BRANCAIA ILATRAIA #1; NOSE-really profound, has ORANGE PEEL (GV loves that - very unique), very aromatic & exotic; orange crème Brulee; TASTE-nice wine, very NEW WORLD, a little HOT, big bodied, silky, WS-96; GV-93
CLOS DU BOIS MARLSTONE RED #3; VaynerPAZZZ; NOSE-big, dark fruit, black licorice, liquer aspect, VERY attractive, hint of vanilla, sugar covered blueberries, TASTE-medium to full bodied, nice flavors, Hershey chocolate, but there are SKIPS (roller coaster), , GV-87
EL NIDO CLIO NOSE-huge cherry, raspberry, tobacco; TASTE-new world fruit, dried apricot, fruit bomb, great mid-palate, long finish, Asian spice, very well structured, complex, MASSIVE WINE, you NEED TO SEEK THIS OUT, RP-96, GV-94/95
SANGUINE HEATHCOTE SHIRAZ #4; VaynerPAZZZ (based on QPR); COLOR-dark; NOSE-big purple, grape nose; TASTE-very plummy, very lush, very big, massive flavors, grape like icicle pop, a little fake, over-oaked, extremely silky, hostess blueberry pie filling, a little dull, ST-91; GV-90
CAYMUS SPECIAL SELECT CAB SAUV #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-much more herbaceous, broccoli, asparagus, hint of bell pepper, hint of sesame/sunflower seeds; TASTE-dark, big, REAL dry, WOW, dark cherry, really luscious, very smooth, big body, more structure, mouth-feel & complexity than Mondavi; REALLY IMPRESSIVE, a little heat due to its' youth, ABSOLUTE winner; RP-91/93; GV-95
ROBERT MONDAVI RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON #2; COLOR-dark; NOSE-crushes Opus & Insignia, EXTREMELY attractive; exotic green pepper mixed w/cherry, cassis & tannins; french vanilla Oak, hint of plum & grape soda; TASTE-very dry, big tannins, monster wine, much more structured than Opus & Insig, monumental upset, I REALLY like this wine, extremely structured, heavy tannins, really dark fruit, solid taste of chocolate on the finish, this wine will explode in the next 5-7 years (bitter tannins on finish will go away), a PROFOUND effort, RP-95; GV-94
JOSEPH PHELPS INSIGNIA #3; VaynerPAZZZ (on QPR); NOSE-very attractive, good dark licorice, black currant, big, luscious; TASTE-these are VERY young, has similar issues to Opus1, ;but is more lush & better mouth-feel, very smooth on the mid-palate, but too dry and off-centered on the finish, black cherry, raspberry, cassis, hint of vanilla & oak; nice, but not astonishing, RP-91; WS-90; GV-90
OPUS ONE #4; VaynerPAZZZ; NOSE-pretty good, classic Oaky, black currant & cherry; TASTE-extremely bitter finish, SHOCKED, bad year, flavors are austere, very green (huge plants thrown in the mix); RP-91; GV-87
VINOCE MT VEEDER RED #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-big, black currant, black cherry, exotic mint aspect as well ; TASTE-a MONSTER, very full bodied & luscious, TONS of flavor, coats your entire palate, extremely elegant, hicory wood & cherries on the finish, very new world, absolutely AWESOME, but EXTREMELY young (heavy alcohol & tannins), put away for 4-6 years for sure; GV-92/94
HOBBS SHIRAZ #1; TASTE-extremely concentrated flavors of: dark chocolate, cassis, blackberry, blueberry pie, mocha; massive flavors, really huge mouth-feel, hits back palate with coffee/candy aspect, sour strawberry, this is MASSIVE Shiraz, extraordinarily long finish, (slightly below "La Cueva Del Contador"), one of the BEST Shiraz's, a MONSTROUS effort; WS-96, RP-97; GV-96
NURIOOTPA BAROSSA CLASS SHIRAZ #4; NOSE-obvious plum, vanilla extract, romantic TASTE-really tight dark tannins, lush on palate, smoother than the Clarke, better body weight, but a little hollow on the finish, very flavorful like a rainbow, RP-92; GV-90
ST CLEMENT OROPPAS CABERNET SAUVIGNON #1; COLOR-enormous; NOSE-nice, dry apricot, cherries, black currant, tropical, strawberry Laffy Taffy, TASTE-coffee, black currant, elegance, smooth finish, pure silk, not too New World; Great QPR (as good as Opus, Insignia, Dominus, but for $34); RP-91; WS-84; GV-92+
CHAT MUSAR CUVEE WHITE #4; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-golden; NOSE-pickle & petrol salad; TASTE-VaynerCHUKLE, very light, like water mixed w/ petrol, GV-83
BOOLAROO SHIRAZ #4; VaynerPASS; NOSE-explosive, very NEW world, exotic black currant, blueberry, candied, HUGE nose; TASTE-too fake for me, muted fruit, all globs together; WS-90; GV-85
NEWTON UNFILTERED CHARDONNAY #2a; COLOR-nice golden; NOSE-melon, more citrus, papaya, mango; TASTE-nice mouth-feel, very elegant & complete, well made, but flavor profile not that amazing; RP-95; GV-91
WALTER HANSEL PINOT NOIR NORTH SLOPE #1; NOSE-musty, green earthiness, moldy, moss, little floral, cherry, charcoal; TASTE-very acidic & tannic, tight, not much fruit, a little sour cherry, little heat, surprising, subtle dark fruit, cherry violet, RP-90; GV-90
