | 87 | #6; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-over-oaked; enormous vanilla; cedar box; a little tobacco which is nice, but a solid foundation of wood; TASTE-clearly an over-oaked Cabernet from California; not my style; cranberry; some New England wood; this kind of wine just bores me; RP-92; GV-87 |
| # 464 Tue, May 13th, 2008 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Battle Royal And The BOOK Is Now OUT! - Episode #464 | 2004 | ROCCA CABERNET SAUVIGNON | Napa Cabernet | $61.98 | 38278 | 94 | #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-this is very exotic; really wild tropical aromas that I reserve more for white wines than red wines; beautiful peach, mango, papaya, red fruit, little watermelon action; Wow, gorgeous fruit flavors; not too heavily oaked, little nail polish/perfume action; TASTE-Fruit Bomb City, but balanced which I find extraordinary; this fruit is a firework explosion of fruit in my mouth right now (blackberry, blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, cranberry); I'm talking about massive fruit in this wine surrounded by really well-polished, dark leather; by far the best of the bunch; one of the best California wines I've had in ages; this wine rips the house; I would be remiss to not talk about the obvious cocoa, Starbucky coffee bean, mocha city USA, this is a latte in my mouth w/ explosive red fruit; if this wine were a $100 bones, I'd buy it; I'm putting away 3-6 bottles for my cellar long term because of the backbone, tannins & structure to last 15-20 years; the flavor is so sweet & so delicious that I'm completely blown away; brings serious thunder; WS-93; GV-94 |
| # 464 Tue, May 13th, 2008 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Battle Royal And The BOOK Is Now OUT! - Episode #464 | 2004 | BENNETT LANE CABERNET SAUVIGNON | Napa Cabernet | $42.98 | 37340 | 89 | #5; COLOR-dark; NOSE-exactly like Beef Jerky; very dark; some nice foggy elements; little hint of pâté; interesting; a grape Roll-up action; a little minty action on the tail end; TASTE-good wine; good flavor; the tannins are a little bitter; some green coming through; a more Bordeaux-like approach; sun dried tomatoes; black cocoa; some raw tobacco coming through; WS-92; GV-89 |
| # 464 Tue, May 13th, 2008 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Battle Royal And The BOOK Is Now OUT! - Episode #464 | 2004 | ALTAMURA CABERNET SAUVIGNON | Napa Cabernet | $59.98 | 37349 | 90 | #3; COLOR-dark; NOSE-some black currant; a smokiness coming through; TASTE-a little too much sugar on the attack which then subsides and goes dark chocolate on the back-end; good richness & complexity; very dark; good elegance; nice wine; a tad of oak, but good balance; I like the vanilla/chocolate combination; I like the very pretty dark, dark cherries coming through; solid wine; RP-94; GV-90 |
| # 463 Mon, May 12th, 2008 |
Some Bubbles And A Guest - Episode #463 | N/V | MARENCO BRACHETTO d'ACQUI | Braquetto d\'Acqui | $15.98 | 16097 | 86-87 | #4; COLOR-reddish; NOSE-tight; little dark rose pedal; some Kirsch Royale; TASTE-high residual sugar; loaded w/ strawberry shortcake exploding in your mouth; rose pedals; very sweet; a huge winner for those who like sweet; lacks complexity; GV-86/87 |
| # 463 Mon, May 12th, 2008 |
Some Bubbles And A Guest - Episode #463 | N/V | LOUIS DE GRENELLE SAUMAR ROSE | French Brut Nonvintage | $13.99 | 34473 | 86-87 | #3; COLOR-beautiful pink; NOSE-grainy like Honey Clusters cereal; subtle raspberry; a hint of dusty chalk; TASTE-this is wild; really nice floral aspects (rose pedal) on the attack; grainy component; but then the Cab Franc brings a heavy veggie action on the finish (zucchini; celery stick); I can see many not liking this; very funky & complex finish; GV-86/87 |
| # 463 Mon, May 12th, 2008 |
Some Bubbles And A Guest - Episode #463 | N/V | GRUET BRUT DEMI SEC | Domestic Demi-Sec | $10.99 | 20854 | ?? | #2; COLOR-light golden; NOSE-beautiful honey-covered almonds; toasted crunch/baked bread component; a little apple; TASTE-apples for days; nice balance of dry & sweet; solid; GV-?? |
| # 463 Mon, May 12th, 2008 |
Some Bubbles And A Guest - Episode #463 | 1988 | DE VENOGE BRUT | French Brut Vintage | $99.99 | 37231 | 94+ | #1; COLOR-beautiful medium golden; NOSE-auto body shop; heavy; feet; rotten peanuts; hint of cheese; yeasty; heavy mushroom risotto; TASTE-this is complex city; graininess; obvious lemon city provides the acidity; kasha component; little forrest floor; very creamy on the mid-palate; very heavy; very complicated & complex; a golden pear component ripping on the back-end; this is really good, but needs a "BEWARE" sign; this may be too "out there" for newer bubbly drinkers; extremely serious; WS-97; GV-94+ |
| # 462 Fri, May 9th, 2008 |
Viognier Friday - Episode #462 | 2007 | LE PARADOU VIOGNIER | Other Rhone White Wine | $10.98 | 39043 | 87 | #1; COLOR-pale yellow; NOSE-really beautiful white flowers; white pepper; ocean saltiness meets minerality; papaya; TASTE-nice acidity; great grip on the back palate; I like the lime flavor; very mineral driven; very stoney & steely; crisp & clean; nice weight; solid complexity; textbook Viognier; not blowing me away, but very solid; GV-87 |
| # 462 Fri, May 9th, 2008 |
Viognier Friday - Episode #462 | 2006 | PELTIER STATION VIOGNIER | Other California White Rhone V | $13.98 | 38301 | 82 | #2; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-smokey; little oak; aerosol; baked bread aspect; TASTE-sweet; nice weight; cantelope profile; but this wine is hot and off-balance; GV-82 |
| # 460 Wed, May 7th, 2008 |
Rully Wines. Wines You Should Know From Burgundy! - Episode #460 | 2005 | OLIVIER LEFLAIVE RABOURCE RULLY | Rully/Mercurey/Givry Blanc | $19.98 | 38683 | 79 | #3; a Major VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-pale straw; NOSE-an interesting and heavy cantaloupe component; a little smokey burnt wood action; really nice apple core; TASTE-I'm not feeling this wine at all; a lot of heat on the mid-palate; overly acidic; I'm shocked at how disjointed and awkward this is; has some nice body, but just doesn't taste good; an awkward little bastard; AM-89; GV-79 |
| # 460 Wed, May 7th, 2008 |
