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Click on Semester below for Tasting Notes.
Fall 2003 Semester, Spring 2004 Semester,
Fall 2004,Semester,Spring 2005 Semester,
Fall 2005 Semester,Spring 2006 Semester,
Fall 2006 Semester, Spring 2007 Semester,
Fall 2007 Semester, Spring 2008 Semester,
Fall 2008 Semester, Spring 2009 Semester,
Fall 2009 Semester, Spring 2010 Semester,
Fall 2010 Semester, Spring 2011 Semester,
Fall 2011 Semester, Spring 2012 Semester,
Fall 2012 Semester, Spring 2013 Semester,
Fall 2013 Semester, Spring 2014 Semester,
Fall 2014 Semester, Spring 2015 Semester,
Fall 2015 Semester,
Oct. 8, 03 Bordeaux Night- Sorry, no tasting notes taken.
Oct. 15, 03 Burgundy Night- 2000 Macon-Lugny, my score 85, closed nose, good balance, nice fruit,
short finish. 2000 Moulin-A-Vent, my score 81, closed nose, full bodied, good tannins, will
improve. 2000 Givry, my score 76, very light in color, nose, body and flavor. (Avoid)
1999 Rully, my score 94, varietal nose w/ some bouquet, perfect balance, a keeper.
Oct. 22, 03 Spanish Night - 2001 Bodegas Montecillo (White), my score 83,
small nose, good fruit, fresh acidity, a pleasant suprise. 2000 Solaz my score 75,
sound wine with no special attributes.1998 Bodegas Montecillo Crianza) my score 80,
nose slightly closed, medium body, drinking well now.1997 Bodegas Montecillo (Reserva) my
score 83deep color, full body, nice finish, recomend keeping for two years. 1995 Bodegas
Montecillo (Gran Reserva) my score 83 the score does not do this wine justice, closed
nose, very dark color, This wine will open up in about 5 or 6 years and last another decade.
Oct. 29, 03 Australia & New Zealand Night - 2002 The Crossings, N. Zealand Sauv. Blanc
my score 85 Floral nose, great balance, good finish.2001 Penfolds "Koononga Hill" Chard.
my score 79 closed nose, not much flavor.2002 Penfolds "Rawson's Retreat" Cab. Sauv.
my score 82 strong varietal nose, decent balance, a small scale Cab. but a great value.
2001 Penfolds "Rawson's Retreat" Cab./Shiraz my score 76 No one in the class liked this one.
2001 Penfolds "Thomas Hyland" Shiraz my score 83 Big,full wine with nice tannins but
needs a few years.
Nov. 5, 03 Italian Night - 2002 Montelpulciano d' Abruzzo, my score 73 a simmple
straightforward wine with high acid balance and zero finish. 2001 Pozzi Primitivo my score
68 a real disapointment.2001 Vitiano my score 80 nice balance, med. body, finished
short.2001 Alaura Chianti my score 81 closed nose, slightly sweet.2002 S. Orsola,
Dolcetto d' Albaa baby, needs time to develope, score82. 1999 S. Orsola, Barolo
Score 89 Needs another 5 years, floral nose developing, full body, nice tannins, long finish.
Nov. 12, 03 Chilean Night - 2002 Santa Maria Sauv. Blanc, score 74 small non-varietal
nose, trace of bitterness,short finish. 2003 Santa Maria Chardonnay class liked this one the least
, Score 70 high acid, poor balance. 2001 Los Vascos Cab. Sauv. score 73 no aroma,
very light in body. 2000 Los Vascos Cab. Sauv. Reserve score 87 developing nose, slightly
tannic, good balance, needs a few years. 1999 Santa Maria Grand Reserva Grand Vidure / Cab. big full nose,
well balanced with berry fruit flavors, soft tannins, long finish. Better in three to five years.
Score 93
Nov. 19, 03 California Night - 2002 River Road Chardonnay, score 85 smooth,
full bodied, buttery. 2001 Muirwood Cab. Sauv., score 83 strong varietal nose, light
body and short finish. 2001 Muirwood Merlot, score 69 closed nose, slightly acidic,
light body, real poor showing. 2000 Rosenblum Zinfandel (Oakley Vineyards) Great floral nose,
good balance, silky texture, long finish. score 90 1999 Marietta Cellars Petite Syrah
score 88 Class favorite, huge body, lots of fruit, good tannins, long finish.
Nov. 26, 03 Blind Tasting No notes, wines listed on main page.
Nov. 26, 03 Special Tasting of Old Calif. Cab. Sauv. - 1986 Kenwood Cab. Sauv., score 90 strong
nose, good color, long finish, will last 5 more years. 1987 Jos. Phelps Cab. Sauv., score 88 nose developed
in glass after a few minutes, with great bouquet, finished sweet. 1988 Jos. Phelps Cab. Sauv. slightly lighter
color than the '87 but great bouquet and drinking at it's peak. score91
Dec. 3, 03 Graduation Night & Champagne Party - Perrier Jouet By far the class favorite. Yeasty nose, crisp
acidity, long finish. Pol Roger Great contrast to the first wine. Stronger flavor, more full bodied.
Charles Heidsieck Reserve Perhaps the 2nd favorite. A bold, toasty wine with powerful effervescence. Mumm Cordon Rouge
Not as impressive as the first three, good balance, short finish. Veuve Hennerick In all catagories a real disappointment,
Put this one on your do not buy list. Piper Sonoma Brut & Blanc De Noir Both wines were fair and probably
good value for your dollar but not in the same league as their distant cousins from Champagne.
Spring 2004 Semester.
March 10, 04 Bordeaux Night Sorry, I could not attend this tasting, due to having back surgery. However my wife was there
and scored the wines as follows: 2002 Chateau Menaut, Graves score82, 2000 Chateau Bonnet, Bordeaux
score64, Chateau Cruzeau, Pessac-Leognan, Graves, Score66, 2000 Chateau La Croix Bonis,
St. Estephe, Score70. Not very impressive scores.
March 17, 04, Burgundy Night 2002 Domaine du Val Lamartien - St. Veran - Good Appearance and color but a strange
off odor and taste score 74 2000 Cote de Beaune Villages - Light color and body, slightly tannic and finished
down, score 80 - 1999 Gevrey Chambertin, Darker color with varietal nose, slightly tannic but good balance and finish
score 90 - 2000 Moulin-a-Vent - Color ok but poor balance, slightly acid, score 79 1990 Moulin-a-Vent - Medium
dark color, slightly floral, varietal nose, good balance, "smooth", finished up, score 87
March 24, 04, German, Austrian Night 2002 Piesporter Michelsberg, Kabinett - Faint green apple nose, slightly
sweet, score 75 2001 Piesporter Michelsberg, Auslese, If the Kabinett had a apple nose then this was the whole
orchard, score 84 - 2002 Graacher Himmelreich, Kabinett, perfect balance of crisp acidity with underlying sweetness,
full bodied with medium finish, score 89 - 2002 Bernkasteler Badstube, Spatlese, pale straw color, great balance,
long finish, score 88 - 2002 Kremser Goldberg, Gruner Veltliner, Kabinett, real disappointment, high acid with touch
of bitterness, score 71
March 31, 04, Italian Night 1999 S. Andrea in Colle, Chianti Classico Reserva - Floral nose, slightly acid,
nice tannins, score 89 - 2000 Poggio alla Salla, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, mild acid, slightly tannic, score
83 - 2000 Villa Maffei, Valpolicella Classico Ripasso, medium body, slightly bitter, score 84 - 1999 Villa
Maffei, Amarone, soft, velvety, underlying sweetness, long finish, 14.5% alcohol, score 91 - 1998 Rocca Felice,
Barolo, typical strong flavor, med. full body, medium finish, score 89
April 7, 04, Chile Night 2003 Santa Maria, Sauvignon Blanc, strong varietal nose, crisp acidity but with perfect
balance, score 84 - 2003 Santa Maria Chardonnay, from start to finish a real disapointment, score 71 - 2002
Santa Maria Cabernet Sauvignon, very strong tannins, not much else, score 77 - 2001 Santa Maria, Cab. Sauv., Gran
Reserva, floral nose, nice balance, med. full body, long finish, a winner, score 87 2000 Los Vascos, Cab. Sauv., Reserve,
slightly acid balance, nothing special, score 80
April 14, 04, Australia & New Zealand Night 2002 The Crossings, Sauvignon Blanc, N. Zealand, Varietal aroma,
with citrus notes, intense flavors with crisp acidity, score 87 2003 Penfolds, Thomas Hyland Chardonnay, lemon on the
nose, complex array of flavors, clean finish, needs 4 or 5 years, score 80 2003 Penfolds, Koonunaga Hill, Semillon -
Chardonnay, Closed nose, medium body, creamy, with crisp finish, nothing special, score 76 2002 Rosemont Estate, Hill
of Gold Shiraz, massive wine with 14.5% alcohol, spicy aroma, peppery fruit, very full bodied with huge amount of tannic acid
that will take years to smooth out, score 89 2002 Penfolds, Koonunga Hill Shiraz - Cabernet, nose withdrawn but with
trace of chocolate, full bodied but with slightly high acidity, score 79
April 21, 04, California Night 2002 Robert Mondavi, Fume Blanc, great pineapple and citrus nose, well balanced,
full bodied with spicy finish. score 90 1997 La Famiglia di Robert Mondavi, Sangiovese, varietal nose, perhaps a little
acid, some tannins remaining, not worth the $17.49 price tag. score 80 1998 Gallo Sonoma, Barrelli Creek Vineyard,
Zinfandel, easy going, full bodied Zin with black cherry flavor, balance leaning toward sweet, probably not worth the $18
price tag. (The third bottle was frizzante) score 83 2000 Kenwood, Sonoma County, Cab. Sauv., Small closed in nose,
not well balanced, short finish, a totaly forgetable bottle of wine. score 77 1999 Meridian Vineyards, Paso Robles,
Shiraz, woodsy aromas, jammy fruit, lightly structured. At $8.99 it was the star of the evening. score 85
April 28, 04, Blind Tasting No notes. Wines listed on main page.
May 5, 04, Champagne Party NV Taittinger, This semesters class favorite, classic blend with fine bubbles and both
fruity and bready nose, score 92 - NV Perrier Jouet, lighter in nose and on the palete than the Taittinger but well
balanced, score 88 - NV Pol Roger, entirely different nose due to the blend having one third Pinot Meunier, very full
bodied and long finish, score 90 - 1996 Veuve Cliquot Ponsardin, Rose Reserve, a real treat with pinot flavors that
just keep coming in waves, score 93 - 1999 Schramsberg, Blanc de Blancs, all chardonnay and much lighter than the wine
before but strong bubbles and nice balance, score 89 - NV Roederer Estate, very popular with the class, Wine Spectator
rated it a 92 however my score was 88 probably due to tasting too many great Champagnes before - 2000 Domaine Carneros
the least popular among the class, does not stand up to it's namesake Taittinger, score 85
Fall 2004 Semester. 