PHILIP TOGNI CABERNET SAUVIGNON #1(Red); NOSE-interesting combo of chocolate covered cherries w/ hint of green pepper; TASTE-this is what Cali Cabs are all about, not too over-the-top, not like Syrah, Pure Cab; very rich, very extracted, black cherry, chocolate aspect, hint of greenness, polished, structured mid-palate, firm grip on your palate, long finish, elegant, pure silk, what else could you want; RP-95; GV-95
CASA MARIN PINOT NOIR LITORAL #2(Red); NOSE-lizard skin, very terroir, chalky, golden mustard; TASTE-very spicy mouth-feel, gamey, ham & cheese sandwich w/ Tabasco, cherry on the finish, young, very different style, well-made, bacon, very interesting, tremendous structure, last 10-12 years; WS-88; GV-93
ERNST LANG GRUNER VELTLINER #4(White); NOSE-hint of honeysuckle, burnt wood, lemon peel; TASTE-very dry, crisp, long finish, high alcohol, clean, a little one-dimensional; GV-85
TORBRECK THE FACTOR RED #1; NOSE-candied licorice, liqueur aspect, very intense, very big; TASTE-Wow !, So massive, huge luscious blackberry, black currant, raisins, huge wine, taking over entire palate, very well structured, great character, real long finish, pure silk, HUGE wine, needs to be cellared (another 7-15 years), a VALUE @ $80, as good as it gets; black pepper, apricot on finish; RP-96; GV-95
LA CUEVA DEL CONTADOR #1; NOSE-pure heaven, candied flavor, strawberry, black currant, so rich; TASTE-very dry, huge sour cherry on finish, I adore, sweet & sour, huge structure & backbone, finishes w/ awesome sour cherry, black currant popping all over; this wine is made for me, last for 20 yrs; RP-92; GV-97
CHAT HAUT GARDERE #2; NOSE-worth $25 alone, dirty rocks w/fruit salad, opens up so quick (like time-lapse photography), so aromatic, blend of lilac meeting plum & mango, seductive; TASTE-like going "Back to the Future" in the 90's when great Bordeaux was affordable; new world Bordeaux, mouth flavor is polished, silky smooth & delicious, 93-94 pts in 5-7 yrs., AWESOME, Absolute Steal; WS-91; GV-92+
MAHONEY LAS BRISAS PINOT NOIR #5; VaynerPASS; COLOR-dark Pinot; NOSE-classic Pinot, burnt tire, dark cherry; TASTE-big, big PN, really rich, completely coats palate, a little oak, a little more alcohol than last time; tannins are very obvious & a little hot; cellar for 7-10 years, little disappointing; GV-88
PIEVE DEL VESCOVO PIOVANO #2; NOSE-dark nose, cherry, earthy, cow manure, grated cheese; TASTE-really nice firm acidity on mid-palate, really dark hint of mocha on finish, lively fruit, some acidity, not completely silky smooth, but I really like it; TREMENDOUS PIZZA WINE; classic Italian; GV-88+
EL NIDO #2; NOSE-crazy, strawberry cupcake; TASTE-monstrous NEW WORLD wine, sugar, syrup, huge mouth coating, not as structured as CLIO, but a fruit bomb, ton of complexity, a little one-dimensional, but the dimension is delicious; " I like Clio better+ (1/3 the price); RP-97; GV-95+
GOUGES NUITS ST GEORGE CLOS PORRETS #3; COLOR-dark; NOSE-creamy, eggs suny side up, black licorice; TASTE-by far the youngest, tight, dry, cedar, tobacco, smoked ham on the finish; solid, WA(Pierre Rovani)-90/92, GV-89
VINCENT GIRARDIN VOLNAY SANTENOTS #4; VaynerPASS; Nose-great, great nose, earthy, mint, Taste-a little dirty, off balance, not much flavor, mini-cherries, green asparagus, acidic, off-balance WS-91; GV-87
NEO DANIEL #1; COLOR-very dark; NOSE-new world, obvious Hi-C fruit puch, dark black currant, very jammy; TASTE-extremely big, tight, closed, monster of a wine; complex new world wine meets old world; like a top notch Bordeaux; big luscious new world fruit, but not one dimensional, enormous structure on mid-palate, phenomanl finish, well-balanced; I would wait 5 years, but be a dominant wine worth $100 ; RP-93; GV-93
TAYLOR FLADGATE VINTAGE PORT #3; NOSE-like Ware's, more cherry, but also chocolate; TASTE-extemely good, love it, but doesn't have the extra sparkle that the Warre's is showing; WA(Pierre Rovani)-98, V-93
WARRE'S VINTAGE PORT #1; NOSE-very different, like new world Syrah, dark cherry, strawberry, jammy, not as much chocolate; TASTE-very complex, much more wine weight, more complex refined finish, long finish, (tastes cheese), WORLD CLASS, don't drink now, in 20 years you will be laughing at what you paid, great investment; WA(Pierre Rovani)-93, GV-95
GUIGAL COTES DU RHONE RED VaynerPASS; NOSE-like Mr. Clean, minty green, fresh cut grass, awkward; TASTE-"fake wine"; it's smooth & silky, nice mouth feel, not to be confused w/ high quality wine, solid for $9, but not very complex or rich; RP-88, GV-86