Rully Wines. Wines You Should Know From Burgundy! - Episode #460 | 2005 | JAEGER DEFAIX RULLY RABOUCE BLANC | Rully/Mercurey/Givry Blanc | $20.98 | 33801 | 91 | #1; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-wow, this is interesting; enormously elegant; high end herbal tea infused w/ peaches; very pretty & fresh; TASTE-polished, elegant, refined; complex on the palate; big body; great w/ lobster or salmon or halibut; tremendous acidity on the back-end; sour apple ripping through my palate; really well made wine; little English pea component; the grip on your palate from mid-palate to the finish is exceptional; some crushed Graham crackers; elegant, yet powerful; a tremendous example of this region -- crisp & clean, not oaky, not buttery Chardonnay; nice price point compared to many Chardonnay's & White Burgundy's; AM-88/90; GV-91 |
| # 460 Wed, May 7th, 2008 |
Rully Wines. Wines You Should Know From Burgundy! - Episode #460 | 2005 | JAEGER DEFAIX RULLY LES CLOUX BLANC | Rully/Mercurey/Givry Blanc | $23.98 | 38982 | ?? | #2; COLOR-nice golden; NOSE-a eucalyptus component (Ricola); herbaceous; subtle butter; heavy star fruit; little tropical dose of papaya on the tail end; TASTE-some nice acidity; very polished and elegant; bringing some really nice complexities; very floral; like wild shrubs & bushes complex; extremely rich; long, long finish; AM-90; GV-?? |
| # 459 Tue, May 6th, 2008 |
The Secret Pack Includes A Pinot Noir, Sauternes And A Rioja - Episode #459 | 2005 | ESTANCIA PINOT NOIR STONEWALL | Other California Pinot Noir | $18.98 | 37854 | 90 | #3b; COLOR-dark; NOSE-very pretty; violets; bacon fat/spam action; wild strawberries; some black cherry cola; nice; TASTE-strawberry jam initially, then transitions to Canadian bacon action; an interesting acidity/tannin thing on the mid-palate; little hint of green pepper & Bloody Mary action on the mid-palate as well; I like the tannin structure which gives a little bitterness, but w/ another 3-5 years of cellaring the tannins will calm down; decanting it will help w/ this as well; a fundamentally sound and authentic Pinot for $19 bones; GV-90 |
| # 459 Tue, May 6th, 2008 |
The Secret Pack Includes A Pinot Noir, Sauternes And A Rioja - Episode #459 | 2006 | PRADO AYALA RIOJA | Rioja | $9.98 | 39091 | 90+ | #1; COLOR-very dark; NOSE-this smells like straight CRAP; classic cow manure mixed with soil; Old World musty; TASTE-I'm shocked right now -- this is exceptional; this is a home run; great concentration; inky; very grapey; really interesting earth tones & veggies; blackberries & blueberries for days; almost Bordeaux like with it's fruit & earth tones; cherries; intense & viscous; completely attacks your palate; this is a MUST have wine; this is my style -- a beautiful balance of Old & New World; one of the best $10 wines I've ever had on WLTV; JR-88; GV-90+ |
| # 459 Tue, May 6th, 2008 |
The Secret Pack Includes A Pinot Noir, Sauternes And A Rioja - Episode #459 | 2004 | MONTEVIEJO PETITE FLEUR | Argentine Malbec | $20.99 | 35081 | 90 | #3a; COLOR-dark; NOSE-this is some New World passion love; this is pretty; extreme teenage girl perfume; very candy; very happy; pure strawberry reduction jam; TASTE-a little too New World for me, but many will love; but has balance; this is really solid; extremely well made; great structure; it's so dry (pucker city); great complexity; a dry huge wine that is bringing some serious thunder; a little too fruity near the beginning, but other than that, this wine is on point; GV-90 |
| # 459 Tue, May 6th, 2008 |
The Secret Pack Includes A Pinot Noir, Sauternes And A Rioja - Episode #459 | 2004 | CHATEAU PETIT VEDRINES | Sauternes and Other Dessert | $11.99 | 32374 | 89-90 | #2; COLOR-beautiful medium to dark golden; NOSE-rubber kickball's smeared with apricots; TASTE-a little lighter than most sauternes, but it's extremely good; a perfect pairing with NY style cheesecake; an absolutely solid bottle of $12 sauternes; WS-99; GV-89/90 |
| # 458 Mon, May 5th, 2008 |
A Guest And Some Shiraz - Episode #458 | 2006 | NUGAN ESTATE SHIRAZ | Australian Shiraz/Syrah | $9.98 | 38403 | 85 | #3; COLOR-dark; NOSE-Welch's grape juice/soda action; grape fun dip; TASTE-very fruity; interesting mid-palate of grape jam (like a melted push-ups); little hint of black pepper on the back-end; some pretty severe tannins on the back-end as well; very serviceable for $10 bones; solid fruit; it's clean; good mid-palate; but the finish is a little awkward and finish; JM-88; GV-85 |
| # 458 Mon, May 5th, 2008 |
A Guest And Some Shiraz - Episode #458 | 2002 | EPPALOCK RIDGE SHIRAZ | Australian Shiraz/Syrah | $19.99 | 35493 | 91+ | #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-like an underground wine cellar; some earth tones; some veggies (Brussel sprout) on the finish; nice Old World attack on the nose; TASTE-crazy silky smooth; very polished; very heavy asparagus buds on the mid-palate, but finishes with pure chocolate polish; very deep and dark; Rhone-like earthy characteristics; this wine is: bright, polished, elegant, balanced; it's earthy, yet fruity; I love it; very pure & true; the silkiness is overwhelming; ; second tier tobacco flavor; an exceptional value (like $40-$60 Shiraz's); my style Shiraz; RP-91; GV-91+ |
| # 458 Mon, May 5th, 2008 |
A Guest And Some Shiraz - Episode #458 | 2005 | GLEN ELDON DRY BORE SHIRAZ | Australian Shiraz/Syrah | $20.98 | 38616 | 87 | #4; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-very tight; a little vanilla and a tiny hint of cedar; a bit of deep dark black cherry; TASTE-this wine has balls; massive Pomegranate; a grape Laffy Taffy; very polished; little Oak; hint of chopped up dark chocolate on the back-end; nice finish; it's big, but it tails off on the finish; JM-91; GV-87 |
| # 458 Mon, May 5th, 2008 |
A Guest And Some Shiraz - Episode #458 | 2004 | HAZY BLUR MCLAREN VALE SHIRAZ | Australian Shiraz/Syrah | $33.98 | 9075 | 90 | #2; COLOR-dark; NOSE-chalky; dusty Swiss Miss cocoa; fresh mint spray; TASTE-it's very inky; really intense fruit; the tannins are kind of sweet and get a little bitter on the back-end, but should calm down; this has good potential (should be put away for 3-5 years); RP-93; GV-90 |
| # 457 Fri, May 2nd, 2008 |