New wine scoring system for the fall semester. We will continue to use the 100 point
scoring system but we will then devide the score by the price of the wine. This will give us a idea of the value of the wine.
So a wine that scored 82 points and cost $15 would have a value rating of 5.47. Expressed as 82/5.47. I think this will help
us realize the quality of the wine plus the commerical value. Or the biggest bang for the buck.
October 6, 04, Bordeaux Night 2003 Chateau Haut La Croix, AOC Graves. Poor example, thin and closed 73/10.4
2000 Chateau Roc Taillade, AOC Medoc. A real "light weight" with off aromas 75/6.81 2000 Chateau D'Arvigny, AOC
Haut Medoc. slightly better but bitter with short finish 85/7.72 2000 Chateau L'Etampe, AOC St. Emilion, easily best
wine of the evening. smooth tannins and plenty of fruit. 89/7.41
October 13, 04, Rhone Night 1999 Cave de Tain L' Hermitage, AOC Hermitage, Dark purple color, Varietal aroma plus
raspberries, full bodied with much tannin, long finish. A real keeper. 90/3 2000 Chateau L' Ermitage (Saint Cecile),
AOC Costieres de Nimes, Very light in color, vinous but not varietal nose, poor balance, short lived 73/5.62 2000
Vacqueyras (Cuvee Du President), high alcohol in nose and taste, better sugar/acid balance 78/6.51 2000 Chante Cigale,
AOC Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the 14% alcohol was present on the nose but not the taste, good balance, medium body, finished well,
83/4.15
October 20, 04, Spanish Night 2000 Artero - Crianza, La Mancha, Light color, tempranillo nose, slightly acid, mildly
tannic, light body, short finish 81/10.13 2001 Martin Berdugo - Crianza, Ribera del Duero, a lot of jammy fruit on the
nose, a decent effort but perhaps not worth the money 88/6.29 1998 Castillo D Clavijo - Riserva, Rioja, good varietal
aroma plus wood on the nose, perfect balance, long lingering finish 89/5.93 Castillo D Clavijo - Gran Riserva, Rioja,
fruit plus oak on the nose, good balance with soft tannins, extremely full bodied, long, long finish. 91/4.55
October 27, 04, Italian Night 2001 Bellini Chianti Classico, Nice color, floral but not varietal nose, well balanced
with lingering finish 88/4.63 2003 Barbera, closed nose, slightly acidic 74/12.35 2002 Dolcetto, closed nose,
full bodied but lacking acid75/10.73 1999 S. Orsola, Barbaresco, (One Bottle Bad) other bottle not balanced well, to
much acid 76/3.80 1999 S. Orsola, Barolo, varietal nose, full, firm body with strong tannins but well balanced, long
finish. This bottle was great but needs three or four more years ageing.88/4.40
November 3, 04, Argentina and Chile Night2002 Vina Santa Carolina, Chardonnay, Light body, lacking acid78/7.81
2002 Finca Flichman, Malbec Reserva, Full floral nose, perhaps a little high in acid, smooth tannins with med. long finish
84/8.412002 Los Vascos, Cab. Sauv., (One bottle was bad)A lightweight wine with a withdrawn nose 79/12.17 2002
Anakena, Carmenere, Nasty amonia type nose (Bottles were dumped, No Score), 2002 Errazuiriz Ovalle, Carmenere Reserve, varietal
nose that opened up in the glass, good balance, fruit forward, med. body, long finish 81/9.01
November 10, 04, Australian NightThanks to a donation by Michele Heaton a 2003 Coopers Creek, Sauvignon Blanc from
Marlborough, New Zealand $8, did not rate the wine but it was great, crisp acidity with a strong varietal nose, 2003 Penfolds,
Rawson's Retreat, Chardonnay $6.49, closed nose, a fruit forward style of wine with a short finish 85/13.10 2002 Penfolds
Koonunga Hill, Semillon / Chardonnay, $7.49, a semillon varietal nose, medium body but lacking acid 84/11.21 2003 Ninth
Island, Tasmanian Pinot Noir, $12.99, More of a Gamay nose than a Pinot, medium body with nice balance, still rather tannic
but nice finish 88/6.77 2003 Lennard's Crossing, Shiraz $7.99, Poor balance, high in acid but also too much residual sugar,
74/9.26 2003 Lennard's Crossing, Shiraz / Cab. Sauv. $7.99, A class favorite, very drinkable now 86/10.76 2002
Rosemont Estate, Grenache / Shiraz $6.49, A beautiful rasberry nose but little else 79/12.17
November 17, 04, California and Oregon Night 2002 Kenwood, Sauvignon Blanc, A varietal nose but nothing else, low in
acid for a Sauv. Blanc, drink now $8.49 78/9.19 2001 Cricklewood, Pinot Noir, closed in nose, high acid, slightly tannic
not recomended $12.99 75/5.77 2001 Ravenswood Zinfandel, $13.99, very dark color, varietal nose plus blackberry bouquet,
full bodied, good finish 86/6.15 2001 Gallo of Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon, $8.49 varietal nose, medium body 78/9.19
2000 Estancia Meritage $23.99, deep color, Merlot strongly present in the nose and flavor, perfect balance, long finish 88/3.67
November 24, 04,Blind Tasting After the wines were uncovered: #1 Dolcetto d' Alba, #2 Ribera del Duero, #3 Gallo
of Sonoma Cab. Sauv., #4 Shiraz / Cab. Sauv., #5 Chateauneuf-Du-Pape.
December 1, 04, Champagne Party
Spring 2005 Semester.
March 16, '05 Bordeaux Tasting #1 2003 Chateau Bonnet (Entre-Doux-Mers)A easy going low acidity Sauv. / Sem. blend
with nothing special to offer. 72 #2 2000 Chateau Gloria (St. Julien) Dark color, varietal nose, soft tannins but a
bit high in acid, medium finish 89 #3 2000 Chateau La Tonnelle (Haut Medoc) Medium dark color, Varietal aroma plus a
floral "violet" nose, soft tannins but also slightly high acid, medium length finish 85 #4 1996 Domaine des Gourdins (St. Emilion)
lighter in color but 4 yrs. older, Merlot nose with near perfect sugar / acidity balance, perfect for drinking now, the class
favorite. 88 #5 2001 Clos de La Vielle Englise (Cotes de Castillon) Almost no nose, light color, no body, no balance,
no finish, no way 74
March 22, 05,Spain Night #1 2003 Marques de Caceres (White Rioja) Pale straw color, mineral style nose,
high in acid, short finish 75 not to bad for $5.49. #2 2002 Solaz by Osborne, closed nose, traces of fruit and
fairly good balance but a small wine with a short finish 81 #3 1999 Berberanna Vina Alarde, Rioja Crianza, a major
disapointment 80 #4 1999 Berberanna Reserva, Great peppery bouquet over tempranillo aroma, soft tannins,
fruit developing at mid-palate, strong finish. Winner 89 #5 1996 Berberanna Gran Reserva 1st bottle was
slightly corked. 2nd bottle, not as good as the Reserva. The only flavor was wood. 83
April 6, '05,Sauvignon Blanc Tasting#1 2003 Chateau Monet (Bordeaux) $7.99, Tea on nose, low acidity too much body
and thankfully short finish 70 #2 2003 Christian Salmon, Sancerre, Old Vines $15.99 Fantastic nose, Lemon, butter,
Pineapple, flinty, great balance anf flavor with long finish. 89 #3 2003 Blanchet, Pouilly Fume $15.99, A disapointment
after the Sancerre, traces of quinine or bitterness on the nose, 86 #4 2002 Silverado Vineyards, Napa, $11.99, Nothing
special here, high alcohol on the nose and flavor, low acidity. 74 #5 2002 Selaks, Marlbourough, New Zealand, $10.99,
Grapefruit & honey on the nose but also some off odors, at mid palate, no flavor at all, finished down 67 #6 2003 The
Crossings, Marlborough, NZ, $14.99, Huge, powerful nose, passionfruit, apricot, kiwi fruit, Flavors of fruit keep on coming
perhaps a little to overpowering 84
April 13, '05,Italian Night #1 2003 Dolcetto d' Alba, $7.99, Good fruit, drinking well now, will last another two
years 81 #2 2000 S. Orsola, Barolo, tight, closed but powerful, great potential, hold for 5 years 87 #3 2001
Gabbiano, Chianti Classico $10.99, closed nose, drinking well, slight acid mid palett, hold 1 year 85 #4 2001 Banfi,
Chianti Classico Reserva, $14.99, Nose just starting to develop, lovely soft tannins, great balance and long finish, a real
keeper 90 #5 1997 Mastroberardino Taurasi,$19.99 Plum and jammy aromas with subtle tars, Power with silky texture, great
balance and lingering finish. A great wine at a great price. 94 #6 2000 Masi, Costasera Amarone, $37.99, Inky dark in
color, deep vanilla and berry nose, massive body, finish that just clings to the palett. A great finish to a great night for
the class. 98 Drink now to 2015.***
April 20, '05,Chile & Argentina Night #1 2004 Pascual Toso, Chardonnay, Argentina $10.99, Wine had distinct varietal
aroma with hints of vanilla on nose, slightly high acid balance, low in body and short finish 76 #2 2003 Santa Maria,
Chardonnay Gran Reserva, Chile $11.99, Only slightly better than #1, more body but not much more flavor. Withdrawn 78
#3 2003 Los Vascos, Cab. Sauv.(100%), Chile $7.99, varietal nose with some berry aromas, full bodied with nice soft tannins
flavors developing at mid palate then finishing down (needs two years) 85 #4 2002 Luis Felipe Edwards, Cab. Sauv. (100%)
Gran Reserva, Chile $11.49, Hot with alcohol both on the nose and tip of tongue, it overpowered everything else 77 #5
2003 Septima, Malbec, Argentina $9.99, Inky color, powerfull aromas, good balance, but again slightly hot with alcohol, finished
long 83 #6 2004 Casillero del Diablo, Concha Y Tora, Carmenere $8.50, very dark color, lovely varietal nose, still developing, med. body,
full flavors, needs another year 81
April 27, '05, Australia & New Zealand Night #1 2003 Rosemont Estates, Show Reserve Chardonnay $12.99, Nose opens up
with fruit, vanilla and oak, full body with good balance, many fruit flavors, green apple 89 #2 2003 Rosemont Estates
Chardonnay / Semillon $6.49(Nothing Special) 79 #3 2002 Victorias Crest, Syrah Reserve $11.99, poor showing for a syrah, light body,
light color, light in flavor 74 #4 2003 Rosemont Estates, Grenache / Shiraz $6.49, not recomended at any price 72
#5 2003 Terra Barossa "Cuvee", Shiraz / Cab. Sauv. / Mourvedre $11.99, Very dark "inky" color, interesting blend, the Cab. the
most pronounced. Flavors kept developing, and finished well 85 #6 2003 Kim Crawford, Pinot Noir, New Zealand, dark color
barely varietal nose, balance leaned toward acid, light body, short finish 79
May 4, '05, California Night #1 2002 Jordan Chardonnay $22.99, A major disapointment Not even a varietal
nose, sugar level to high as a result of late harvest, high alcohol and high ph. 70 #2 2002 Clos Pegase Chardonnay $16.99, Much
deeper color than the Jordan, Varietal nose with citrus fruit aromas and a hint of vanilla, Slightly high acid balance and
a long finish 88 #3 2001 Montoya Cabernet Sauvignon, A real nothing wine, light color, closed nose, not much flavor,
soft tannins but that was all, I was grateful for the short finish 75 #4 2001 Franciscan Zinfandel, $15.99, very dark color,
huge floral nose, full bodied, great balance, finished long "A real keeper" 92 #5 Frei Brothers Syrah $18.99, inky
color, strong varietal nose but not much more, for a syrah it was light in body, powerful tannins, maybe try this again in 4
or 5 yrs. 85 #6 2002 Morgan Pinot Noir $19.99, I had tried a bottle of this one month ago and it was a great Pinot. However
the two bottles we had in class did not show well at all. It took several minutes for the aroma to open up and when it did it
was lovely. The flavors at mid palate through finish remained closed. Perhaps this wine requires decanting to open up.80
May 11, '05, Blind Tasting Night No tasting notes.
