David Beauroy’s Tasting Notes – December 9th Vintages Release

‘Tis the season for warming/comfort red wines and bubbly. Tomorrow’s release is the last one scheduled for 2006. I will be back with more tasting notes in 2007. Take good care and enjoy!



$15-25 RANGE



REDS



Herencia Remondo La Montesa Rioja Crianza 2003, Spain-DO Rioja, +674572, $21.95, p.34

A really tasty mouthful! Clean berry notes with exotic spices in the background on the nose. Dry and balanced with medium body, silky tannins, and long length (the 13.5% alcohol adds some heat too). Terrific value from Rioja!



$25+



REDS



Lindhorst Statement 2003, South Africa – WO Coastal Region, +5108, $27.95, p.28

An interesting and unusual blend of Shiraz (52%), Merlot (44%), and a touch of Cab. Sauvignon (4%). The result is a lush combination of raspberry, Danish butter cookies, and marzipan on the nose. Dry and med-full bodied, with a soft texture and medium length. Superb now!



Katnook Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2003, Australia-Coonawarra, +590471, $29.95, p.26

Katnook Estate has done it again! (I was very keen on their 2001 Merlot that came out in August). This Cab. Sauv. is well structured and delicious with an irresistible mix of blackberries, cedar, and spice. Truly a classic Coonawarra Cab.!



Domaine de la Solitude Châteauneuf-Du-Pape 2004, France-AC CdP, +984419, $37.95, p.30

Bold flavours of currants and black cherries make up this very complex and meaty wine. A little closed on the nose with some fruit and subtle dabs of lavender present. Dry with a smooth texture, good balancing acidity, med-full-bodied, good length and a good dose of alcohol (14.5%)! Good value!



Jean-Claude Boisset Gevrey-Chambertin 2002, France-AC Burgundy, +6916, $51.95, p.29

2002 was a fabulous vintage in Burgundy and this wine is good evidence of that. Clear scents of cherry, strawberry, beetroot, some earthiness and spices. On the palate it’s dry, medium-bodied with good complexity and length.



Charles Allexant Premier Cru Beaune Bressandes 2003, France-AC Burgundy, +6783, $56.95, p.29

Inky with juicy cherry and raspberry, and hints of vanilla and freshly turned earth folded in. Dry and soft with very pleasant strawberry jam notes on the palate, med-full bodied, beautifully balanced, and long length. A great match for game!





Champagne, Sparkling



Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve Champagne, France-AC Champagne, +653634, $54.95, p.8

A fabulous non-vintage Champagne! Nice notes of toast, coffee, and nuts. Crisp and clean with a rich and full-bodied taste. Outstanding Value!



Taittinger Brut Millésimé Champagne 1999, France-AC Champagne, +989905, $69.95, p.7

Looking for some Vintage Champagne? 1999 was a very good year in the region. This one is complex and delicious! Notes of brioche, butter, nuts, pears and apples. It is medium to full-bodied, with a long finish.



Nino Franco Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Brut, Italy-DOC Prosecco, +349662, $16.95, p. 12 (375ml bottle, +738161, $10.95)

Start your evening with this splendid Prosecco! Elegantly balanced notes of pears, limes and spring flowers! A perfect aperitif!



Gloria Ferrer Blanc De Blancs Sparkling Wine 2003, USA-California, +914648, $26.95, p.13

Fantastic value! Full of tasty citrus, floral, biscuity and yeasty notes. Thick and creamy mousse with a silky texture. Very well balanced and refreshing. Simply wonderful!



Dessert Wine



Ruffino Serelle Vin Santo Del Chianti 2000, Italy-DOC Tuscany, +1008, $18.95, p.21

Attractive pale amber hue with layers of honey, almonds and caramel on the nose. Classic Vin Santo, medium sweet wit lively acidity to balance it out. Ready to drink with Tiramisù or dunked biscotti.