Vernaccia Wines From Italy, Another White Wine To Pay Attention To. - Episode #457 | N/V | FONTALEONI VERNACCIA DI SAN GIMIGNANO | Vernaccia di San Gimignano | $9.98 | 18182 | 87 | #1; COLOR-light straw; NOSE-I like the hay component; little citrus (lemon peel); TASTE-nice mid-palate; solid acidity; crisp & clean; more than serviceable; good body; nice richness; little hints of caramel on the back-end; also some chalkiness and heat on the finish; very solid; GV-87 |
| # 457 Fri, May 2nd, 2008 |
Vernaccia Wines From Italy, Another White Wine To Pay Attention To. - Episode #457 | 2006 | SOVESTRO VERNACCIA DI SAN GIMIGNANO | Vernaccia di San Gimignano | $13.98 | 38330 | 82 | #2; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-straw; NOSE-quick shot of Vick's vapor rub; some Kiwi fruit and some sugar cane action; TASTE-interesting & challenging on the palate, but I don't like it much; a lime citrus blast, but then gets awkward; very hollow on the mid-palate, then finishes a little weak & boring; a little bit of pear; GV-82 |
| # 455 Wed, April 30th, 2008 |
Tempranillo From 3 Different Countries - Episode #455 | 2006 | LA LINDA TEMPRANILLO | Argentine Tempranillo | $7.99 | 32683 | 89+ | #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-an interesting IHOP blueberry syrup; crushed up Smarties candy action; little cocoa action; very appealing nose for $8 bones; TASTE-this is a tremendous value; just a hair of bitter tannins on the finish, but that's me really nitpicking; this is an extraordinary value; a like the dark pepper on the back-end; this is awesome; clarity of fruit; balance; elegance; charisma; clean & complex; really nice dry earth tone; little watermelon leaf; gorgeous red berries dancing throughout my palate; nice long finish; a little tannic on the back-end, but this is good; I love this; an absolute steal at $8 bones; GV-89+ |
| # 455 Wed, April 30th, 2008 |
Tempranillo From 3 Different Countries - Episode #455 | 2004 | ARZUAGA PAGO FLORENTINO | Other Spanish Red Wine | $15.98 | 38174 | 55 | #3; VaynerPAZZZZZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-a huuuuuge Oak Monster attack; some creamy berry action; TASTE-medicine-y; extracted; ton of Oak (Vanilla & Cedar); hard to taste the fruit; many like this style, but not for me; the most over-oaked wine in WLTV history; JM-89; GV-55 |
| # 455 Wed, April 30th, 2008 |
Tempranillo From 3 Different Countries - Episode #455 | 2004 | COUNTRY ROADS TEMPRANILLO | Other California Red Wine | $29.98 | 38412 | 90 | #2; COLOR-really dark; NOSE-I love this; loaded w/ a blend of basil, mint & pickle juice; heavy blackberry; some crushed Ants (??); little vanilla almond; TASTE-very New World in it's attack; thick & viscous; this has some nice vegetables (basil, oregano & cucumber skins) mixed in w/ gobs & gobs of nice fruit; this has been American-ized (brightness of fruit and good weight); a very solid bottle; New World Cab & Shiraz fans would love this wine; polished; a lot of pickle juice too; the finish is a KILLER; GV-90 |
| # 454 Tue, April 29th, 2008 |
Cornas Wines From The Rhone - Episode #454 | 2005 | PARIS CORNAS GRANIT 60 | Cornas | $39.98 | 34510 | 91 | #1b; COLOR-dark; NOSE-heavy spice action; obnoxious black & white pepper; Paprika; cherry & beef jerky; leathery & gamey; TASTE-extremely dry; very solid back-end tannins; this is a Big Boy; loaded w/ heavily peppered steak; black licorice; tight on the back-end (would love to see what this does in 7 years); great balance & elegance; I like this, but it needs to be sideways for at least 3 years; WS-93; GV-91 |
| # 454 Tue, April 29th, 2008 |
Cornas Wines From The Rhone - Episode #454 | 2003 | JEAN LUC COLOMBO CORNAS LOUVEE | Cornas | $65.99 | 4774 | 89 | #2; VaynerPAZZZ (based on QPR); COLOR-dark; NOSE-a little like mayonnaise; sour cream; obvious blackberries; hot jam reduction meets body shop meets mayonnaise; exotic; a little tight; TASTE-massive tannic monster; an aggressive bottle of wine; very gamey; cherries & raspberries surrounded by floral aspect (violet); a little boring, but good; RP-93; GV-89 |
| # 454 Tue, April 29th, 2008 |
Cornas Wines From The Rhone - Episode #454 | 2005 | TARDIEU LAURENT CORNAS VV | Cornas | $59.98 | 38271 | 93 | #1a; COLOR-dark; NOSE-exciting & explosive rainbow action; big fruit; strawberry fruit roll-up; Skittles; gorgeous candied fruit flavors for days; TASTE-great tannin & backbone structure; massively made, but somewhat approachable now (but decant for 5-6 hours); this is a New World fruit bomb city, but balanced out w/ complexities & elegance; second tier vegetal and earthy flavors; spices; charisma; authenticity; awesomeness & radoolocity; this is ripping, phenomenal juice; this is an exceptional, textbook example of what classic New age Cornas is all about ; WS-95; GV-93 |
| # 453 Mon, April 28th, 2008 |
Gruner And A South African White Blend - Episode #453 | 2006 | BERHARD OTT FASS 4 GRUNER VELTLINER | Austrian Gruner Veltliner | $16.98 | 37621 | 91 | #1a; COLOR-golden; NOSE-beautiful peaches w/ hint of butter; very pretty; little mars mellow & lime spritzer components; TASTE-this is ripping good; tremendous minerality; some blue stone; gorgeous peach flavor; tremendous weight (heavier than most GV's); this is really "Bringing the Thunder"; gorgeous lemon/lime zest; clean minerality & very focused acidity on the mid-palate; an out & out STEAL for $17 bones; PM-91; GV-91 |
| # 453 Mon, April 28th, 2008 |
Gruner And A South African White Blend - Episode #453 | 2006 | MEINHARD FORSTREITER GRUNER VELTLINER TABOR | Austrian Gruner Veltliner | $29.98 | 39046 | 90 | #2; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-passion fruit w/ smokey aspect; TASTE-intense; great acidity; heavy layer of chalk on the mouthfeel; little unfocused on the back-end; all in all a monstrous wine w/ great raw talent which I think will come together over time; there's an interesting lemon scented kitchen cleaning component on the back-end; I'm yearning a piece of cheese; this could be special w/ food; WS-94; GV-90 |
| # 453 Mon, April 28th, 2008 |