May 18, '05, Champagne Night
Fall 2005 Semester.
October 5, '05, Bordeaux Night #1 2003 Chateau Coucheroy (Graves) $12.99, A varietal nose, light in body and flavor,
finished nicely, needs a couple of years.81 #2 2002 Chateau Guibon (Entre-Deux-Mers) $9.99, Semillon nose, not well balanced,
low in acidity, resulting in lack of freshness. 76 #3 2000 Chateau Chabrot (Cotes de Bordeaux) $9.99, Closed nose, again
poor balance. High in acid with trace of bitterness. 70 #4 2001 Chateau Fonseche (Haut Medoc) $11.99, Another light weight
disappointment. Low acidity and off "dusty" flavors. 70 #5 2000 Chateau La Rose De Jaugue (St. Emilion) $17.99, Merlot
nose plus hints of tar and spice, developing flavors but low in body. 80 #6 2001 Chateau du Grand Carrety (Sauternes)
$17.99, Semilion nose plus faint fruit odors developing, typical Sauternes huge body yet firm texture, perfect balance and
finished "up". Will improve with a few years ageing.92
October 12, '05, Burgundy Night #1 2004 Domaine Saint Martin (Saint Veran) $12.99, Pale straw color, nose still
closed in but with a trace of pear, balance poor, leaning towards acid.82 #2 2002 1st cru La Comme (Santenay) $24.99,
Lovely varietal nose with hints of fruit, perfect balance, a medium bodied, well structured wine. 90 #3 2002 1st cru
Les Puillets (Mercurey) $19.99, Closed nose, thin, poor balance. 76 #4 2003 Moulin-A-Vent (Georges Duboeuf) $10.99, A
big jammy varietal nose, full bodied with good balance. Needs a few more years. 88 #5 1990 Moulin-A-Vent Private Reserve
(Georges Duboeuf), One of our bottles was maderized the other was fine showing a bouquet of fruit with hints of tar and spices,
well structured with plenty of flavor. Not bad for a 15 year old Beaujolais. 87
October 19, '05, Wines of Spain Night #1 2001 Montecillo, Rioja (Crianza) $7.99, Garnet color, varietal nose,
good balance, medium body with lots of fruit. Needs approx. three more years. 87 #2 1998 Montecillo, Rioja (Reserva)
$15.99, Closed nose, very acid, poor example 68 #3 1996 Montecillo, Rioja (Gran Reserva) $19.99, You could smell the French
oak above the varietal and fruit aromas, well balanced, good structure, layers of flavors, nice finish. Good to drink now or
keep 10 more years. 91 #4 2002 Tinto Pesquera, Ribera Del Duero (Crianza) $26.99, Lovely fruity aromas with hint of dark
chocolate, nice tannins, layers of fruit, needs more time but fine now. 89 #5 2003 La Conreria, Priorat, $15.99, The
class was divided on this wine. It was tannic and will need a lot of time to develop. I thought it was high in acid. Robert
Parker gave this wine a 92 but I only gave it a 78. What's he know. #6 2004 Eolo,Navarra (100% Grenacha), $7.99,
Looking young the wine was very light in color, closed nose, disagreable tannins, not well balanced. In time, who knows. 82
October 26, '05, Italian Night #1 2004 Pietro (Barbera) Piedmont $5.99, A simple fruit forward wine, good to drink
now 76 #2 2004 S. Orsola (Dolcetto d' Alba) Piedmont $7.99, Great pizza wine, aroma still a little closed but tannic
enough to improve for two years 82 #3 1999 Rivetto (Barolo) Piedmont $34.99, Garnet color, varietal aroma plus floral
bouquet, good balance and nice structure but not very full bodied. Drinks well now but not for cellaring. 89 #4 2001
Terre Di Rubinoro (Vino Nobile di Montepulciano) $16.99, Needs a few years in the cellar. 84 #5 1997 Mastroberardino
"Radici" (Taurasi) $19.99, Dark Color, Wonderful spice and fruit aromas, Perfect balance, a few nice tannins, layers of flavor
and a very long finish. 94 #6 2002 Abbazia Santa Anastasia (Nero d' Avola) Sicily $11.99, A rustic wine that tasted a little
unfinished. Needs some time to develop. 81 #7 2001 Bolla (Amarone) Venato $33.99, Dark color, Light aroma, massive body,
layers of flavor, nice "up" finish 89
November 2, '05, South American Night #1 2004 Santa Maria (Gran Reserva) Sauvignon Blanc $11.99, light color, good
varietal nose, well balanced with crisp acidity 80 #2 2004 Anakena (Reservado) Chardonnay $9.99, Pleasant nose with
hints of vanilla and oak, but that was all, light body, slightly acid and sort finish 74 #3 2003 Santa Rosa (Reserva)
Cabernet Sauvignon $12.99, very dark, closed nose, very tannic but good structure and body. Great potential, needs about three
years of cellaring. 81 #4 2003 Santa Maria (Gran Reserva) Cabernet Sauvignon $13.99, Much less tannic than prior wine,
drinking well now but will not last 83 #5 2004 Casillero del Diablo Carmenere $8.50, Medium color, varietal nose, with
hints of green pepper as well as in the flavor (Jason), 82 #6 2004 Finca Flichman (Reserva) Malbec $9.99, Strong, well
structured tannic wine. Needs a few years. 81 #7 2003 (Un-named from Washington State) Malbec Thanks to Jason, Made from
frozen grapes. Very unusual aromas and flavors. Good Fruit and popular with the class 75 #8 2004 Pisano - Rio De Los Pajaros
(Reserve) Tannat (Uruguay) $10.99, A massive wine to lay away. Tannic with Layers of flavor and a finish that won't stop 86
November 9, '05, Australia & New Zealand Night#1 2005 Fauna, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand $9.99,
Water white color, mixed fruit aromas, fresh, crisp flavors, low in acid, very drinkable 73 #2 The Stump Jump, Riesling,
Sauv. Blanc, Marsanne $9.99, Closed nose, high acid levels69 #3 2003 Penfold's "Thomas Hyland" Chardonnay $10.99, Varietal
aroma plus oak and traces of vanilla, good balance, full bodied with layers of flavor, short finish 89 #4 2004 Ninth Island,
Pinot Noir, Tasmania (One Bad Bottle) light nose, chemical off flavors 69 #5 2003 d'Arenberg "The Footbolt" Shiraz,
McLaren Vale $16.99, Very dark colors, huge varietal nose with traces of chocolate, well balanced, massive body, long finish,
a great wine to lay down 91 #6 2002 d' Arenberg Shiraz/Grenache $17.99, Lighter color than the shiraz, burnt aromas,
high acid, a rather harsh wine 72 #7 2004 The Stump Jump, Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvedre $9.99, a light weight but ready to
drink right now. "Quaffable"76
November 16, '05, California Night (Sonoma)(Sorry but with a head cold my nose is not working to well>) #1 2003 Rodney Strong
Chardonnay, Chalk Hill $14.99< Closed Nose but good balance with a rich creamy texture 88 #2 2002 Gloria Ferrer Pinot
Noir, Carneros $19.99, Dark color, silky texture, some fruit, finished up but not popular with the class 78 #3 1996 Gallo
Sonoma (Barrelli Creek Vineyard) Alexander Valley Zinfandel $17.99, (One very bad bottle with chemical odors and taste) 2nd bottle
had strong varietal nose, balanced well with layers of fruit, full body 82 #4 2000 Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
$15.99, good fruit, soft tannins, not bad but not special 79 #5 2001 Estancia "Meritage" Alexander Valley $23.99, Dark
color with huge varietal plus floral nose, full bodied with balance leaning towards sweet side, layers of flavor and very long
finish. Great now need two more years. 93 #6 2001 Marietta Cellars Petite Syrah $17.99, Inky in color, Huge varietal
nose, body, structure and flavors MASSIVE. A flavorfull powerhouse that will last another decade 90
November 23, '05, Final Exam, Blind TastingNo notes taken. Two persons scored 100%
November 30, '05, Champagne Party
Spring 2006 Semester.
