Gran Vin du Domaine L’Ostal Cazes 2012

On the nose black cherries, liquorice and black pepper, which gives a slightly prickly sensation. In the moth well balanced and consistent with the nose. Fairly long finish, but lighter than expected, with an earthy character.

This wine is produced under the Minervois La Livinière red wine appellation by the Domaine L’Ostal Cazes. Continue reading “Gran Vin du Domaine L’Ostal Cazes 2012”

Campo Vijeo Gran Reserva 2011

On the nose some wizened fruit, toffee and a light mocha character. In the mouth balanced, but only moderately structured, with a finish and aftertaste dominated by dark chocolate. The oak is not as overpowering as in other Gran Reserva. Overall, the wine is not very sophisticated, but drinks nicely.  Continue reading “Campo Vijeo Gran Reserva 2011”

Muga Seleccíon Especial 2011

Although they are very subtle, the milky nuances typical of Rioja wines are the first aroma I detect on the nose. The fruit is a bit lacking, with burnt notes, hints of spices and licorice (another trademark of Tempranillo based wines) coming forward.

Once in the mouth the wine pleases you from the first sip. Tasty and fresh, with an agreeable mouthfeel, thanks to well integrated tannins.  Continue reading “Muga Seleccíon Especial 2011”

Viña Ardanza 2009

On the nose a spicy and earthy character dominates: mushroom, tobacco, nutmeg, mocha and chocolate. From the background, hints of cherries and stewed plums come forward. In the mouth smooth and well balanced, with elegant tannins and a good acidity. The wine is tasty and leaves you with a fairly long aftertaste. Continue reading “Viña Ardanza 2009”

CVNE Selección de Fincas Graciano 2016

The wine displays an intense prune colour. On the nose a pleasant perfume, strongly influenced by blueberry scent. In the mouth velvety, with medium acidity, moderate tannins and a pleasant fruity finish that last for a fair aftertaste.

Graciano is a difficult to cultivate and low yielding grape. Continue reading “CVNE Selección de Fincas Graciano 2016”

Domaine Paterianakis 2014

On the nose at first meaty, but after a while some cherries and menthol notes come forward. In the mouth smooth and well balanced. The finish leans toward dry fruits. The aftertaste is pleasant, although it doesn’t last very long.

This red wine that matures for one year in French oak is produced under the Peza denomination. Continue reading “Domaine Paterianakis 2014”

Opus One 1989

Despite its 29 years, this bottle is still very lively, starting from the brilliant color. At first the nose is boisé, with some plum. After it gets some air, chocolate and a richer variety of fruits come out. The finish is tasty, although at first a bit rough and dry. Given the age, the aftertaste is still fairly long. Continue reading “Opus One 1989”

Chateau Figeac 1982

On the nose boisé and earthy. It reminds of antique furniture and clay pot. In the mouth it still displays a good acidity, solid tannins and a decent aftertaste. Unfortunately, the overall sensory experience can be defined as fascinating and intriguing, but not really as pleasant. Neither in the bouquet nor in the savour.  Continue reading “Chateau Figeac 1982”

Cantina Terlan Lagrein 2016

On the nose, vinous with plum and sour cherry flavours. In the mouth, lean, acidic and slightly astringent, with a drying, sour finish. Not much aftertaste.

Lagrein is an ancient grape variety that is most probably native to Alto Adige, the northernmost wine producing region of Italy. It can deliver full bodied wines with a deep and dense color.  Continue reading “Cantina Terlan Lagrein 2016”