Gruner And A South African White Blend - Episode #453 | 2006 | SADIE FAMILY PALLADIUS | Other South African White Win | $49.98 | 38404 | 93 | #1b; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-this is wild; very interesting; a wild blend of melted down Ricola candy, mint, graininess & pears; also has grassy & smokey components; TASTE-this wine is RiDONKulous; complete explosion & palate takeover; this completely coats the palate; gorgeous bright & intense yellow fruit flavors (pears, papayas, lemons); little basil leaf action; creaminess; vanilla FOR DAYS on the back-end; custard, whipped cream; very creamy in it's approach, while still being fresh & fruity; nice solid balance between the fruit & acidity; this is a monstrous white wine; an imaginary blend of a White Bordeaux & CdP Blanc; it explodes for days; I like this wine a lot; starts creamy, then acidic, then creamy again; this is extraordinary; this will easily last for 10 years; an absolute eye-opener; WS-92; GV-93 |
| # 452 Fri, April 25th, 2008 |
Recommendation DAY! Kosher Wine With Matzah And Washington State Wine And More - Episode #452 | 2005 | BARON HERZOG RUSSIAN RIVER CHARDONNAY SPECIAL RESERVE | Other California Kosher | $22.98 | 34023 | 87 | #3; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-light golden; NOSE-vanilla bean meets a little buttered oak w/ a little dandelion; TASTE-nice massive fruit; good balance; a little lighter than I remember it; really interesting papaya on the mid-palate transitions to a little heat; GV-87 |
| # 451 Thu, April 24th, 2008 |
Date Night Wines - Episode #451 | 2007 | ARTADI ARTAZURI GARNACHA ROSATO NAVARRA | Other Spanish Blush Wine | $9.98 | 39226 | 87 | #2; COLOR-dark pink; NOSE-heavy floral (rose pedal), some sour strawberry; aerosol component; TASTE-high acidity (good for food pairing); a Bazooka Joe bubble gum component meets baby strawberry; crisp, clean & easy drinking; JM-87; GV-87 |
| # 451 Thu, April 24th, 2008 |
Date Night Wines - Episode #451 | 2006 | TREANA WHITE MERITAGE | Other California White Meritag | $16.98 | 39139 | 90 | #1; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-like sour kraut & mustard; TASTE-extremely full bodied; tremendous length; really nice citrus & butter component; subtle papaya on the back-end; really well made; this is a DARN good effort; I'm really excited about this effort; GV-90 |
| # 451 Thu, April 24th, 2008 |
Date Night Wines - Episode #451 | 2006 | ELIO PERRONE BARBERA D'ASTI | Barbera d'Asti | $12.98 | 39228 | 87+ | #3; COLOR-dark; NOSE-potpourri; hint of Oak; cherry w/ a little mint on the back-end; TASTE-interesting pomegranate; I like this wine; very floral; it's light; it's clean; I really enjoy the simplistic strawberry & cherry flavors on the back-end; GV-87+ |
| # 450 Wed, April 23rd, 2008 |
Wines That Don't Hurt Your Wallet! - Episode #450 | 2006 | ANSELMO MENDES ANDREZA LOUREIRO | Other Portuguese White Wine | $9.99 | 37712 | 88 | #2; COLOR-light golden; NOSE-some interesting minerality; a little tropical (Passion fruit & Guava); hint of green leaves; very pleasant; TASTE-light; a very obvious Granny Smith apple; an aluminum/steel component; good back-end acidity; nice w/ shellfish; nice elegance; light, crisp & clean; nice porch wine; a nice textbook Vinho Verde (Loureiro) for $10 bones; MS-90; GV-88 |
| # 450 Wed, April 23rd, 2008 |
Wines That Don't Hurt Your Wallet! - Episode #450 | 2006 | EVIL CABERNET SAUVIGNON | Australian Cabernet Sauvignon | $8.49 | 38393 | 80 | #4; VaynerPAZZZZZZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-classic Aussie fake smell; little black cherry & nice mocha; TASTE-very heavy green spinach component on the mid-palate to the finish; 15% alcohol level and the quality of this fruit is unable to contain it; very awkward; completely disjointed; flavors are very simplistic; honestly, it tastes like a jug wine; JM-90; GV-80 |
| # 450 Wed, April 23rd, 2008 |
Wines That Don't Hurt Your Wallet! - Episode #450 | 2006 | CASTANO MONASTRELL | Other Spanish Red Wine | $6.98 | 33165 | 84 | #3; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-some subtle cherries; I really like the kick of black pepper; an interesting soy sauce/seaweed component; big blast of Basil/Oregano; TASTE-very dry; nice subtle cherry; but it's basic and a little awkward; the tannins are too high (would benefit from 2-3 hour decant); soy sauce/ seaweed is neat, but the finish is so bitter & tannic; it's solid; I don't hate it, but I don't love it; the finish is difficult; JR-90; GV-84 |
| # 450 Wed, April 23rd, 2008 |
Wines That Don't Hurt Your Wallet! - Episode #450 | 2003 | TAJA JUMILLA RESERVA | Other Spanish Red Wine | $8.99 | 36193 | 90 | #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-beautiful dark chocolate and raspberry jam components; tiny hint of mint (Andes Candy); some paprika & hints of Goji berries; TASTE-polished; elegant & REAL; complex, rich & has nice balance; nice transition from the beef jerky on the mid-palate to nice silky fruit on the back-end; a gorgeous tobacco component on the tail-end; black cassis coming through; really well made & polished for $9 price point; great w/ steak & other meats, but also has the elegance to pair w/ some fish as well; worth seeking out; WS-90; GV-90 |
| # 449 Tue, April 22nd, 2008 |
Greco Di Tufo Wine Tasting - Episode #449 | 2006 | TORRICINO GRECO DI TUFO | Greco di Tufo | $14.98 | 38374 | 86+ | #3; COLOR-beautiful golden; NOSE-gorgeous; lemon peel; corn on the cob with butter component; creaminess; hint of Conch shell; TASTE-really solid acidity; grips your palate; great transition from the lemon on the attack to a grainy component; lots of lime; buttered lobster w/ lemon juice comes to mind; little passion fruit; good body; little zing on the finish; GV-86+ |
| # 449 Tue, April 22nd, 2008 |
Greco Di Tufo Wine Tasting - Episode #449 | 2005 | AMINEA GRECO DI TUFO | Greco di Tufo | $15.98 | 39053 | 72 | #4; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-like the inside of a BMX tire (rubber component); lime; subtle cauliflower aspect on the finish; TASTE-very subtle & light; very elegant; too light & lacking personality; I don't like this at all; almost no tasting note; GV-72 |
| # 449 Tue, April 22nd, 2008 |
Greco Di Tufo Wine Tasting - Episode #449 | 2006 | PETILIA GRECO DI TUFO | Greco di Tufo | $13.98 | 34800 | 89 | #2; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-smokey burnt rubber; TASTE-razor sharp acidity; asparagus tips & celery; some honey dew action; I really like it; complete & complex; GV-89 |
| # 449 Tue, April 22nd, 2008 |