NOTRE DAME DE COUSIGNAC COTES DU RHONE HOMMAGE LEON POMMIER #2; NOSE-amazing, red licorice, purple jam, strawberry; TASTE-espresso bean on mid-palate, finishing tight, strong tannins, big mouth feel, black currant, leather, Very complex, SHOCKED, EXTREMELY DRY, very SERIOUS effort, REAL WINNER, $25 bottle for $10;RP-89/90, GV-90
SEGHESIO OLD VINE ZINFANDEL VAYNERCLANK(3); COLOR-purple, black, massive; NOSE-big, cherry/strawberry, red fruit; TASTE-I do not like it, SHOCKED, really off-balance; too dry for most people, bitter tannins, PASS
FRANCOIS JOBARD MEURSAULT CHARMES VaynerPASS(based on QPR); NOSE-really charismatic pinapple, oak, butter; TASTE-brings the thunder, very complete, complex fruit, chalky mixed w/ butter & oak; very good bottle, but one dimensional for price; WA-90/92, GV-90/91
CORTE RIVA MERLOT COLOR-immense deep black Shiraz-like color; NOSE-candied, starburst/skittles, oak, lot of fruit; TASTE-this wine is LOADED w/: blackerry jam, strawberry sorbet in mid-palate, tons of lingering boysenberry and fruit flavors; 80 lbs. OF FLAVOR in a 3 lb BAG; "CONVINCED that this is THE PREMIER Merlot from California", "kicks SERIOUS ASS", "WAY BETTER than some Cali $200 cult wines"; UNBELIEVABLE, silk throughout; RP-92, GV-96
RIDGE INDEPENDENCE SCHOOL ZINFANDEL 15.4% alcohol, BIG boy, COLOR-pitch black; NOSE-jammy, black currant, rich, blueberry, clove, mint; TASTE-if you want new world flavor w/ power & complexity--this is the wine, huge blue & black fruit, Asian spice, tobacco, tabasco on the finish "one of the finest $25 bottlles of California wine I've tasted in a long time". GV-92
CHATEAU LEOVILLE LAS CASES COLOR-great, NOSE-huge, black cherry & blackberries on an open fire; TASTE-amazing Asian spice mid-palate, finish is flying, complex, rich; EVERYTHING YOU WANT IN A WINE (tons of fruit, but complex) BALANCE. Last for 25-40 years AWESOME, PERFECT young Bordeaux; WS-97, RP-93, GV-96+
VINA ALMAVIVA COLOR-obnoxiously great pitch black, NOSE-huge aromatic, new world; TASTE-BIG WINE, tannins, thick, viscous, massive, new world fruit (dark cherry, blackberry, black currant), but Bordeaux structure. REALLY IMPRESSED, WS-95, GV-93
LANGMEIL FREEDOM SHIRAZ some vines from 1840's @ Langmeil; COLOR-black purple; NOSE-rose pedal, plum, prunes; TASTE-crazy young, EXPLOSIVE, POWER HOUSE, need help drinking, long finish, WORLD CLASS new world wine, great w/steak, RP-92/94, GV-92+
CASTANO HECULA NOSE-great, Cedar, Polaner strawberry jam, TASTE-wow, very impressed, EXCEPTIONAL, Asian spice, bell & green pepper, SPECTACULAR JUICE, ABSOLUTE STEAL; RP-90
CROFT PORT INCREDIBLE wine, outlast grandchildren; very complex; 2003 is excellent Port Vintage; WS-96
BOVARD EPESSE TERRE A BOIRE Lake Geneva; NOSE-honey w/ lemon peel, pineapple; TASTE-crisp, great mid-palate, long finish, spritzy, great structure, great w/ lobster, STEAL @$15, GV-90 @$20; Bordeaux or Burgundy glass
PALMER RESERVE CHARDONNAY Long Island, COLOR-very nice; NOSE-oak, fruit, pineapple; TASTE-apricot, crisp, long finish, toasted oak, GV-87/89
PESSAGNO IDYLL TIMES ZINFANDEL NOSE-incredible, tropical fruit, tangerine, black cherry; TASTE-AWESOME, jammy, chewy, plum, coats the palate, flavors all around, long finish, little pepper, spice, fruit w/ Tabasco sauce, WINNER, GV-91
MELKA CJ CABERNET SAUVIGNON Philippe Melka #2: like a $75-100 Napa Cab, double QPR, serious flavor & structure
RAYMOND RESERVE CHARDONNAY COLOR-great golden, TASTE-creamy, oaky, but not too oaky, great finish, nice wine
ALONSO DEL YERRO MARIA COLOR-pitch black; NOSE-purple, gushing, explosive; TASTE-a joke that it's under $100, REMARKABLE wine; RP-94
EMILIO MORO RIBERA DEL DUERO COLOR-ridiculous; NOSE-classic chocolate, black currant; TASTE-blueberry jam, really tight firm finish, fruit very obvious and explosive, silky smooth 1 minute finish, GREAT VALUE; WS-92
MEEKER FROZIN ZINFANDEL Like an ICE wine, but done in the winery, great w/chocolate, MARTINI (1:1 ratio), over berries, delicious
GIRARD PETITE SYRAH COLOR-pitch black, purple; NOSE-amazing, exotic: vanilla, caramel, red & black fruit; TASTE-Holy Cow, extremely rich & complex, TONS of fruit flavors, obvious coffee, cherries, mocha; SENSATIONAL, WS-90, GV-91-92
TRENTADUE SONOMA CABERNET SAUVIGNON #3 - COLOR-purple red; NOSE-orange marmalade, exotic, tropical skittles; TASTE-really coats your palate, really rich, nice fruit, really well made; long finish, serious wine; AWESOME; GV-90/91
STEPHAN RIDGE CABERNET SAUVIGNON #1 - COLOR-pitch black; NOSE-MASSIVE; TASTE-BIG, but a little tight, rich, vanilla, long finish, NEEDs 2-3 years; WL-90/91
KANGARILLA ROAD SHIRAZ NOSE-cotton candy meets Big League chew, TASTE-very well made; dry, complete finish, vanilla; EXCELLENT; (all 3 are FAR superior to YELLOW TAIL)