March 8, '06, Bordeaux Night #1 2003 Chateau Lafont Menaut (Pessac-Leognan) $15.99 + tax, light color, varietal aroma
plus earthy aroma, light body, fairly well balanced, short finish 84 #2 2000 Chateau Greysac (Medoc) $14.99 + tax, Cab. plus
plum aroma, slightly acid, light body, not much flavor 80 #3 2000 Domaine des Gourdins (Saint Emilion) $17.99 + tax,
Dark color, aroma of Cab. Franc plus jammy fruit, Light agreeable tannins, well balanced, full body, long finish 92
#4 2000 Chateau La Fleur des Rouzes (Pomerol) $19.99 + tax, dark color, full but undeveloped nose, High sharp tannins, slightly
high acid levels 82 #5 2002 Chateau du Grand Carretey (Sauternes) $17.99 + tax, pale straw color, Semillon plus honey
nose, well balanced with layers of sweetness, finish that goes on forever 90
March 15, '06, Burgundy Night #1 2003 Chablis Premier Cru "Fourchaume" $27.99, water white color, non varietal but
mineral nose, dry lingering finish 88 #2 2004 Saint Veran, Domaine du Val Lamartien $10.99, pale straw coloe, varietal nose,
with hints of pear, full body, short finish 90 #3 2002 Aloxe-Corton, Les Brunettes et Planchots $29.99, Light color,
closed in nose, high in acid, harsh flavors, not recomended 72 #4 2002 Santennay, La Comme,$24.99 as good as last semester
maybe better. Last semester 90 this semester 92 #5 2002 Morgon, Beaujolais $11.99, lovely Gamay nose with jammy
fruit, slightly tannic, needs one or two more years but drinking well now 90
March 22, '06, Italian Night #1 2001 S. Orsola, Barbaresco $15.99, varietal aroma, poor balance being slightly
acid. 78 #2 2002 Montepulciano D'Abruzzo $7.99, fruity arooma, light body 76 #3 2002 Banfi Chianti Classico Riserva,
$14.99, aromas of fruit, wood leather, perfect balance and structure, medium body, long finish 90 #4 2001 Gattavecchi,
Vino Nobile D'Montepulciano $17.99, nose & flavor of wood, closed in, needs a few more years 86 #5 2002 Nero d'Avola
$11.99, fruit aroma, coarse flavor 79 #6 1997 Mastroberadino Taurasi $21.65, many layers of fruit, soft tannins, good
balance, full body, medium finish 92 #7 2001 Satori di Verona, Amarone Della Valpolicella $28.99 honey and fruits, slightly
high in acid, usual full body 88
March 29, '06, Spain Night #1 2004 Marques de Caceres, Rioja (Viura) $6.49, Clear, Clean , Crisp, rather full
bodied for a white wine 82 #2 2000 Castilo D Clavijo, Crianza $8.99, mild fruit nose medium body with good balance 84
#3 1998 Castilo D Clavijo, Reserva $14.99, dark colors, wood and leather nose, slight acid, med. finish 85 #4 1994 Castillo
D Clavijo, Gran Reserva $19.99, nose still closed, nice balance with soft tannins, layers of flavor and long finish 90
#5 2001 Bodegas Corellanas - Crianza, Navarra $8.99, small nose, good balance but harsh tannins 82 #6 2002 Martin berdugo,
Ribera Del Duero $8.99, Slight varietal nose, Low acidity, slightly sweet, full bodied 85 #7 2003 La Conreria, Priorat
$15.99, Strong Garnacha aroma, very tannic, structured well but needs a few years, short finish86
April 5, '06, Australia and New Zealand Night #1 2004 Matariki "Aspire" Sauv. Blanc $11.99, Marlborough NZ, full
fruit nose, layers of fruit mostly grapefruit, good acid balance 90 #2 2004 Lindemans "Bin 77" Semillon / Chard. $6.79,
SE Australia, a poor effort 70 #3 2003 Lindemans Reserve Chard. $7.49 S. Australia, ripe pear on the nose but little else
73 #4 2004 The Crossings Pinot Noir $19.99, Marlborough NZ, varietal nose plus plum, soft tannins but slightly acid 80
#5 2004 Red Knot Shiraz $12.99 McLaren Vale, very dark, blackberry and strawberry on the nose, full body, short finish 82
#6 2004 Penfolds "Rawson's Retreat" Shiraz/Cab. Sauv. $6.49 closed nose, withdrawn, slightly acid 76 #7 2004 Rosemont
Estate Shiraz/Grenache $6.49 opaque color, grenache varietal nose, good balance, full body, medium finish 89
April 12, '06, South American Night #1 2005 Santa Rita, Chardonnay $5.99 Chile, Still very young but nice pear
aromas, balanced well 82 #2 2004 Colonia Las Liebres, Bonarda $10.50 Argentina, dark color, slightly cloudy, nose similar
to a old Syrah, soft tannins 86 #3 2002 Vila Tinto Fundacion, Bonarda-Malbec-Cab. blend $10.50 Argentina, very light
color, the only aroma was the cab., extremly acid, poor structure, light body, thankfully a short finish 68 #4 2004
Santa Maria, Carmenere $7.99 Chile, med. dark color, varietal aroma, harsh tannins and trace of bitterness 77 #5 2004
Cruz Alta, Malbec $9.99 Argentina, dark but clear,varietal aroma, slightly acid, easy tannins but disagreeable flavor 82
#6 2004 Cruz Alta "Reserve", Malbec $11.99, huge difference, light color and aroma but perfect balance and structure, layers
of flavor (The Class Favorite)92 #7 2003 Ariano, Tannat, $10.50 Uruguay, a massive wine but balanced well, very full
bodied with layers of flavor developing 89
April 19, '06, California Night #1 2004 Turnbull Wine Cellars, Sauv. Blanc $16.99 Napa, Light color, Gooseberry aromas,
Slightly low acidity 86 #2 2004 Merryvale "Starmont" Chardonnay $17.99 Napa, Light color, varietal aroma, well balanced,
full body, finished short 84 #3 2001 Martin Ray "Mariage" Pinot Noir $ 13.99 Sonoma County, pronounced varietal aroma,
smooth tannins but a lingering flavor of alcohol 82 #4 2002 Sterling Vineyards Merlot, $17.07+tax Napa, deep color, nose
a little withdrawn but velvety texture, full body and long finish 90 #5 2002 Geyser Peak Winery, Cab. Sauv. $14.99
Alexander Valley, slightly closed nose, but great structure and balance, layers of flavor, long finish (Class Favorite)93
#6 2001 Edgewood Estate Red Wine (Meritage Style) $19.99 Napa Valley, strong Cab. aromas with a little tar, strong tannins,
needs a little more time 86 #7 2003 Norman Estates, Zinfandel "The Monster" $17.99 Paso Robles, nose withdrawn, soft
tannins and good structure but still developing 84
April 26, '06, Blind Tasting
May 3, '06, Champagne Party
Fall 2006 Semester.
Sept. 27, '06, First Night (Special Tasting, Terroir vs Technology) #1 1999 Santenay, Louis Latour (Burgundy)
$30, The Santenay had a slightly light color but strong varietal aroma plus a bouquet of perhaps violets, well balanced wine
with good structure but not long lived 88 #2 2002 Balletto Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, $24, darker color
than the first, varietal aroma but not much else, low in acid but not in Tannic acid 78
October 4th, '06 Bordeaux Night#1 2003 Ch. Menaut, pale straw, nice nose, good balance 90 #2 2000 Ch.
Desire Perriere, Blaye $8.99 acidic, light body and color, poor balance 73 #3 2003 Clos du Cheval Blanc, Bourg $10.99,
very dark, merlot nose, very harsh tannins 78 #4 2000 Ch. Lamothe, Haut Medoc $8.99, closed nose, bitter 69
#5 2000 Domaine des Gourdins, St. Emilion $17.99, dark, merlot nose plus mint, soft tannins, drinking well now 91
October 11th, '06 Burgundy Night #1 2005 Chablis, Domaine J. Chatelain $16.99, varietal aromas, very dry, with
nice fresh and crisp acidity 88 #2 2005 St. Veran, Jean Claude Debeaune $12.99, good balance, short finish 81
#3 2004 Julienas, De Boeuf $13.99, nice fruit levels, drinking well now but not a keeper 78 #4 2004 Mercurey, Les Puillets
$19.99, closed nose, poor balance, alcohol taste 69 #5 2002 Santenay, La Comme $24.99, varietal plus floral nose, great
balance with layers of flavor 93
October 18th, '06 Spanish Night #1 2005 Albarino, Burgans $12.99, light in color and body but fresh, crisp
acidity to go with citrus flavors 89 #2 2003 Osborne "Solaz", nice balance and texture for a everyday house wine $6.99,
#3 2004 La Conreria, Priorat $15.99, dark, closed but showing great potential, needs 4 or 5 years84 #4 2001 Montecillo, Crianza
$7.99, varietal nose, fruity but tannic, needs time 77 #5 2000 Montecillo Reserva $15.99, good structure and balance 81
#6 1998 Montecilla Gran Reserva $19.99, Plenty of wood but none of the flavors of the Reserva 75
October 25th, '06 Italian Night #1 2004 Barbera d'Asti $6.99,fruity but not varietal nose, low acid, short finish,75
#2 2004 Dolcetto d'Alba, Lo Zoccolaio, $12.99 light color, good balance and structure, full bodied 80 #3 2002 Ruffino Chianti Classico
Riserva, $18.99, Sangiovese nose plus oak, perfect balance, nice finish 86 #4 2004 Nero d'Avola,, Acancio $7.49, slightly
acid and a little rough 74 #5 1999 Aglianico Del Vulture Riserva, Tenuta Del Portale $16.99, varietal nose, slightly
tannic, full bodied with layers of flavor 83 #6 2001 Barbaresco, Rivata $12.99, varietal nose plus tar and oak, great
structure and balance, full bodied, long finish, slightly tannic, a keeper 88
November 1st, '06South American Night#1 2004 Santa Rita Cab. Sauv. Reserva $12.49, Aromas of plum and blackberries,
strong tannins, Needs 3 or 4 yeaes 82 #2 2005 Concha y Toro, Carmenere $8.49, good balance and fruit light body, drink now
80 #3 2005 Pisano Cab. Sauv. (Uruguay) $10.99, varietal nose, light body, soft tannins drink now to 1 yr 84 #4
2004 Cruz Alta Malbec Reserva $11.99 closed nose, many off flavors, poor balance a real looser 60 #5 2005 Pisano Tannat
(Uruguay) dark color, floral nose with coffee and slight trace of sulpher, strong structure and finish81
November 8th, '06Australia & New Zealand Night#1 2005 Fauna, Sauv. Blanc, N.Z> $9.99, loaded with tropical fruit84
#2 2005 The Stump Jump, Riesling, Sauv. Blanc, Marsanne blend, $9.99 slightly "frizzante" 7375 #4 2003 d'Arenberg, "Footbolt" Shiraz $15.99, Very dark, varietal aroma
soft tannins, huge body, long finish, needs another 5yrs. at least 87 #5 2005 The Stump Jump, Grenache, Shiraz, Mourvedre
blend $9.99 Plum aromas, good balance and structure, drinking well now 85 - Best Buy #6 2004 Terra Barossa Cuvee, Shiraz,
Petit Verdot, Cab. Sauv., cherry aromas, nice balance, drinking well now $11.99 84
November 15th, '06California Night#1 2005 Turnbull, Sauv. Blanc $16.99, water white in color, well balanced, high
alcohol, needs a few yrs. to develop 81 #2 2004 Cuvaison, Chardonnay $19.99, pale straw, varietal aroma, over oaked for
many of the class 83 #3 1997 Preston, Gamay Beaujolais (Bought at auction for$3.60) light color, off bacterial odors,
possibly brett., 62 #4 2005 Saintsbury "Garnet", Pinot Noir $15.99, dissapointment, could smell and taste alcohol 70
#5 2004 Estancia, Zinfandel $11.99, good structure,light body, drinking well now but not a keeper 84 #6 2003 Rutherford
Vintners $14.99, varietal aroma, slight acidity but pleasing soft tannins 86 #7 2004 Clo de Gilroy, Bonny Doon, Grenache,
$13.99, strong varietal aroma plus plums, Strong flavored and full bodied wine with medium finish 85
November 22nd, '06Blind Tasting (No tasting notes.) Five people got six out of six correctly, for a perfect score.