Greco Di Tufo Wine Tasting - Episode #449 | N/V | VESEVO GRECO DI TUFO | Greco di Tufo | $15.98 | 39045 | 91 | #1; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-honey & honeysuckle; beautiful lemon zest; great Mango component; very pretty; TASTE-textbook balance of great acidity, good fruit & great weight; gorgeous Mangos ripping up and down my palate; great length; beautiful lemon peel; little subtle green banana coming through; crisp & clean; a massive Home Run; GV-91 |
| # 448 Mon, April 21st, 2008 |
California Zinfandel Death Match - Episode #448 | 2004 | TRES SABORES RUTHERFORD ZINFANDEL | Napa Red Zinfandel | $23.98 | 33038 | 88 | #2; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-very big; beautiful chocolate covered cherries; some strawberry fruit roll-ups; little hint of white pepper; little beef jerky action; TASTE-good mouthfeel; very solid dark complex fruit; a little hot on the finish; very ripe & explosive; dark chocolate component; Paprika on the mid-palate transitioning to sour & slightly bitter pomegranate; interesting cherry cola; a little bitter & hot on the finish; RP-90; GV-88 |
| # 448 Mon, April 21st, 2008 |
California Zinfandel Death Match - Episode #448 | 2005 | NEYERS ZINFANDEL HIGH VALLEY | Other California Red Zinfandel | $23.98 | 37012 | 93 | #1; COLOR-interesting forrest floor; tons of black pepper; gorgeous fresh picked strawberries; Kirsch Royale; NOSE-fascinating; silky; this is a monster, but not over-the-top; intense cranberry; beautiful dark cassis rounded out w/ great pepper & strawberries; gorgeous mouthfeel; silkiness for days; it's meaty; this has density, structure & complexity; full bodied, intense spectacular effort; Kudos to Neyers who killed it'; Balanced, Complete & Complex (BCC); TASTE-great; RP-91; GV-93 |
| # 448 Mon, April 21st, 2008 |
California Zinfandel Death Match - Episode #448 | 2005 | RIDGE LYTTON SPRINGS ZINFANDEL | Sonoma Red Zinfandel | $28.98 | 33983 | 85 | #3; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-not appealing; smells a little like NY garbage; one day old mushy cereal; little oyster shell; TASTE-lighter than previous Lytton Springs; a little bland & boring; some dark cherry flavors; kind of nice & silky, but simple; a bad batch of blueberries; WS-88; GV-85 |
| # 447 Fri, April 18th, 2008 |
Hanging Out With Justin On A Laid Back Friday - Epsiode #447 | 2005 | JUSTIN ISOSCELES | Other California Red Meritage | $51.99 | 38999 | 89 | COLOR-dark; NOSE-lots of jammy fruit; heavy dose of wood; blackberry currant & raspberry jam; TASTE-massive complexity; great richness; back-end tannins; huge massive ripeness; extracted; very over-the-top; this is a fruit bomb; some Oak Monster; many people like this kind of California Cab; very big style; very inky and dark; very explosive and rich, many will like this style, but a little over-the-top and fakey-fake for me; GV-89 |
| # 446 Thu, April 17th, 2008 |
Chassagne Montrachet 2005 Tasting - Episode #446 | 2005 | LOUIS JADOT CHASSAGNE MONTRACHET | Chassagne Montrachet | $37.98 | 35733 | 87 | #3; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-golden; NOSE-the Oak Monster is in the house; real nice apple core; some pear; egg nog w/ nutmeg; very woody; TASTE-solid on the upfront attack, but falls apart; a little hot on the finish; apple core; oaky buttery component; the heat on the finish hurts it; may do better w/ a few years in the bottle; GV-87 |
| # 446 Thu, April 17th, 2008 |
Chassagne Montrachet 2005 Tasting - Episode #446 | 2005 | LAMY-PILLOT CAILLERETS CHASSAGNE MONTRACHET | Chassagne Montrachet | $59.99 | 34483 | 92 | #2; COLOR-nice medium golden; NOSE-beautiful hazel nuts; toast w/ butter; very nice subtle flowers; hints of oak & butter; TASTE-Wow, fresh sliced almonds; pear; gorgeous; complete complexity; I love the acidity level matching the gorgeous fruit; crazy length & complexity; this is a wine for serious white wine drinkers; golden apple is ripping; really nice subtle guava & papaya; goes into a complex steely & stony finish; completely elegant and harmonious; GV-92 |
| # 446 Thu, April 17th, 2008 |
Chassagne Montrachet 2005 Tasting - Episode #446 | 2005 | FONTAINE GAGNARD LA ROMANEE CHASSAGNE MONTRACHET | Chassagne Montrachet | $69.98 | 30150 | 94+ | #1; COLOR-beautiful golden; NOSE-very toasty & woody; hints of lime skin; egg custard action; TASTE-this is also very serious Chardonnay; more classic w/ some higher acidity; this has dart-like focus which I love; great melon/cantaloupe component; this is RIPPING!! this is sensational, complex & complete Chardonnay; very focused & rich; some graininess; silky; GV-94+ |
| # 445 Wed, April 16th, 2008 |
Chenin Blanc Taste Off. A Grape That Deserves More Respect - Episode #445 | N/V | DRY CREEK CHENIN BLANC | Napa Chenin Blanc | $8.99 | 19120 | 86+ | #3; COLOR-light golden; NOSE-very clean; nice melon flavor; nice tropical fruit (pineapple, guava, mango); TASTE-nice; fruity; a little too high on residual sugar for me, but shouldn't turn off a lot of people; very elegant; little heat on the back-end; nice solid acidity; some apple on the finish; falls apart a little on the finish; but a solid entry level Chenin Blanc; GV-86+ |
| # 445 Wed, April 16th, 2008 |
Chenin Blanc Taste Off. A Grape That Deserves More Respect - Episode #445 | 2006 | FRANCOIS CHIDAINE TOURAINE BLANC | Touraine | $9.99 | 37696 | 88 | #2; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-a soapy component; toasted bread; Tofu; grainy cereal; little spritz of lemon; TASTE-a tad light, but this is very good; good acidity; great little green apple; fall leaves; really good acidity on the back-end; a black tea component; very interesting; some sour grapefruit; I really like it; for $10 bones this is a must try for those drinking Pinot Grigio & Sauvignon Blanc; GV-88 |
| # 445 Wed, April 16th, 2008 |
Chenin Blanc Taste Off. A Grape That Deserves More Respect - Episode #445 | 2007 | CEDERBERG CHENIN BLANC | South African Chenin Blanc | $11.98 | 38987 | 89+ | #1; COLOR-light golden; NOSE-really interesting; green pepper; basil; fresh cut grass and a hint or jalapeno; huge fresh squeezed grapefruit; little chive action; a KILLER nose; TASTE-extremely grassy; very crisp & clean; in a blind tasting, I would think it was a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc (except for the flint/blue stone action); papaya on the mid-palate; crisp & clean; a KILLER; a great value; GV-89+ |