CAVES DE COLOMBE CHATEAUNEUF DU PAPE RED COLOR-Classic ruby, grenache; NOSE-strawberry; TASTE-45 second finish, great mid-palate; SPECTACULAR; Classic CDP; GV-93
TREFETHEN RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON #2; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-really nice black fruit, blackberry, blueberry pie, really nice, little tight, not explosive; TASTE-nice wine, good complexity & structure, but finish is green, bitter & acidic; mid-palate is a little flabby; CG-92; GV-89
CHATEAU ROUMIEU LACOSTE SAUTERNES #1; NOSE-very smokey, obvious burnt oak, honey, lemon peel; TASTE-very smooth, tannins & acidity are very light, nice golden color, nice golden apple flavor, a little heat, hint of pear on the finish, GREAT w/cheese; WS-89; GV-90
BERINGER NAPA CABERNET SAUVIGNON #6(Red); VaynerPASS; COLOR-solid, medium to dark; NOSE-textbook Cali Cab; oak, black currant, TASTE-dry, well-made, oak, fruit, interesting plum, but not great for $27, RP-88; GV-87
VERITE LA MUSE RED MERITAGE #3 - COLOR-great; NOSE-remarkable; TASTE-AWESOME, balanced, structured, RP-94, GV-93
CASTELLO DELLA PANERETTA CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA COLOR-completely pitch black; NOSE-amazing Tuscan nose, amazing Sangiovese fruit, mint; TASTE-Heaven for any Tuscan fan, dry cherry, complete fruit, mid-palate complete, long SILKY finish, BLOWN AWAY; good with any Meat, Be sure to let it breath, GV-91/92
DELECTUS STANTON CABERNET SAUVIGNON COLOR-really dark; NOSE-beautiful, floral, strawberries & cream, tobacco TASTE-powerful burst of flavor, cherry, strawberry, black currant, great mid-palate, chocolate on the finish, POWERFUL STUFFED bottle, REALLY ENJOYED; SENSATIONAL, BLOWN AWAY, WS-91, GV-92
ARTAZU NAVARRA SANTA CRUZ Compared to 2002 vintage: '01: RP-92, ST-91, GV-90/91 '01 is Nice, but the '02 (sold out) is better--much more drinkable
RUDERA CABERNET SAUVIGNON #1, COLOR-dark; NOSE-wild, vegetables; TASTE-black currant, pomegranate, garden, spicy VOLUPTUOUS, like a V8; WS-91, GV-92
JACOB FRANKLIN HOFFMAN LANE CABERNET SAUVIGNON Serious Juice; TASTE-Bordeaux-like, structured, clove, mint, espresso, chocolate, black current, blueberry, explosive on the palate, loaded, awesome complex finish; I adore this wine; HOME RUN; GV-95
CERBAIA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO #1, COLOR-great; NOSE-smokey, hickory, fruits; TASTE-great, really smooth, firm tannins, dry cherry fruit, hint of black current, extremely good bottle, underrated, WS-92, GV-93
EAGLEPOINT RANCH SYRAH "Maybe my favorite wine in the store for $15." NOSE-black currant, oak, tobacco TASTE- awesome, complex, excellent mid-palate: pepper, clove
CIGARRAL PAGO DEL AMA "One of the GREAT wines that you've never heard of" NOSE-unbelievable, deep cherry, dark fruits; TASTE-combination of power, silk, finish going on and on, UNBELIEVABLE, easily worth $150; WORLD CLASS WINE, "maybe the BEST wine ever recommended on WLTV". GV-94/95+
BUONCRISTIANI NAPA CLARET NOSE- black licorice, over the top fruit nose; TASTE-tons of complexity, reminds me of $50-$60 Cali meritages for half the price, reminds me of a imaginary blend of St. Clement aropis & CDP, will last 5-10 years, probably needs year of cellaring, COMPLETELY BLOWN AWAY, EXCEPTIONAL.GV-91/92
VERITE LE DESIR VAYNERGLUG; #2 - Best for future. COLOR-Tremendous; TASTE-tough to spit silk, RP-95
VERITE LA JOIE RED MERITAGE #1 - Best for now. COLOR (C)-Awesome; NOSE(N)-rich; TASTE(T)-amazing grip on mid-palate, long finish, RP-96, GV-higher
MONCHHOF URZINGER WURZGARTEN AUSLESE #2a; lively zesty, dessert wine; NOSE-spritzy, Sauv Blanc (kiwi, melon), metallic, bluestone, TASTE-loaded w/ sugar, but very zesty, greatest bottle of Sprite ever, but wine; fresh, fruity, goes great w/ food, integrates well, phenomenal, WS-92; GV-91
PUMARI CHARDONNAY #1; NOSE-lemon, honeysuckle, subtle butter & oak, apple; TASTE-great acidity, very complex, really nice apple & pear, little buttered popcorn on the palate, really smooth on the finish, big body, well structured, buttered apple, solid for $10; WL-89; GV-89
PIEVE DEL VESCOVO LUCCIAIO #3; COLOR-very dark; NOSE-Wow!, combination dirty feet being cleaned by soap; intriguing, but not appealing; TASTE-polished flavor of plum meeting tobacco is so unique & interesting; extremely dry (45% of people should not buy), but enormously silky, polished bottle; I adore, huge mouth-feel, obnoxiously flexible w/ food, long term has major potential to be more special (last 5-7 years); WS-90; GV-90