November 29th, '06Champagne Night (No tasting notes) The majority of the class prefered the full bodied, toasty
flavor of the Veuve Clicquot over the lighter, more delicate Perrier Jouet.
Spring 2007 semester.
Feb. 28th, '07German Wines#1 2005 Dr.Von Basserman-Jordan, QBA (Trocken), Pfalz, $12.21=tax, slight pear nose,
high acid, not well balanced 72 #2 2004 Joh. Jos. Prum, Graacher Himmelreich, Kabinett, MSR, $24.43+tax, varietal aroma,
firm structure and good balance, full bodied with good finish 91 #3 2005 Piesporter Goldtropfchen, Spatlese, MSR, $10.17+tax,
nose closed, not well structured and finished down 80 #4 2001 Zimmermann-Graeff, Brauneberger Juffer, Auslese, MSR
$16.50+tax (In 2002), Pale straw color with honey, green apple aromas, excellent balance and long finish 92
March 7th, '07Bordeaux Wines #1 2003 Chateau Lamothe-Cissac, Haut Medoc $18.99, young plum color good fruit on the
nose but slightly acid throwing off entire balance 78 #2 2003 Chateau Carbonnieux, Pessac-Leognan $19.99, Same color as #1
but less acid, more body but some harsh tannind that stayed through the finish 87 #3 1999 Chateau De Rochemorin, Pessac-Leognan
$18.99, Red brick color, closed nose, good structure but finished down 82 #4 2000 Chateau La Fleur Rouzes, Pomerol $24.99,
young plum color, Merlot varietal aroma plus violets, full bodied with lovely soft tannins, long finish 91 #5 2003 Chateau
Grand Carrety, Sauternes $17.99, young looking pale straw color, aromas of apricot and apple covered in honey, well bodied
with luscious flavors, and a finish that lasrs forever 94
March 14th, '07Rhone Wines #1 2001 Gambert de Loche, Hermitage, $49.99 Very dark, inky color, a subdued but varietal
nose balanced very well, structure and body massive, must cellar 5 to 20 years 94 #2 2003 Domaine Grand Romane, Gigondas
$19.99, medium dark color, grenache aromas but also hot alcohol aromas, slightly high acidity and harsh tannins, on finish the
tannins lasted longer than the flavor 81 #3 2004 Domaine Le Colombier, Vaqueyras $14.99, light color, vinous aroma, high
acid, tasted thin and green, short finish 77 #4 2003 Domaine Le Pigeonnier,Cotes-du-Rhone $10.99, light, possible raisins
on the nose 84 #5 2004 Clos Saint Michel, Chateauneuf-du-Pape $24.99, med. dark color, peppery nose, very slightly acid
soft tannins, full body, keep 5 to 8 years 90
March 21st, '07 Spanish Wines #1 2006 Val Do Sosego, Albarino, Rias Baixas $14.99, color - water white, nose
slightly varietal but closed, great structure, extremly dry without being acid, needs two more years ageing 88 #2 2005
Nostrada, Campo De Borja $6.99, acid, lacked flavor, not recomend ed 72 #3 2002 Vina Rubican, Navarra, Crianza $8.99,
deeper color, Cedar nose, poor balance, tastes thin, not recomended 75 #4 2004 Campo Viejo, Rioja Crianza $8.99, solid
color, varietal aroma with traces of paraffin on the nose, great balance but needs several years for flavor to develop 88
#5 1999 Campo Viejo, Rioja Reserva $13.99, beautiful shades of garnet, varietal aroma plus the obvious oak, well structured
with full body, nice finish 90 #6 1997 ampo iejo, Rioja Gran Reserva $19.99, still dark color with many shades, mild oak nose,
well balanced. soft tannins, could last several decades 94
March 28th, '07Italian Wines #1 NV Rocca Felice, Barbera d' Alba $9.99, A slightly sweet but very quaffable wine
to go with your pizza 78 #2 2004 Moccagatta Dolcetto d' Alba $16.99, a light nose over a poorly structured acetic wine,
not recommended at any price 68 #3 2001 Cappallotto Barolo $29.99, deep dark colors, a strong varietal nose with floral
notes, soft tannins, well balanced and a long finish 89 #4 2002 Ruffino Riserva Ducale $17.29, Always a top Chianti, that
goes well with any pasta dish but the 2002 had a little lighter body than usual 87 #5 2001 Gattavecchi / Riserva dei
Padri Serviti, Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano $24.99, A beautifully structured wine with long finish, drinking perfectly right now. Wine Spectator only
gave it a 84 but I gave it a 94 Highly Recomended #6 2001 Villa De Moreschi, Amarone $31.99, both bottles
were different but they had one thing in common. They were bad. Aromas and taste of alcohol, highly acetic. Perhaps the worst
example of Amarone I ever had. 59 #7 (Bonus Bottle) 2004 Arancio Syrah, Sicily, in magnum (A class donation)A pretty fair
varietal nose over a full bodied but poorly structured wine. Sweet (probably intentional), lacking acid and syrah flavors 75
April 4th, '07 South American Wines #1 2006 Santa Maria, Sauvignon Blanc Gran Reserva $12.99, This youngster is as
expected water white in color, Lovely grapefruit aromas followed by grapefruit flavors, well balanced but a slight harshness
on the finish 87 #2 2003 Cousino-Macul Finis Terrae $16.99, Cab./Merlot blend, Very dark color with blackberry aromas,
well structured but balance perhaps slightly sweet 88 #3 2004 Carmen Reserve $11.99 Carmenere/Cab. Sauv. blend, One very
bad bottle with strong acid flavor 50 the other closed in but balanced well 81 #4 2005 Terrazas de La Andes, 100%
Argentine Malbec $19.58, traces of a floral sweetness on the nose, well balanced, smooth tannins, needs about three years. I
have to agree with Wine Spectator who gave it a 88 #5 2004 Pisano Reserva Tannat $14.99 (Uruguay) dark color changing to
light at the rim, floral highlights on the nose but balance off, leaning to the acid side 74 #6 2005 Pisano Tannat/Merlot
blend $8.99, Another bad bottle one very SOUR 52 the other only marginally better 72
April 11th, '07 Australia and New Zealand Wines #1 2005 Spy Valley, Sauvignon Blanc, N.Z. $12.99, water white color,
light herbal nose, low acidity for a Sauv. Blanc, finished up, needs a little time to develop 88 #2 2001 Crossings,
Cab. Sauv. Reserve "Emily's Run" N.Z. $21.99, dark plum color, off aromas of must, slightly aciditic, tasted thin 79 #3 2002
d'Arenberg Cab. Sauv. "The High Trellis" $15.99, One bad bottle, Bottle #1 was made bad by chemical aromas and flavors,
66, Bottle #2 sweet syrup aroma and high sugar balance 80 #4 2004 Shingleback Shiraz $19.99, Another bad bottle
Bottle #1 (TCA) Cork Taint, killed aroma but not flavor 69 Bottle #2 dark solid color,varietal aroma with hints of violets,
well balanced, full bodied, long finish, needs more time but worth cellaring 90 #5 2004 d'Arenberg Shiraz/Viognier "The Laughing
Magpie" $24.99, dark colors, varietal aroma, well structured with hints of layers of flavor to come, cellar at least three more
years 91 #6 2004 Tir Na Nog, old vines Grenache $24.99, this wine smelled and tasted "HOT" due to it's 15.5% alcohol, it
also displayed a varietal aroma, strong flavors and finish, Wine Advocate rated this wine a 92 but since the hot alcohol taste
will never improve, I rate it a 82.
April 18th, '07 California Wines #1 2004 Silverado Vineyards Sauv. Blanc. $14.29, varietal aroma, tight balance
though light in body, no finish at all 87 #2 2004 River Road Vineyards, Chardonnay $18.99, one bad bottle, skunk aroma,
second bottle low in acid #1 45 #2 70 #3 2004 Clos du Bois Zinfandel $11.99, several garnet colors, varietal aroma
plus hint of rasberries, slightly high acidity, medium body and short finish. Drinking well now, not a keeper 85 #4 2003
Alexander Valley Vineyards, Merlot $16.99, very dark color, low level Cab. and fruit aromas. Extremly high acid, ruining all
other flavors 69 #5 2003 Truchard Pinot Noir $28.99, one light color, light pinot nose but everything about this wine was
light and thin (perhaps a wet vintage) 79 #6 2003 Artesa Cabernet Sauvignon $19.99, Best of the evening dark colors,
a pleasant cab. aroma with other floral things happening, well balanced, full bodied, soft tannins, finished up. Needs at least
two or three years cellaring 89
April 25th, '07 Blind Tasting #1 2004 Campo Viejo, Rioja Crianza 89 first time tasted 86 #2 2003
Alexander Valley Merlot 84 first time tasted (bad bottle) 69
#3 2005 Terrazas Malbec 79 first time tasted
88 #4 2004 Shingleback Shiraz 91 first time tasted (bad bottle) 69 #5 2003 Chateau Lamothe-Cissac
80 first time tasted 78 #6 d'Arenberg, The High Trellis Cab. Sauv. 65 first time tasted 66
May 2nd, '07 Champagne Night (Party, no notes taken)
Fall 2007 Semester.
September 26th., '07 Pinot Grigio / Pinot Gris Tasting #1 2004 Rocca Bernarda, Friuli, Italy $20.91. Pale straw color
with presence of tartaric acid crystals. Varietal aroma, well structured with medium body, short finish. (78) #2 2005 Vino Con Brio,
Lodi, Calif. $18.91. Water white color, closed in nose, wine out of balance, lacks acidity. Poor showing (68) #3 2005
Barth Rene, Bennwihr, Alsace $20.01. Deep golden color, looking mature. Varietal aroma with some citrus fruit and honey to it. Very full
bodied, balance, low in acidity, long finish. Popular with class. (83) #4 2004 Dopff & Irion, Riquewihr, Alsace $14.98.