| # 444 Tue, April 15th, 2008 |
A Celebration Due To A Big Announcement: CHAMPAGNE Time! - Episode #444 | N/V | LUIGI BOSCA LA LINDA BRUT | Other Countries Brut Nonvintag | $12.98 | 38954 | 87 | #2; COLOR-gorgeous golden; NOSE-rice pudding component; little almond shell & little hints of butter; TASTE-very crisp & fresh; definite upgrade from Korbel; interesting nuttiness (and SS quotes, "I mean...who doesn't like some nice nuts in their mouth." NTTAWWT); little hints of mustard; really creamy on the finish; a little hot on the back-end; nice solid entry level bubbly; GV-87 |
| # 444 Tue, April 15th, 2008 |
A Celebration Due To A Big Announcement: CHAMPAGNE Time! - Episode #444 | N/V | LALLEMENT BRUT RESERVE | French Brut Nonvintage | $41.99 | 3430 | 88+ | #3; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-golden; NOSE-very funky; a truffle component; little blue stone; little hints of walnuts & baked bread; TASTE-very heavy with fresh crushed Apple cider component; loaded w/ apple for days; but a little limited & one dimensional; WS-91; GV-88+ |
| # 444 Tue, April 15th, 2008 |
A Celebration Due To A Big Announcement: CHAMPAGNE Time! - Episode #444 | 1998 | LEGRAS CHARDONNAY DE VIEILLES VIGNES | French Brut Vintage | $64.99 | 36858 | 93+ | #1; COLOR-golden; NOSE-complex; oyster shell; gorgeous hint of Guava; Grape Nuts component; a little smokey; very interesting; TASTE-this is really good; really gorgeous pear; hint of Guava; very Grape Nutty & grainy; very complex; great second tier flavor profile; great ripping acidity; very clever & complex; this rivals some of the top cuvees; a classic Champagne; the fruit is youthful while having some back-end complexities & maturity; ST-90; GV-93+ |
| # 443 Mon, April 14th, 2008 |
2004 Barolo Tasting - Episode #443 | 2004 | MARENGO BAROLO BRICCO LE VIOLE | Barolo | $43.98 | 38628 | 89 | #3; VaynerPAZZZ (based on QPR); COLOR-dark; NOSE-beautiful pomegranate; extremely floral; lilac & lavender; little parmesan/mushroom action; dark cherries; very pretty nose; TASTE-this wine is dry; very heavy on the tannins; austere; little rusty nail coming through; very big, bitter back-end tannins; great length; I'm enjoying the mix of charcoal / rusty nail / raspberry / strawberry; but the bitter tannins are putting me off a bit; will get better w/ 5-7 years in the cellar; AG-91; GV-89 |
| # 443 Mon, April 14th, 2008 |
2004 Barolo Tasting - Episode #443 | 2004 | RENATO CORINO BAROLO ARBORINA | Barolo | $51.98 | 38629 | 92 | #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-little tight; a pretty cinnamon component (somewhat common in Barolo); little hints of roasted red pepper; & classic sour cherry; TASTE-far more elegant; REALLY impressed w/ the silkiness of this wine; this wine is good; great complexity; very dry; great length; huge explosion; little oregano/sage/basil on the mid-palate that goes into this gorgeous, silky, long, extracted, cherry sauce reduction sauce finish; but great back-end tannins & structure; can easily last 15-20 years in the cellar; I'm in love w/ the plum skin and the cranberry; if you want to experience a classic textbook Barolo, seek this out; AG-92; GV-92 |
| # 443 Mon, April 14th, 2008 |
2004 Barolo Tasting - Episode #443 | 2004 | GRIMALDI BAROLO LE COSTE | Barolo | $53.98 | 38622 | 90 | #2; COLOR-dark; NOSE-the most New World of the 3; little cream puff; raspberry tart; heavy & obvious rhubarb; some apple; underlying peppermint; exotic; chocolate covered cherries; strawberry fruit roll-up; TASTE-really heavy old world tobacco flavor on the mid-palate (some will be turned off); then surrounded by New World flavor (a little confused); but has big potential; very young; I like it, but not exactly my cup of tea, but many would like; AG-93; GV-90 |
| # 440 Wed, April 9th, 2008 |
Washington vs New York Riesling Taste Off - Episode #440 | 2006 | HERMAN WIEMER SEMI DRY RIESLING | New York Riesling | $15.98 | 37635 | 89 | #3; COLOR-golden; NOSE-great fruit; little Honeycomb cereal; some apple; steely flinty action; TASTE-nice golden apple; little hint of residual sugar; very crisp & clean; great backbone dryness on the back-end; very solid & clean; little mix of apple & blue stone on the back-end; little hint of sweetness; GV-89 |
| # 440 Wed, April 9th, 2008 |
Washington vs New York Riesling Taste Off - Episode #440 | 2006 | DR. FRANK DRY RIESLING | New York Riesling | $14.99 | 31313 | 85 | #5; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-golden; NOSE-steel component; heavy Ocean stone; clamshell component; TASTE-very dry; little awkward; some Old World complexity, but tastes like a cheap Alsatian Riesling; a little awkward & disjointed; unfocused; a little flabby; GV-85 |
| # 440 Wed, April 9th, 2008 |
Washington vs New York Riesling Taste Off - Episode #440 | 2006 | SHELDRAKE DRY RIESLING | New York Riesling | $12.98 | 35411 | 80 | #6; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-golden; NOSE-petrol & peach; pretty basic; a little Parmigianino cheese action; TASTE-very dry; nice acidity, but not a pleasant flavor profile; basic Granny Smith apples and that's it; GV-80 |
| # 440 Wed, April 9th, 2008 |
Washington vs New York Riesling Taste Off - Episode #440 | 2006 | CHATEAU ST MICHELLE EROICA RIESLING | Washington Riesling | $16.99 | 33197 | 87 | #4; VaynerPAZZZ (based on QPR); COLOR-golden; NOSE-tight; little hint of apple; TASTE-subtle hint of petrol; Granny Smith apple; little hint of Kiwi on the mid-palate; I like the weight of this wine; it's has good mouthfeel presence, but it's very average; good acidity; JM-91; GV-87 |
| # 439 Tue, April 8th, 2008 |
Sangiovese Taste Off - Episode #439 | 2006 | CASANOVA DI NERI ROSSO DI MONTALCINO | Rosso di Montalcino | $19.98 | 38235 | No Score | COLOR-dark; NOSE-pretty tight; young wine; some interesting rose berry coming through; some cherries; and a rhubarb/tar pie; TASTE-very heavy, bitter, dark, deep tannins; way too young right now; some nice fruit in the beginning, but funky & awkward after that; extremely chewy & tannic; very young and tight; too young to score right now; GV-No Score (too yonung) |