KATHRYN HALL SACRASHE VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON #3; VaynerPASS; Nose-tight, fresh, floral, lilacs & violets;Taste-herbacious green pepper hits the palate initially, serious tanins on mid-palate through the finish, really lush, but a major PASS; WE-93; GV-88
DOMAINE BARAT CHABLIS FOURNEAUX VaynerPASS; NOSE-mushroom soup, seashell; TASTE-nice balance and complexity, BUT mid-palate, transition & finsh come off a little one dimension, not inspired; AM-90; GV-87
CALERA PINOT NOIR REED COLOR-lighter, classic pinot; NOSE-stinky, dirt, socks; TASTE-more traditional, green pepper, clove, soil, tremendous mid-palate, tabasco sauce, vegetable (like V8, but w/ grapes); WE-92, GV-89-92 (a little awkward now, but should blow over and integrate better & be a 92)
CANONICA A CERRETO CHIANTI CLASSICO NOSE-asparagus, black currant, tree bark; TASTE-smooth, complete, hint of cinnamon, GREAT, WINNER, "not tasting merlot-100% delicious Sangiovese (tannic, but complete, firm, well made--like an athlete)" GV-89/90
CHARLES CREEK MERLOT MIRADERO NOSE-chocolate covered cherry; TASTE-integrated tannins, not over the top fruiit, more Bordeaux-like; drink w/ foods; BLOWN AWAY, hint of cedar, long finish; wait to buy-lower price should be coming; CG-91, GV91
RENARD TRES NINOS COLOR-Pitch Black; NOSE-new world fruit, loaded, skittles, ripe cherries, black jam; TASTE-tons of fruit, EXPLOSIVE, LOADED, rivals the "Match Cabernet", AMAZING, long finish, RP-91, GV-94
WARWICK THREE CAPE LADIES RED #2, COLOR-great; NOSE-Candied apple; TASTE-very nice, lush flavor, long finish HIGHLY RECOMMEND ST-89, GV-91+
BRAUT & SISTRA SONOMA CABERNET SAUVIGNON COLOR-great; NOSE-great, black current, cedar, fruit; TASTE-medium to full body, coats palate, dessert, so much fruit but dry, black current, cherry, finish has black olive WINNER, GV-91
MORICHETTI MALBEC NOSE-totally different, earthy, burgundian, STUNNING, wasabi; TASTE-wet rock, earth tones w. fruit, INTERESTING, RECOMMEND, Old world and New world, good w/ food.
CHATEAU VALROSE CUVEE ALIENOR COLOR-very dark; NOSE- great floral, coffee; TASTE-tight tannins, oak w/ cherry, cassis, a little dry, DEFINITELY SEEK OUT; WS-88, GV-90
ALTO MONCAYO NOSE-interesting, awkward, mint, TASTE-mouth feel is incredible, really silky, explosive, bright, exotic fruits, apricot, Asian spice; oak, strawberries, very COMPLEX, will open up to be a MONSTER; RP-93, GV-91/92
HAVENS BLACK & BLUE TASTE-INCREDIBLE, fruit, complexity, BOMB on the palate, ripe black fruit flavors, loaded, BIG BOY, $75 value GV-93
MAZZEI SERRATA DI BELGUARDO COLOR-pitch black, NOSE-huge bouquet, lively fruit, TASTE-nice acidity, long finish, GREAT, a STEAL, RECOMMEND more than any other WLTV wine, WS-90
GRAVITY HILLS TUMBLING TRACTOR ZINFANDEL #1; 13.6% alcohol; NOSE-classic Zin, tight (young), but SPECTACULAR, pepper, late harvest raspberry jam, TASTE-absolute STEAL, massive, juicy, but structured (like Ridge @ $24), black cherry, chocolate, SCREAMING value, QPR heaven; RP-88/90; GV-91
BOUISSIERE VACQUEYRAS LE PONCHE VIEILLES VIGNES #3; NOSE-big big strawberry nose, black & whit pepper, cotton candy, heavy alcohol though heavy; TASTE-great flavor profile and nice body feel, but alcohol is shooting high, complex, little clove, alcohol is a little high, but should integrate w/ age, buy a case and put away; JR-91/93; GV-90
JOHN DUVAL PLEXUS #3; NOSE-obvious black licorice, white pepper; TASTE-a little fake, but extremely smooth, huge flavors of coffee & mocha, delicious and smooth, RP-93; GV-91
FIRST DROP MOTHER'S MILK #2; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-big, dark; NOSE-lot of licorice & raspberry, hint of strawberry; TASTE-viscous, awkward hint of acidity, well structured, but off balance on the flavor, close, but not intriguing, JR-89; GV-87+
CARTLIDGE & BROWN RABID RED #3; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-very nice; NOSE-disappointing, not much going on; TASTE-nice body weight, full flavor, little black currant & cigar smoke, silky finish, but not great flavor profile, RP-88; GV-85
EVESHAM WOOD SEVEN SPRINGS PINOT NOIR #1; NOSE-extremely complex, terroir driven, earth, worm head, rocks, mud, but a coating of Strawberry on top; TASTE-big wine, WOW, really herbaceous, really complex body, licorice aspect, mint, bark, pine cone, very elegant, MASSIVE mouth-feel, minty/ eucalyptus /licorice flavor in back of my mouth is very exotic, very unique; AM-91; GV-92
KING ESTATE PINOT NOIR #2; COLOR-nice strawberry color; NOSE-not much; TASTE-nice, VERY luscious & smooth, real nice body, heavy strawberry meets pepper in the back ally, great body weight, finishes strong, little bit of SweetTart taste, SHOCKING; GV-91