Much lighter in color, (this wine will last) varietal nose plus hints of green apples, perfect balance, flavors develop at
mid-palate and wine finishes long. (88)
October 3rd, '07 Bordeaux Wines #1 2005 Chateau Coucheroy, Graves (Sauv. Blanc)$12.99 A very young water white color,
varietal aromas plus grass and grapefruit, crisp acidity at front palate, short finish (86) #2 2003 Chateau Tour de Boyrin,
Graves (Cab. Sauv.) $14.50 Clear, light color, aromas of plum and leather, good structure but lacking in flavor (77) #3
1995 Chateau Meyney, Saint Estephe $21.19 back in 1999 Dark brick in color, huge varietal nose, complex flavors at mid palate, including
licorice, plus soft tannins that suggest this wine will last another 5 yrs., long finish (90) #4 2003 Domain des Gourdins,
Saint Emilion $15.99 A real disappointment. Dark color, unpleasant off aromas, powerfull, rough tannins that dominated all levels of taste
(67) #5 2003 Chateau du Grand Carrety, Sauternes $17.99 Lovely pale golden color, aromas of apricot and honey, full bodied with
lingering flavors. A real buy. (87)
October 10th, '07 Burgundy Wines #1 2005 Domaine du Val Lamartin, St. Veran $12.99 Aromas of pear and peach lead off
this full bodied, well balanced Chard. (90) #2 2004 Chambolle Musigny, Les Caves de la Colombe $15 at auction, Young looking,
Pinot with cherry aromas, good structure but soft tannins suggest this wine won't be ready for another two years or so. (88)
#3 2003 Chorey-les-Beaune, "Les Beaumonts" $24.99, Varietal aroma, a well balanced wine to drink now. (87) #4
1999 Santenay by Louis Latour $16 in 2002, Starting to show age, browning colors, and tar aromas, slightly acid at mid pallet (81)
#5 2005 Morgon (Beaujolais) $12.99 Young purple color, gives way to one dimensional "fruitbomb" with lots of natural sugar. Drinking
well now but will last a few years more. (86)
October 17th, '07 Spain & Portugal Wines #1 NV Neblina, Vino Verde, Portugal $8.99, Living up to it's reputation as a "green"
wine, this had a grassey, Sauv. Blanc type of nose. Light bodied and acidic it was not a class favorite. Short finish (69),
#2 2006 Burgans Albarino, Rias Baixas $12.99, Pale straw color, fruity nose hinting of apricots, well balanced and medium body, short finish
(84), #3 2004 Solaz, Spain $7.49, Tempranillo aroma, low acidity with soft tannins. Fifteen second finish (79), #4 2004
Vina Regia, Douro Portugal $6.99, Dark plum color, merlot style aromas, slightly low acidity, fruit forward, drinking well now. Not a keeper
but a great deal now for everyday drinking. (84) #5 2001 Montecillo "Reserva", Rioja $16.99, Dark colors, varietal aroma
but slightly closed, good structure but strong harsh tannins. This baby needs much more time to develop. (82), #6 2000
Berberana, Vina Alarde "Gran Reserva", Rioja $19.99, Strong oak aromas with hint of vanilla, great structure and balance, full
bodied with layers of flavor. Drinking well now but can last for many years more. (89)
October 24th, '07 Italian Wines #1 2005 S. Orsola, Barbera d'Asti $6.99 Vinous aromas, slightly high acidity, one
dimensional wine with a 20 second finish (79) #2 2005 S. Orsola, Dolcetti d'Alba $8.99 Fruit aromas, slightly sweet but
overall good balance, full bodied, short finish (82) #3 2004 Masi "Campofiorin"- (Supervenetian) $13.99 Deep colors,
Blackberry fruit on nose, good structure with layers of flavor and soft tannins. Needs a few more years for perfection but
drinking well now. (90) #4 2006 Tenuta Di Trecciano, Chianti $9.99 Fruit forward and nothing at mid palate full bodied,
short finish. A simple "Pizza" wine but a good buy. (82) #5 2003 Poggio alle Sughere, Morellino di Scansano $16.99 Dark with three colors,
blackberry aromas, soft tannins but short on flavors. (79) #6 2001 Gattavecchi, Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano $24.99 Dark
colors, raspberry and blackberry aromas, a perfectly balanced wine with initial fruit flavor, followed by many more complex
flavors at mid palate. (95) #7 2006 Cusumano, Sicily Nero d'Avola $10.99 Although not high in alcohol it smelled "hot",
one dimensional, straight forward but with much harshness, even on the finish. More time will probably not smooth this wine out.
(74)
October 31st, '07 South American Wines #1 2005 Los Vascos, Cab. Sauv., Chile $8.79 Nice deep colors, varietal aromas
with traces of plum but then I tasted it. Very thin, high acid and slight bitterness (69) #2 2006 Pisano Cab. Sauv.,
Uruguay $10.99 Garnet color, varietal aroma with hints of tar and violets. Well balanced with smooth tannins but fruit forward
and short on finish. Still at this price a great buy. (86) #3 2005 Concha Y Toro, Carmenere, Chile $8.49 Dark color, flowery
aromas, very full bodied. One of the class favorites and another great buy. (87) #4 2005 Pascual Toso, Malbec "Reserve"
Argentina $17.99 Dark, inky, purple colors, sharp, cutting aromas, soft tannins but high acid, finished long but not worth the
extra money. (84) #5 2005 Montes, "Alpha" Syrah, Chile $17. Prune aromas, full bodied and balanced well. Showing a lot of
potential but need a few years to develop. "A keeper" (90) #6 2006 Pisano, Tannat, Uruguay $10.99 Very dark color and
mixed fruit aromas, huge body, soft tannins, good structure, finished very long. The best Pisano Tannat, I've tasted to date. (88)
November 7th, '07 Australia & New Zealand Wines #1 2007 Kim Crawford, Sauv. Blanc, N.Z. $11.99 Water white in color,
Varietal aroma plus typical gooseberry bouquet, clean crisp acidity but bitter at finish. (88) #2 2006 Casella "Mallee Point",
Chardonnay,SE Australia $5.99 Pale color with butter oak flavors also traces of vanilla, full bodied but poor structure and very
bitter at finish. (71) #3 2006 The Crossings, Chardonnay N.Z. $14.99 A light, slightly closed nose but with traces of peaches,
balance leaning toward acidity, mineral overtones (84) #4 2006 The Crossings, Pinot Noir $19.99 Multicolored, slight varietal
aroma, lean, one dimensional, slightly acid, short finish. (80) #5 2004 Shingleback Shiraz, McLaren Vale $19.99 Opaque in
color, Huge fruity nose, great balance with layers of flavor opening up at mid palate, very full bodied but faint trace of heat
from high alcohol. This wine keeps getting better every semester. (93) #6 (Two Vintages)2006 d'Arenberg "The Laughing Magpie"
Shiraz/Viognier $26.99 Dark color, fruity nose, very acid, fruit forward and slightly bitter. A disapointment after past tastings. (72)
#7 2005 d'Arenberg "The Laughing Magpie" Shiraz/Viognier $26.99 A much better sample. 15% alcohol but no trace of it in
the flavor. Great balance, full bodied, long finish (91) Same as last semester.
November 14th, '07 Wines of California #1 2006 River Road Vineyards, Sauv. Blanc $12.99 Russian River. Clear, water
white in color, soft hay aroma, slightly low acidity, a light weight wine, drinkable now. (84) #2 2005 Dry Creek Vineyard,
Chardonnay $15.99 Russian River. Pale golden color, butter oak aromas with trace of honeysuckle, full body with balance leaning
toward sweetness, short finish. Needs a few more years.(88) #3 2002 Ramspeck, Pinot Noir $16 in '05, North Coast, Garnet
color, varietal aroma with traces of leather, balance slightly acidic, round long finish. (85) #4 2005 Dry Creek Vineyard,
Zinfandel $15.99 Russian River. Dark colors, varietal aromas of Zin. plus the 15% Syrah, very full bodied, with layers of flavor
at mid palate, trace of alcoholic heat in it's long finish. (91) #5 2004 Geyser Peak Winery, Cab. Sauv. $14.99 Alexander
Valley. Dark colors, varietal aroma plus something else undefined, harsh tannins, short finish. (79) #6 2001 Marietta
Cellars, Petite Syrah $16 in '04 Sonoma. Inky dark color, Tons of "black fruit" aromas, black cherries, black current etc.. Well
balanced, full bodied and a very long finish. This wine will last another 10 yrs.. (94)
November 21st, '07 Blind Tasting. No notes taken. / Grand prize winner of tasting John Arters.
November 28th, '07 Champagne Night Party - No notes taken. Roederer Estate and Nicolas Feuillatte the clear class favorites.
Sprimg 2008 Semester.
February 27th, '08 Blind Sauvignon Blanc Tasting #1 2006 Chateau de la Vielle Tour, Bordeaux $10,Water white in
color, acidity softened by the Semillon 84 #2 2006 Kenwood, Sonoma $10, Water white, pronounced varietal aroma with slight
hints of oak, full bodied with a medium finish 90 #3 2006 Nobilo, Marlborough, New Zealand $10, Pale straw color, varietal
aroma plus citrus notes. 88 #4 2004 Les Deux Tours, Tours, Loire, France $16, pale straw color, light body with flavors
developing at mid palate. 87 All four wines could benefit from a couple more years ageing. The class favorites were #2 & #3.
March 5th, '08 Bordeaux #1 2005 Chateau Menaut, Pessac-Leognan, $12.99 Clear and pale straw in color. Clean varital aroma
with traces of citrus fruit. Medium body, well balanced with a fresh, "bright" flavor. Finished long. 89 #2 2006 Chateau de
Cornemps, AOC Bordeaux Rose, $9.99 Dark rose color with a aroma of sweetness and tar. Dry, balance ok but rustic barnyard flavors.
Not recommended. 71 #3 2003 Chateau Greysac, Medoc $16.99 Dark colors, Cab. varietal aromas with bramble, well balanced
but still a lot of strong tannins. This bottle needs another 3 to 5 years to reach it's potential. Short finish. 89
#4 2003 Chateau Haut Maillet, Pomerol $39.99 Deep red colors, varietal aroma plus hints of leather, slightly acid, a lighter body
than the Greysac, layered flavors with "black olives", med. finish. 85 #5 2005 Chateau du Grand Carretey, Sauternes,
$17.99 Lovely golden honey color. Aromas laid back. Well balanced, full bodied with a 45 second finish. 91
March 12th, '08 Burgundy #1 2001 Chateau Fuisse, St.Veran, Macon $3.99+tax Straw color, varietal nose, dry, good balance, medium
body, layers of flavors 90 A great buy. #2 2005 Domaine des Buyats, Regnie Beaujolais $12.99 Plum colored, Gamay nose
mixed with other fruit, medium full body, soft tannins, deep flavors at mid palate. Needs another two years ageing. 89 #3 2005
Domaine Des Michelons, Moulin-A-Vent Beaujolais $16.99 Much darker than previous wine, full bodied, slightly acid, did not have the
flavors or tannins of the Regnie. 82 #4 2004 Chambole Musigny, Cote de Nuits, Caves de la Colombe $20, Light color of old
brick, thin, watery tasting, slightly tannic, and that was the good bottle 69 NOT recommended. #5 Pommard, Cote de Beaune, Caves
de la Colombe $20, Slightly darker than the Chambole Musigny, varietal aromas mixed with barnyard aromas, again thin and slightly
acid. Also we had another bad bottle. 72
March 19th, '08 Spain & Portugal #1 2006 Burgans Albarino $12.99, Rias Baixas, Clear, water white in color, Citrus aromas,
fresh, medium bodied with great balance. Will peak in two years. 90 #2 2004 Vila Regia, Douro $6.99, Multi colored, Nice
black cherry aroma, medium bodied, great fruit forward and soft tannins. Finished short. 88 #3 2002 Post Scriptum de Chryseia,
Douro $12, Darker color than previous wine, Deeper nose without the fruit, slightly acid in balance, tasting slightly acid at
mid palate. 78 #4 2005 Tres Ojos, Calatyud $7.99, Garnet in color, Grenache varietal aromas, good structure with slight
firm tannins, traces of heat from the high alcohol (14.5%), 30 second finish. 88 #5 2003 Monticello Crianza, Rioja $8.99, Dark
garnet color, varietal aroma plus traces of tar and oak, well balanced, fruit forward. 87 #6 2001 Monticello Reserva, Rioja
$12.99, Multicolored, deep fruit and oak on nose, balanced well but with a rasping dryness, finished well. 86
March 26th, '08 Italy #1 2004 Bootleg Chianti $8.55, Multi colored with fruity nose, dry with soft tannins, medium
bodied, fruit forward, well structured. Needs a few more years. 86 #2 2005 Ruffino Aziano Chianti Classico $9.99,
Much lighter in color than the Bootleg, varietal aroma plus oak, balance slightly aciditic, med. body with long finish. Drink
now. 82 #3 2006 Caleo (Nero d'Avola) Sicily $7.99, Sharp nose, well balanced with layers of fruit flavors, long
finish. A class favorite. 91 #4 2005 Tenuta Del Portale "Starsa" (Aglianico/Basilicata) $8.55, Dark plum color,
nose slightly closed, perfect balance, medium body, fruit flavors at first and more at mid palate, medium finish. Enjoy now.