| # 439 Tue, April 8th, 2008 |
Sangiovese Taste Off - Episode #439 | 2005 | LUNA NAPA SANGIOVESE | Napa Italian Varieties | $17.98 | 34432 | 79 | VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-Oak Monster is here; lots of fruit; heavy plum; very Aussie-like nose; TASTE-I don't like this wine at all; over-oaked; over-extracted; cherry-rhubarb jam; globs of Oak & fruit; some might like as it is fruity, but so basic; just not my style; GV-79 |
| # 438 Mon, April 7th, 2008 |
A 2004 Bordeaux Tasting With Some Friends - Episode #438 | 2004 | CHAT LYONNAT LUSSAC ST EMILION | St Emilion | $17.59 | 36150 | 79 | #3; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-pretty tight; little hint of cherry; an awkward soap component; TASTE-not so good; downright bad; very awkward; not mid-palate; too much greenness; bitter tannins on the back-end; GV-79 |
| # 438 Mon, April 7th, 2008 |
A 2004 Bordeaux Tasting With Some Friends - Episode #438 | 2004 | CHATEAU SANSONNET | St Emilion | $35.99 | 37648 | 91+ | #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-a mixture of beautiful cherry/strawberry; a little cedar box; also a Crème Brule component; TASTE-this wine is desert dry; gorgeous coffee & mocha on the mid-palate that transitions beautifully to cigar meets white asparagus head meets a bunch of plum, cherry & raspberry; extreme length; great body; this wine will sing in 36-48 months; also has the backbone to last 15-20 years easy; top class balanced Bordeaux; this wine is Killer; GV-91+ |
| # 438 Mon, April 7th, 2008 |
A 2004 Bordeaux Tasting With Some Friends - Episode #438 | 2004 | CLOS SAINT MARTIN | St Emilion | $64.98 | 36559 | 91 | #2; COLOR-dark; NOSE-beautiful cherries; lots of Creamsicle; tremendous; minty eucalyptus; gorgeous black raspberry; very explosive; TASTE-obnoxiously silky smooth; has big weight; I love the purple candyesque on the mid-palate; it gets a little vegetal and raw on the finish; little venison action; really good wine; great for short term drinking over the next 5-10 years; RP-90; GV-91 |
| # 437 Fri, April 4th, 2008 |
Laid Back Friday With A Playmate And Some Cheese - Episode #437 | 2005 | FETISH PLAYMATES | Australian Red Meritage | $15.99 | 35473 | 88 | COLOR-dark; NOSE-very fruity w/ some tremendous cherries & strawberries on top; this is a Skittles rainbow wine; some fake fruit action; very massive; some Orange citrus component; TASTE-very obvious & concentrated Polaner real grape jam action; lots of candy action (grape flavored "Fun Dip"); pretty balanced though; not as over-the-top as many fruit bombs (more controlled); a nice charcoal component; a smoked Barbeque rib flavor coming through along w/ this heavy dosage of fruit candy aspects; definitely a Parker style wine; a little too fake fruit for me, but it has nice seductive fruit, entry level complexity and just tastes good (high sugar level); many would like this; RP-90/92; GV-88 |
| # 436 Thu, April 3rd, 2008 |
Sauvignon Blanc Taste Off - Episode #436 | 2007 | HANNA SAUVIGNON BLANC | Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc | $11.98 | 38724 | 89 | #1(tie); COLOR-light golden; NOSE-pretty; some really nice pear; some pineapple jam; subtle green pepper; TASTE-a new soda flavor -- this is lime/pear combo; great acidity; not razor sharp, but paper cut sharp; I like the pear & lime; nice solid fruit; acidic, crisp, clean & fresh; GV-89 |
| # 436 Thu, April 3rd, 2008 |
Sauvignon Blanc Taste Off - Episode #436 | 2006 | SPY VALLEY SAUVIGNON BLANC | New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc | $11.98 | 37175 | 89 | #1(tie); COLOR-light golden; NOSE-grass & grapefruit; a little tight; TASTE-heavy grapefruit; some grassiness; mango & papaya; tropical (like a vacation) acidic, crisp, clean & fresh; WS-90; GV-89 |
| # 435 Wed, April 2nd, 2008 |
WBW French Cabernet Franc - Episode #435 | 2005 | GASNIER CHINON VIEILLES VIGNES | Chinon | $13.98 | 37946 | 89-90 | #2; COLOR-dark; NOSE-English Peas; heavy celery root; turnip component; very sour black cherries; TASTE-medium to full bodied; has a nice leathery component; I appreciate that this is bone dry; I love the plum skin component on the mouthfeel; little hints of black pepper; tremendous length; great meatiness; the mid-palate is a little hollow; the finish is solid, but not incredible; a little dry for some people, but I like this wine; can cellar for 3-5 years; GV-89+/90 |
| # 435 Wed, April 2nd, 2008 |
WBW French Cabernet Franc - Episode #435 | 2005 | DOMAINE DE LA BUTTE MI PENTE | Bourgueil | $28.99 | 38089 | 91-92 | #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-intense; one of the heaviest pomegranate noses ever on WLTV; surrounded by red radishes until your face falls off; like a farmers market; little bit of pickle juice; very complex & complete; a little dark chocolate; TASTE-this wine is bringing thunder; really dry; a more polished, sophisticated & seasoned version of the last wine ('05 Gasnier Chinon Vielles Vignes); more polished & elegant version; more refined & cleaner on the transition; really well made; Bordeaux lovers should like this wine; heavy English pea flavor profile; I like the dryness, complexity & weight of this wine; tremendous food wine; reminds me of a super wealthy 47 year old business man who also wants to play basketball in Harlem; can cellar for 5-10 years; DS-91/92; GV-91/92 |
| # 435 Wed, April 2nd, 2008 |
WBW French Cabernet Franc - Episode #435 | 1990 | OLGA RAFFAULT CHINON LES PICASSES | Chinon | $44.98 | 35453 | 87 | #3; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-medium dark; NOSE-solid barnyard poop components (like a 4H Fair); TASTE-very classic; lighter mouthfeel than the 2 previous wines; I like the complexity & inkiness; beautiful cabbage flavors on the mid-palate; dry & tart; smooth; a little tired (it might be taking a nap at 4:30pm while watching "Matlock"); missing a little pizzazz; a little lighter and awkward than I expected; I like, but a PAZZZ for $42 bones; drink now; JG-92; GV-87 |
| # 434 Tue, April 1st, 2008 |