CUVAISON PINOT NOIR #3; VaynerPAZZZ (on QPR); NOSE-really nice, strawberry, cherry, burnt wood; TASTE-nice balance & complexity, obvious dark purple plum, dust flavor on palate, very dry, very nice, Solid; W&S-90; GV-89
YANGARRA CADENZIA #2; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-dark; NOSE-very tight, chalky, milky, hint of cedar, black cherry, pomegranate; TASTE-plums and strawberries, luscious, but a little FAKE, nice licorice, WS-93; GV-89
LAS ROCAS GARNACHA #2; NOSE-dirty, off-centered, hint of black cherry & strawberry; TASTE-exceptionally blended into mouth-feel (structure and flavor), lot of strawberry, black pepper, hint of white truffle (that alone worth $7), very well made, JR-90; GV-89+
CAYMUS NAPA CABERNET SAUVIGNON #1; NOSE-sweet oak, black cherry, blackberry, chocolate, mocha; TASTE-black currant, big tannin structure, very dark, luscious, long finish, blackberry; this ROCKS!; RP-91/93; GV-93
ROBERT YOUNG ALEXANDER VALLEY CHARDONNAY #1; COLOR-golden; NOSE-fig, apple, pear; TASTE-nice, very elegant, silky, nice mouth feel, nice long finish, oak, another big boy, smoother & silkier then Ramey, very well-made; GV-91+
RAMEY HUDSON CHARDONNAY #2b; COLOR-huge golden; TASTE-alcohol, big boy, buttery, butterscotch, melon, nice long finish, MASSIVE wine, caramel, heavy on butter, very solid, but QPR??, GV-90
TALLULAH SYRAH SONOMA #3(Red); COLOR-dark purple, Crazy; NOSE-tight, orange peel, black currant, red cassis; TASTE-way too young, difficult to score, HUUUUUUUUUUUUUGE Monster, WOW, very thick, huge mouth-feel, black cherry, black currant, black berry; nice flavors, cellar for at least 10 years RP-90; GV-91 (on potential)
ENO ZINFANDEL THE PATRIARCH #4(Red); NOSE-cream de cassis liqueur, TASTE-big, Big wine, great w/ a turkey, hint of white chocolate, black pepper, Asian spice, big mouth feel, Massive wine, way to young (decant 8 hours); luscious, lively, extremely well-made & complex, lively; GV-90
CATENA MALBEC #5(Red); VaynerPASS; COLOR-real nice, dark purple; NOSE-very tight, dirt, hint of dark cherry; TASTE-lively mouth-feel initially, but falls off quickly; alcohol is high, bitter, black licorice, candied strawberries, hot finish; WS-90; GV-86
CAVES DE VOUVRAY LA CRAIE "#3(White); NOSE-goosenberry, hints of grass mixed w/ a little honey as well; TASTE-limestone on the finish, a little off balance & too acidic on the finish, solid, nose better than the body, nice long finish, crisp, clean, slightly overpriced ; GV-85
VITAE CHIANTI COLLI SENESI #4; COLOR-dark; NOSE-ripe cherry, explosive, hints of black pepper; TASTE-killer wine, really like, so much cherry, little bitterness, but very smooth, slightly vegetal tones on the finish, fruit wine, absolute steal; GV-89
ROCKY CREEK ZINFANDEL #1; NOSE-good nose, black pepper, dark licorice, purple fruit; TASTE-dismantles the Rosenblum Zinfandel (Episode #105), really good wine, really smooth & rich, coats palate, complex, up-front fruit, drink now, REALLY IMPRESSED, polished, silky well-made, GREAT FOOTBALL WINE; GV-89/90
MANO A MANO #3; VaynerPASS; COLOR-great, purple, black; NOSE-really Oaky: TASTE-very simple, one-dimensional, very average, RP overrated this one; RP-88; GV-84
CASA MARIN SAUVIGNON BLANC LAUREL #1; COLOR-crazy golden; NOSE-jalapeno pepper, asparagus, surrounded by honey; TASTE-wow, a shocking shot of sugar, then gets very complex, creamy, butter, jalapeno, long finish, great acidity; "one of the most intriguing, complex, well-produced Sauv. Blancs I've ever had"; "this may be the singular best white wine I've ever had from South America" WE-93; GV-95
GRAND VENEUR COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES LES CHAMPAUVINS #1; NOSE-huge Strawberry, complex; TASTE-baby CDP, very complex & rich, terroir driven fruit, cherries, strawberries w/ leather, REALLY HIGH on this, ABSOLUTE BUY; a $30 bottle of wine; RP-90, GV-91+
RAZON VALSACRO COLOR-big, big; NOSE-big, cherry, little Kirsch, dark chocolate; TASTE-Wow, wild & gamey, venison w/cherries ("hit a deer on the road...let it fall down....throw a bunch of cherries on it...take out your knife that you always have on you....cut the deer....bite it....that's the flavor profile"), dry sour cherry on finish, I LIKE THIS WINE A LOT; VERY SERIOUS & COMPLEX for $9, bottle; PAIRED w/ ZAMARONO CHEESE (great combo); GV-90/91
WEGELER ESTATE RIESLING QBA 9% alcohol (light), NOSE-vibrant, spritzy, coming alive; TASTE-residual sugar, hints of Pineapple, I like it. PAIRED w/ GRUYERE (great combo) brings weight to palate; WS-90; GV-89
DROIN CHABLIS LES CLOS #1; NOSE-wow, celery on steroids, lively & exciting, aspargus, broccoli; TASTE-"WOW, as COMPLETE A BOTTLE of white burgandy/chardonnay as I've had in a long time"; not too creamy, amazing hints of pine cone, clove, asparagus w/ tons of butter, put away for 10 yrs.; "Acidy & complexity,structure, mid-palate, finish all integrate like a perfect puzzle"; VERY IMPRESSED; AM-91/94; GV-95