88 #5 2001 Terre Di Orazio (Aglianico del Vulture) $19.99, Dark at center to light brick color, varietal aroma
plus smokey undertones, good balance, still some tannins left, flavors of oak and tar. (One bad bottle. Oxidized.) 81
#6 2004 Rivata Barbaresco $14.99, Color looked like a light Burgundy, nebbiolo nose but not overpowering, good balance, full
bodied with strong pronounced flavors, long finish. 91 #7 2003 Sartori di Verona (Amarone) $28.99, Deep colors,
aromas that keep drawing you back, balance on sweet side as expected, super full bodied, sweet fruit flavors, med. finish. 88
April 2nd, '08 South America #1 2004 Santa Ana (Chardonnay) Argentina $3.99, Pale straw color, nose closed and neutral
at first but opened a little as the wine warmed up, very dry with various citrus flavors. A great buy. 82 #2 2006
Casillero del Diablo (Carmenere)Concha Y Toro, Rapel Valley, Chile $8.49, Dark plum color, Cab. variety nose with traces of tar,
good balance with fruit forward with tannic burn at mid palate which lasted through finish. 81 #3 2002 Teranyo,
(Carmenere)Concha Y Torro (bought at auction for $10.61 but retails for $25), Inky like color, very long legs (Alcohol 14.8%),
aromas of Merlot variety, current fruit plus trace smell of leather, perfect balance for a huge, full bodied wine with layers
of fruit and a very long finish. Hands down class favorite. 93 #4 2006 "Misterio" Finca Flichman (Malbec)
Mendoza, Argentina $7.99, Closed nose, good structure with soft tannins, medium finish. 81 #5 2006 "Cisplatino"
Pisano Family, Uruguay $8.99,(Tannat/Merlot) Red brick color, blackberry fruit on nose, wine tasted thin and balance leaned toward acid.
(We had 1 bad bottle) 69 #6 2006 "RPF" Pisano Family Cabernet Sauvignon, Uruguay $10.99, Classic color of a young cab., varietal aroma
plus lead pencil aromas, again wine tasted thin, watery but also was loaded with harsh tannins, fruit flavors drying at mid palate,
medium finish. 78
April 9th, '08 Australia & New Zealand Sorry, no tasting notes due to a bad cold. #1 2006 Nobilo "Icon" (Sauv. Blanc) $16.99
Marlborough, N.Z. The class thought that the Nobilo from the first night, at $8 was just as good. #2 2004 Amisfield (Pinot Noir)
Central Otago, N.Z. $17, Pretty fair pinot but we had one bad bottle. #3 2001 Palandri Vineyards (Cab. Sauv.) Western Australia,
closeout price of $3.99+tax, Well structured and at that price a "best buy". Drink now. #4 2005 Rosemont (70% Cab. Sauv. + 30% Merlot)
S.E. Australia $9.99, A little too much sugar left in the blend, probably to hide defects in the wine. #5 2005 d'Arenberg
"The Stump Jump" (southern Rhone blend) $9.99 Distinct Grenache nose, medium body, full flavored. A good buy for short term drinking.
#6 2004 Shingleback (100% Shiraz) McLaren Vale, S. Australia $19.99, A very good full bodied shiraz with layers of flavor but
the heat from the 14.5% alcohol comes through to the finish.
April 16th, '08 California Sorry, still have bad cold. Tasting comments are from class. #1 2006 Kenwood Vineyards
(Sauv. Blanc) Sonoma *8.99, Clear, pale golden color, varietal aroma plus hints of grapefruit, grapefruit flavors continue into this
medium bodied wine. #2 2005 Martin Ray (Chardonnay) Russian River $16.99, Pale straw color, well balanced, medium body
with traces of vanilla and oak on flavor. #3 2005 Silverado Vineyards (Sangiovese) Napa $17.99, Well balanced with true
varietal flavors and 30 second finish. But is it worth the price tag? #4 2005 Steltzner (Claret) Napa $17.99, Dark plum
colors, pronounced varietal aroma plus a little floral thing on the nose. Full bodied, with layers of flavor, perhaps a slight
trace of heat from the 14.2% alcohol. Class Favorite #5 2005 Ravenswood Winery (Zinfandel) Napa $13.99, Red brick color,
Typical blackberry & bramble aromas but with a smell of the heat to follow. The creamy, fruity flavor was overwhelmed by the heat
from this 15% Zin. &bvsp; #6 2006 Montoya (Petite Sirah) Paso Robles $12.99 As expected rich and full bodied but the balance
sort of leaned a little to much to the sweet side.
April 23rd, '08 Blind Tasting (No tasting notes taken) Highest scoring new student, Derik Frymire.
April 30th, '08 Champagne (No notes taken) Class favorites: Heidsieck & Co. Monopole, and Roederer Estate
Fall 2008 Semester,
Sep. 17th, '08 Germany - #1 2005 Diedsheimer Nonnenstuck, Riesling, Kabinett, Trocken, Pale straw color, varietal
aromas plus hint of green apple, dry but well balanced, finished long. $15 (92) #2 2006 Gau-Bishofsheimer Kellersberg,
Riesling, Kabinett, Trocken, $9.62 Very light in color, lighter body, balance leaning toward acid side. This wine needs more
time to develop. (82) #3 2006 Selzer Osterberg, Riesling, Auslese $9.62 Again very light in color, rich, fullbodied
flavors, finished well. Needs 2 or 3 years in bottle. #4 2006 Nierstiner Kirchplatte, Kerner, Auslese $9.62
Pale straw color, varietal aroma plus vanilla, huge honey and peach flavors. Enjoy now or for the next ten years. (89)
The class experimented with trying spicy, pepper cheese with sweet "Auslese" wines. The combination worked very well together.
Sep. 24th, '08 Bordeaux - #1, 2005 Ch. Menaut, Pessac Leognan, Sauv. Blanc $12.99, Clear with varietal nose, acidic,
light body, finished short (80) #2, 2006 Ch. Bonnet, Entre Deux Mers, Sauv./ Semillon $13.99, Pale straw color, aromas
of Semillon plus hint of vanilla, fine balance and much more body than number one. (86) #3, 2003 Ch. Beaulieu, Comtes de Tastes,
Cotes de Castillon, $14, Aromas of merlot, dark cherry and raspberry. Sweet, mild tannins. Medium body with mid palate flavors, short finish. (87)
#4, 2003 Ch. de Laussac, Cotes de Castillon, $14, I had "off" bottle. Much lighter in color with musty and sulphur aromas. (67)
the other bottles did much better. (86) #5, 2005 Ch. La Tonnelle, Haut Medoc, $16.99, Dark plumb colors. Sweet cherry
aromas but balance slightly acidic. High amounts of harsh tannins. (76) #6, 2005 Ch. Bertinat Lartigue, Saint Emilion,
$17.99, Colors ranged from deep red to garnet. Varietal aromas plus more of the sweet cherry smells. Good structure, balance
and body. Layers of flavor and mild tannins with medium finish. (90)
Oct. 1st, '08 Rhone - #1, 2003 Laurus "White" Chateauneuf-du-Pape $18.17+tax Pale straw color, white grenache varietal
nose plus pear and hint of vanilla, slightly high in acid, fresh and crisp. (85) #2, 2003 Laurus "White" Hermitage $26.33+tax
Deeper golden color, perfectly balanced, full body, apricot flavors, finished long. (91) #3, 2004 Delas Freres, Cotes de Ventoux
$9 Light brick color, varietal aroma, slightly acid with harsh tannins. (81) #4, 2001 Laurus, "Rasteau" Cotes du Rhone $14+tax
Dark colors, initial must on nose but that blew off, well balanced, finished short. (85) #5, 2003 M. Chapoutier "La Bernadine"
Chateauneuf- du Pape $31, Light garnet color, subtle floral bouquet, full bodied, finished well. (87) #6, 2003 Laurus Hermitage
$26.33+tax, Medium dark colors, huge varietal nose, full bodied, slightly sweet balance, a 30+ second finish. A great wine to
drink right now but perhaps not for long time cellaring. (93) #7, 2006 Laurus, Muscat de Beaumes de Venise $12.75+tax (500 ml bottle)
Golden color, honeysuckle nose with aromas and flavors of orange zest. A rather average dessert wine. (84)
Oct. 15th, '08 Spain & Portugal - #1, 2007 Aveleda, Vinho Verde, Portugal $8.99, Water white in color, lovely citrus
and pear aromas, fresh crisp acidity, plus a 25 second finish. (The class enjoyed this one.) (90) #2, 2007 Burgans,
Albarino, Rias Baixas, Spain $14.99, Pale straw color, Lacking acidity. Normally a great wine but evidently not in 2007
(82) #3, 2005 Vila Regia, Douro, Portugal $7.99, A gamay, plum color, nose somewhat closed but traces of cedar and vanilla,
soft tannins makes it drinkable now. A rather average everyday table wine but under ten bucks. (84) #4, 2001 Casa Ferreirinha
"Esteva", Douro, Portugal $4.27, I guess you get what you pay for. The wine was cloudy, off aromas, reminded me of shoe polish,
low acidity and very low flavors. Do not attemt this at home. (65) #5, 2001 Castillo D Clavijo, Rioja Reserva, $14.99,
Brick color, nose somewhat subdued but showing promise, perfect structure and balance, layers of flavors, zero tannins, 20 second finish.