Secret Pack Tasting On April Fools Day - Episode #434 | 2003 | CHATEAU CANTELYS BLANC | Graves/Pessac-Leognan | $21.99 | 32217 | 90 | #2; COLOR-medium golden; NOSE-very interesting; smokiness; a lot of beautiful lemon zest; little woody component; little Oak monster; lilacs; TASTE-tremendous weight; great w/ fish; great complexity; nice vibrant fruit; apple core & drips of honey; nice polish & length; very vibrant & explosive; very baked apple; extreme length; classic food wine; vibrant acidity that is well integrated; interesting chalk meets lemon; viscous; honey is a dominant component; some back-end Pineapple; very well made; will last another 3 years, but drinking very well right now; WS-91; GV-90 |
| # 434 Tue, April 1st, 2008 |
Secret Pack Tasting On April Fools Day - Episode #434 | 2005 | LE MUSCLE COTES DE ROUSSILLON | Languedoc-Roussillon | $19.99 | 37691 | 91+ | #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-good; TASTE-big mouthfeel on this wine; great tannins; this is hitting a perfect balance of Old & New World (Double Bubble); great richness & complexity; loaded w/ gorgeous cassis for days; really great black raspberry flavors; beautiful integration of tannins & the fruit; I really enjoy the gorgeous Starbucks mocha latte on the back-end; great length; very interesting w/ some nice secondary flavors (i.e. tar bubbles, venison action); gorgeous dark cherries on the mid-palate; appeases new drinkers, but has enough complexity for Old World fans; can drink now, but can be cellared for 5-7 years and really explode; one of the better wines in a long time; this is exceptional wine; GV-91+ |
| # 434 Tue, April 1st, 2008 |
Secret Pack Tasting On April Fools Day - Episode #434 | 2004 | DOMAINE BERTRAND-BERGE ANCESTRAL | Languedoc-Roussillon | $15.99 | 36853 | 89 | #3; COLOR-very dark; NOSE-heavy Campbell's Tomato soup; second layer of cocoa powder; a beautiful basil component; TASTE-this is charming; this is where I want some cheese; great flavor profile; nice fruit; I really like the plums; really layered; complex yet subtle; a bitter & tannic finish; good food wine; some really wild raspberry on the attack and then gets very funky & complex; some plum and young sour berries; it's got more charisma & is more complex than the last wine; well made; I'm a little worried about the awkward finish; good length; really nice w/ cheese; starting to open up; solid; DS-89; GV-89 |
| # 433 Mon, March 31st, 2008 |
Australian Wines On The Thunder Show, These Should Bring The Thunder! - Episode #433 | 2005 | WATER WHEEL SHIRAZ BENDIGO | Australian Shiraz/Syrah | $13.98 | 36181 | 90 | #2; COLOR-dark; NOSE-great nose; nice cherries & raspberries; strawberries are square dancing on my palate; TASTE-great complexity; awesome upfront fruit; great grape_ape jelly flavors; I feel the alcohol, but it's not hot (like the perfect mixed drink); it's balanced w/ the fruit; great length; beautiful black pepper flavors on the back-end; a duck fat component; great fresh fruit; ridiculous value for $14 bones; an absolute steal; a little chocolate on the back-end; JM-91; GV-90 |
| # 433 Mon, March 31st, 2008 |
Australian Wines On The Thunder Show, These Should Bring The Thunder! - Episode #433 | 2005 | BOARDING PASS SHIRAZ | Australian Shiraz/Syrah | $13.98 | 35544 | 84 | #4; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-a little tight; little plum & hints of raspberries; some charcoal coming through; TASTE-creamy; a little simplistic; reminds me of Yellow Tail reserve; kind of basic; some nice dark flavors, but lacking depth; JM-92; GV-84 |
| # 433 Mon, March 31st, 2008 |
Australian Wines On The Thunder Show, These Should Bring The Thunder! - Episode #433 | 2006 | MITOLO GAM SHIRAZ | Australian Shiraz/Syrah | $36.98 | 36997 | 93 | #1; COLOR-gorgeous dark; NOSE-exploding w/ some citrus components; high quality black cherry soda; melted down black licorice for days; explosive skittle rainbow; TASTE-big boy; balanced; meaty/chewy; this has power; like a classic Marqaux, but with my energy level; like Alex P. Keaton (from "Family Ties") on 6 bottles of JOLT; polished & refined like a Bordeaux, but has an excitement factor; this is what a over-the-top Aussie monster should taste like; gorgeous red fruit juice (pomegranate, strawberry & sour cherry); beautiful, explosive, rich flavors that bring a complexity level that I don't expect from over-the-top Aussie wines; this wine is ripping good; well worth it; JM-95; GV-93 |
| # 433 Mon, March 31st, 2008 |
Australian Wines On The Thunder Show, These Should Bring The Thunder! - Episode #433 | 2006 | GLAETZER ANAPERENNA | Australian Red Meritage | $51.98 | 38615 | 91+ | #3; COLOR-dark; NOSE-a little clove; lots of plums; little vegetal action (cauliflower meets broccoli); little cedar box, leather & venison; kind of tight; TASTE-big boy; good balance; very extracted & rich; viscous; very heavy layered & intense fruit; some nice mint on the mid-palate; black cherries all day; solid; really well made, but not killing me; very good; riding the line of being too over-the-top; a little hot (may settle down w/ some time); JM-94-97; GV-91+ |
| # 431 Thu, March 27th, 2008 |
Random Bag Of Wines From Around The World - Episode #431 | 2006 | TOLOSA CHARDONNAY NO OAK | Other California Chardonnay | $11.98 | 36454 | 87+ | #4; COLOR-nice golden; NOSE-little hints of Leachy & Star fruit; Cantaloupe; very tropical; hints of lemon peel on the finish; TASTE-good crispness & acidity; little Blue stone action on the back end which I like; great vanilla cream on the back end; a little concerned about the heat on the finish; solid; WE-90; GV-87+ |
| # 431 Thu, March 27th, 2008 |
Random Bag Of Wines From Around The World - Episode #431 | 2006 | RUSTENBERG CHARDONNAY | South African Chardonnay | $15.98 | 37178 | 89 | #3; COLOR-Hulk Hogan golden; NOSE-burnt smoked cedar wood; pine needles; tropical pineapple; Oak barrels; TASTE-very pure & high quality fruit; has some romance & polish to it; slightly over-oaked, but I love the Lemon Crème Brule on the finish that will seduce many; solid; very acidic for a wine that has such good creaminess, complexity & weight; has the backbone & structure to be a BIG wine; oak & butter, but it is balanced; still getting the charred cedar on the back-end, but it's rounded out nicely w/ some peaches & lemons; outclasses many $25-$35 Chards that many of you are drinking; WS-90; GV-89 |
| # 431 Thu, March 27th, 2008 |
Random Bag Of Wines From Around The World - Episode #431 | 2006 | EDMEADES ME |