ZIND HUMBRECHT RIESLING GUEBERSCHWIHR COLOR-amazing golden color; NOSE-interesting, pineapple dropped in gasoline & mustard; TASTE-quite dry, hint of sweetness on the finish, real complexity on mouth feel, papaya, edamame soy bean aspect (green beans found @ sushi joints), very tropical (pineapple, papaya, mango), a little pear on the finish; WS-93,GV-90
ALBERT MANN GEWURZTRAMINER NOSE-mix of chlorine & mango; TASTE-great mouth feel, really nice zesty spiceness, clove, mango, oregano; nice honey finish, great body; this is a GOOD bottle of wine; GV-89/90
OLSON OGDEN UNTI SYRAH NOSE-remarkable, tropical, skittles; TASTE-HUGE mouth feel, GREAT syrah, comes off Northern Rhone but then fruit comes through; complex; Great w/ STEAK; HUGE FAN; WS-93, GV-92
BODEGAS ARROCAL COLOR-real dark; NOSE-great, cherry, massive fruit, terroir; TASTE-big fruit: black cherry, black currant, cassis; very INTRIGUING, gets more complex, makes you think like it's a $100 bottle; BIG FAN; RP-90, GV-91
MELVILLE PINOT NOIR ESTATE COLOR-dark; NOSE-nice, asian spice, ripe raspberry, autumn leaves; TASTE-candied, smooth, rich, young, but great finish, candied strawberry, not too New World, firm; GV-90
INNISKILLIN ICE WINE VIDAL NOSE-tighter, lemon peel, clover, TASTE-huge oranges, hint of peach, MANGO, papaya, more acidity, more serious, GV-92/94
CHASSEUR SONOMA COAST PINOT NOIR COLOR-dark for Pinot; NOSE- huge, aromatic, black currant, cherry, strawberry licorice; TASTE-silky smooth, coats the palate, SHOCKING value, New World but not over the top, GREAT Burgundian Structure on mid-palate w/ SILKY FINISH, REAL WINNER; CG-91, GV-92/93
TWENTY ROWS GRAPPLER NOSE-fresh apricot, licorice, red currant; TASTE-firm tannins, huge structure on mid-palate, CELLAR for 6 mos., TREMENDOUS VALUE, GV-90/91
MASSENA 11TH HOUR SHIRAZ COLOR-deep, deep, war paint; NOSE-wow, menthol, fruit salad, cherry, cassis; TASTE-fruit bomb (traditionalists won't like), like a $200 Cote Rotie; HIGHLY RECOMMEND; AWESOME; RP-91/93, GV-94
CLOS MIMI PETITE ROUSSE SYRAH NOSE-huge, MASSIVE, candied cherry, fruit, licorice, grapey, currant, orange peel, VERY attractive; TASTE-Buy cases of this!, Unbelievably well-made for a $15 bottle, actually tastes more like a $30-40 Hermitage Red from the Rhone on steroids (more fruit), blown away by complexity and stunned by the finish, HOME RUN ..SHOCKED; for $15 - one of the best QPR values EVER on WLTV!!
THREE MINERS CENTRAL OTAGO EARNSCLEUGH PINOT NOIR NOSE-expressive, KICKS ASS, strawberry, raspberry, cocoa beans, vanilla; TASTE-amazing complexity on mid-palate, tannins firm but integrated, BIG TIME WINE, LOVES; WS-90, GV-93/94
DORNIER DONATUS WHITE COLOR-golden pale; NOSE-oak; TASTE-complex, green apple, fruit, acidity, long finish,
DOMAINE DE LA GARRIGUE COTES DU RHONE CUVEE ROMAINE NOSE-exotic; bell pepper, cinnamon, char, tobacco; TASTE- this is GREAT, medium bodied, lot of flavor, silky smooth long finish, dry, terroir, lot of character, Asian spice, REAL WINNER; RP-90, GV-90
BAD FISH PINOT NOIR RESERVE COLOR-very dark for Pinot Noir; NOSE-concentrated, dark fruit, licorice, cinammon; TASTE-great complexity, lot of fruite, GREAT entry level Pinot Noir; GV-89/90
AMON RA SHIRAZ Barossa (the Napa of Austrailia); COLOR-pitch black; NOSE-licorice, balck currant, blackberry, blueberry pie; TASTE-just EXPLOSIVE, IMMENSE, completely coats your palate, too young, grape juice on steroids, long finish, AMAZING wine in 5 years, RP-93, GV-95/97 (completely different than NON-decanted)
CHEEKY CHICK PECKER'S BLEND WHITE #3 (red); NOSE-peach & passionfruit, TASTE-nice fruit, little too much acidity on finish, nice wine though, nice long finish (honeydew); RP-86; GV-?
PESSAGNO SLEEPY HOLLOW CHARDONNAY #1; NOSE-tight; TASTE-Wow surprise tremendous bottle of wine, much more complete than Beringer, still has explosive Oak flavor, but much more integrated into the overall fruit, a TREMENDOUS effort; GV-91
LEEUWIN ARTIST SERIES RIESLING NOSE-great, dry; TASTE-dry, great longevity, massive mid-palate, straw, pinapple, ELEGANT, great w/ fish, ST-90
LEEUWIN SIBLINGS SAUVIGNON BLANC/ SEMILLON NOSE-amazing, exotic, apricot, peach, honeydew, pinapple, fresh grass; TASTE-lush, full in mid-palate, AMAZING, STUNNING WINE; BUY a CASE; RP-90
TWO UP SHIRAZ By Far, the BEST of this BUNCH, NOSE-wow, acacia flowers, plum, cocoa; TASTE-great structure, nice mid-palate, long bacon fat finish, ton of fruit: strawberry, currant, plum, blackberries. FANTASTIC. This is what you're looking for..BARGAIN!
FELSINA BERARDENGA CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA RANCIA #3; Sangio's are nice, especially when aged; NOSE-classic Tuscan nose (earth tones, green pepper), hints of molded wood, TASTE-great acidity, tremendous balance, white clove, sour cherry, like SILK, Old World, medium body, great structure, very drinkable Tuscan wine RIGHT NOW!!; velvet integrated perfectly; WS-90; GV-90
PEIRANO ESTATE THE OTHER WHITE #2b; COLOR-nice golden color; NOSE-Viognier nose (oily, lemon), hint of vanilla, custard pie TASTE-real full body, great complexity, nice acidity, very aromatic, like Alsatian wines but w/ more body, great w/ Thanksgiving, great QPR, GV-89
DEIDESHEIM WINZERVERIEN DORNFELDER #1; COLOR-dark; NOSE-very earthy, black cherry & green aspects; TASTE-hint of residual sugar, interesting mouth-feel, lots of fruit (dark cherry), VERY GOOD, lots of tannin structure, great QPR, blend of Beaujolais & zinfandel, very alive & fresh; GV-88
BODEGAS REJADORADA TINTO #2; COLOR-darker; NOSE-smoked ham w/ cherry sauce on it; TASTE-more popular flavor profile for US, very dry, totally integrated, more lush, more new world, CA profile; GV-89+
THORN CLARKE SHOTFIRE RIDGE SHIRAZ #2; COLOR-obnoxiously dark; NOSE-viscous, black cherry, blackcurrant; TASTE-huge mouth-feel, dark cherry, raspberry, firm tannins, nice grip on the mid-palate, long finish, new world, but NOT fake, ABSOLUTE STEAL; RP-92; GV-92
SHARECROPPER'S PINOT NOIR #4; VaynerPAZZZ (on QPR); NOSE-nice, hint of cassis, heavy blackberry/blueberry, Russian Bear Candy??; TASTE-disjointed, very young, no mid-palate, finish is good, solid, GV-88
REX HILL OREGON PINOT NOIR #5; VaynerPAZZZ; COLOR-darker; NOSE-awkward, cabbage, smokey salmon; TASTE-light Pinot considering color, black pepper, blueberry pie, mushroom aspect, finish is soft; GV-86
ARGIOLAS COSTAMOLINO #3; (White Aperitif; like Godello); COLOR-golden; NOSE-golden honey & lemon (bees & lemons); TASTE-nice acidity, very clean, nice entry level wine, hint of Granny Smith apples, long finish, little too hot, solid for $9; RP-91; GV-88
DUBOEUF FLEURIE DES QUATRE VENTS #1(Value Red); NOSE-candy, lively, young, red wine smell, lilac, daisy, baked bread; TASTE-big mouth feel, tannins very serious, but integrated really well, more floral (violet) than fruity, little earthiness on mid-palate; WA(Pierre Rovani)-90; GV-89+
CHATEAU PAPE CLEMENT #3; COLOR-as dark as any wine EVER on WLTV; NOSE-black cherry, cassis, musty, bat cave; TASTE-classic bordeaux, amazing complexity & richness, big wine, black pepper, white truffle, obvious cherry cola, long finish, charred oak; RP-96/100; GV-94
LOUIS JADOT POUILLY FUISSE LESSON-Pouilly Fuisse IS 100% Chardonnay; NOSE-heavy oak & butter; TASTE-much more refined than KJ, nice medium body; flavors a little unbalanced, not feeling the finish, GV-85
KENNEDY POINT SAUVIGNON BLANC NOSE-real grassy, grapeftuit; TASTE-classic cat piss, silky, complex, Pouily Fume Style (crisp & clean, but has weight); PAIRED w/ Monte Enebro Goat Cheese (So-So combo); GV-92
FICHET MACON IGE CHATEAU LONDON #2; from the "ghetto" of Burgandy; COLOR-not great, very light for Chardonney; NOSE-extremely seductive, candied fruit, apricot, peach sorbet, lemon peel; TASTE-nice lingering tropical flavors, mango on mid-palate, this is NICE WINE, REALLY GOOD QPR, Better than $15 Chards (i.e. Kendall-Jack, Meridian, Stirling etc.); GV-88
JOHN ANTHONY SAUVIGNON BLANC NOSE-big, creamier than NO, rock; TASTE-well made, very California, bigger mouth feel, GOOD bottle but PREFERS the NO, but this is better w/ food WS-90, GV-89
VALDESIL MONTENOVO GODELLO NOSE-complex, lemon-lime, kiwi;a kiwi drenched in Sprite; TASTE-crisp, clean, great acidity, (like a Sauv Blanc), VERY well made; better than 95% of the Pinot Grigio's; BLOWN AWAY by this wine; W&S-91, GV-90 (GV predicts Godello is an up and coming grape)
CHATEAU ST JEAN FUME BLANC Margo says, "fresh, melon, peach, lemon grass"; GV says "crisp, clean, EXCELLENT value"
CHATEAU BRANON LEGENDARY VINTAGE; COLOR-extrodinary; NOSE-really nice; TASTE-very bitter tannins on the finish, clear cut black fruit, currant, cassis, Asian spice, Asian spice, strawberry; finish is killing, REALLY, REALLY EXTRAORDINARY; MASSIVE; RP-92/95, GV-94/98
SIMONSIG SAUVIGNON BLANC NOSE-amazing grapefruit, boysenberry, cantelope peel; TASTE-tons of grapefruit, great acidity, very clean, crisp, blows away any $15 from CA. a GREAT bottle of wine; BUY a CASE!! GV-?