Drinking very well right now. Do not lay this one away. (93) #6, 2001 Castillo D Clavijo, Rioja Gran Reserva $19.99,
A slightly lighter brick color, a fantastic bouquet of aromas but lacking in flavor, also slightly acid, 10 second finish. Everyone
preferred the Reserva over the Gran Reserva. (89) #7, 2000 Ramos Pinto, "Vintage Port" ($40 at auction $70 retail), Color
opaque, nose not yet developed, massive body, seamless flavors and a finish that goes on forever. Lay this baby down for another
twenty years. (94)
Oct. 22nd, '08 Italy - #1, 2008 Bollini, Pinot Grigio, Trentino $3.20, Very pale straw in color, somewhat closed nose,
lacking acidity but this medium bodied wine had some interesting flavors. A exceptional buy. (83) #2, Domenico Clerico "Trevigne",
Barbera D'Alba $15, garnet colors, pronounced vareital noe, strong coarse tannins, full bodied with lasting flavors. This wine
would benefit from another few years in the bottle. (86) #3, 2005 Campolieti Valpolicella, Classico Ripasso $12, Light brick in
color, ripe fruit and floral aromas, well balanced, fruity flavors, finished short. Not a keeper but drinking very well now. (89)
#4, 2005 Gattavecchi, Vino Noble Di Montepulcian $19.99, Medium dark colors, big Sangiovese nose, plus traces of blackberry, layers
of flavor nad finished long. (91) #5 2005 Tenuto Del Portale "Starsa", Basilicata $11.99, Dark brick color, pronouced varietal aroma,
soft tannins with a slight trace of bitterness, very long finish. (88) #6, 2004 Rivata, Barbaresco, Piedmont $16.99, Light
color, varietal aroma plus an earthy "forest floor" aroma, well structured with a slight sweetness, medium finish. Again, not a
keeper but drinking well now, at a great price. (93) #7, 2003 Bolla, Amarone $35, Medium dark color, huge bouquet of
aromas, ranging from floral to vegetal, balance good but just a trace of acidity, finished very long. A class favorite. Drinking
well now and probably will for another 5 or 6 years. (94)
Oct. 29th, '08 South America - #1, 2007 Montes, Sauv. Blanc, Chile $15.99, Water white color, citrus, grapfruit nose, good
balance, layered flavors, medium finish. (89) #2, 2005 Sol Alto, Cab. Sauv., Argentina $5.29, Brick color, closed nose,
low acidity, off petrol flavors. (78) #3, 2006 BrisAndes, Cab. Sauv., Chile $9.99, Dark plum color, dark fruit aromas,
slightly high acidity, soft tannins, short finish with trace of bitterness. (84) #4, 2007 Concho Y Toro, "Casillero del Diablo",
Carmenere, Chile, $8.49, Opaque in color, cab., varietal nose, soft tannins, good balance, long finish. (91) #5, 2007 Pascual
Toso, Malbec, Argentina $10.79, Dark plum colors, strong Cab., varietal nose, good structure and balance, seamless flavors, long
finish. A class favorite. 90) #6, 2007 Pisano Reserve, Tannet, Uruguay $12.99, Very dark color, massive aromas, high
acid level, coarse tannins, off flavors of burnt tea possibly. (74) #7, 2005 Montes, Syrah, Chile $18, Deep garnet
colors, varietal aroma plus a sweet honeysuckle nose, great balance, full bodied, smooth mild flavors through mid palate.
(93)
Nov. 5th, '08 Australia & New Zealand - #1, 2007 Spy Valley, Sauv. Blanc, Marlborough N.Z. $15.49, Water white in color,
great citrus bouquet, flavors of grapefruit and lime, finished long. (91) #2, 2004 Heath "Southern Roo", Chardonnay /
Viognier, Barossa Valley, South Australia $7.50, Pale straw color, Viognier varietal aroma, well balanced, nothing outstanding.
(85) #3, 2007 The Crossings, Pinot Noir, Marlborough, N.Z. $19.99, Light violet color, small varietal aroma, sharp
tannins, balance leaning towards sweet side. Needs a few years. (85) #4 2001 Palandri, Cab. Sauv., Western Australia,
$5.34, (One bottle was off.) Dark colors, slight varietal aroma, balanced well but body light, tasted thin. (83) #5 2005
Rosemont, Shiraz / Grenache, S.E. Australia $9.79, Dark garnet color, Grenache aroma, slightly acid, finished short. (76)
#7 2004 Shingleback, Shiraz, McLaren Vale, South Australia $19.99, Inky plum color, massive sweet aromas of Syrah and wood,
very full body, great structure and balance, finished very long. (The class favorite.) (93)
Nov. 19th, '08 California & Northwest - #1, 2006 Rodney Strong, "Charlette's Home", Sauvignon Blanc, Alexander Valley $12.99,
Water white in color, subtle grassey, herbal varietal aromas. Low in acidity and full bodied, finishing with a mineral and
metallic aftertaste. Not your typical Sauv. Blanc. (84) #2, 2005 Dry Creek Vineyards, Chardonnay, Russian River
Valley $15.99. Very pale straw color, varietal and vanilla aromas, low acidity, slightly sweet, full bodied with the vanilla
flavors coming out at mid palate and at the finish. (83) #3, 2007 Williamette Valley Vineyards, Oregon, Pinot Noir,
$19.99. A strange, light pinkish color, nose completely closed, high acidity with soft tannins, light weight, tasting thin and
mercifully a short finish. (78) #4, 2004 Gallo Family, Sonoma, Zinfandel $11.99. Garnet in color, deep bramble
and varietal aromas, good structure and well balanced, medium full body, sweet tannins and a 20 second finish. (89)
#5, 2005 Gundlach Bundschu, Rhinefarm Vineyard, Sonoma, Mountain Cuvee (71% Merlot) $12.99. Dark plum color, aromas of mixed
red fruits, plus violets, low acidity with some coarse tannic acid. This wine needs at least 2 or 3 years in the bottle. (86)
#6, 2005 Estancia "Meritage", Paso Robles $23.99. Very dark colors, Cab. nose plus traces of oak, good structure
and balance, smooth tannins, seamless flavors, long finish. Drinking well now but will only improve over the next 5 years. (93)
Dec. 3rd, '08 Blind Tasting: No notes taken. Grand prize winner, Ray Fratti.
Dec. 17th, '08 Champagne Night (No tasting notes) The class ranked their favorites in this order. #1, Heidsieck & Co.
Monopole, #2, Nicolas Feuillatte, #3, Roederer Estate, #4, Chandon Reserve, #5, "J", #6, Chandon Blanc de Noirs, #7, Chandon Brut Classic,
#8, Don Conde Cava
2009 Spring Semester,
Feb. 25th, '09 1st. Night, White wines of Spring - #1, 2004 Domaines Schlumberger Les Princes Abbes, Pinot Blanc, Alsace $9.75. Clear, pale
straw color, mild distinct aromas, good structure and balance, dry, flavors of lime, pineapple and grapefruit,medium body and finish. (90), #2, 2004 Baron
Philippe Rothschild, D'Oc, Chardonnay $8. Although these wines were very good last spring, they now are showing signs of oxidation.
Golden color, off aromas, drinkable but poor. (68) #3, 2004 Chateau de Campuget, Costieres de Nims, Rhone blend $7.48.
Straw color, strong aromas of the Marsanne grape plus floral aromas, slightly high in acid but a very long finish. Drinking well now.
(89) #4, 2003 Falstaff, Alsace, Gewurztraminer $5.34 Pronounced varietal aroma, slightly acidic, medium full body, many
spicy flavors that lasted. Drinking well now. (88) #5, 2006 Niersteiner Kirchplatte, Rheinhessen, Riesling Auslese,
$9.62 A good buy. Water white in color, green apple aromas, good structure, naturally sweet, full and lasting. This wine will be great
in a few years. Lay away for two years at least. (92 NOTE: Wines 4 & 5 were tasted with hot pepper cheese. The spicy Gewurztraminer
made the cheese even hotter. The sweeet Riesling, balanced well with the hot cheese. The cheese did not taste as hot and the
wine did not taste as sweet.
March 4th, '09 Wines of Bordeaux - #1, 2007 Ch. Guibon, Entre Deux Mers, Semillon/Sauv. Blanc $11.99. Water white
color, varietal aroma still slightly closed, fresh acidity with mineral flavors, med. finish. (86) #2, 2006
Ch. Bel Air, Lussac St. Emiliom $18.99. Plum color, sweet merlot aroma, thin, watery, acidic effort. Not recomended. (59)
#3, 2005 Ch. Tour Canon, Fronsac $17.99. Very dark in color, closed nose, medium tannins for a '05, this wine needs a few
years to develop. (84) #4, 2003, Ch. Larose Trintaudon, Haut Medoc $16.99. Colors ranging from dark brick to garnet,
nose still closed, high in tannins, slightly high in acid, otherwise drinking well. (79) #5, 2005, Ch. Le Grands Marechaux,
Cotes de Blaye $18.50. Aromas open up in the glass, fruit flavors at first changing at mid palet, med. finish. with the absence
of tannins, this wine is drinking fine right now but not suitable for long term ageing. Who cares, drink it now. (85)
#6, 2005, Ch. De Rochemorin, Pessac Leognan $29.99. Dark brick in color, varietal cab. aroma plus a bouquet of dark cherries
and other dark fruits. Perfect balance and structure with long finish. Enjoy now and for the next 6 or 8 years. (93)
March 18th, '09 Wines of Italy - #1, 1998 Fattoria di Montechiari, Tuscany, Pinot Nero $22.50. Mature looking color,
Red fruit nose, black cherry, balance was slightly acid, harsh tannins that stayed right through the finish. (82)
#2,
NV Rocca Felice, Dolcetto d'Alba $13.99. Young purple color, fruity nose, medium body with good structure, finished short. (84)
#3, 2006 S. Orsola, Barbera d'Asti, Piedmont $.99. A young looking wine with good balance and medium body, one dimensional wine
for enjoying in the short term. (85) #4, 2005 Mazzoni, Chianti $12.50. Vinious aroma but not varietal, balance slightly
sweet, fruit forward flavors, medium body. Enjoy now. (87) #5, 2006 Tenuta Del Portale, "Starza", Basilicata, Aglianico
$11.99. Dark colors, nose somewhat subdued, flavors open up at mid palate, soft tannins that are going to require a few years
ageing. (89) #6, 2007 Caleo, Sicily, Nero D'Avola $7.99. A well structured wine to enjoy now or hold a few years. Dollar
for dollar, the class favorite. (90) #7, 2003 Zenato, Amarone, Venato $51.50. Dark, brooding colors, aromas of deep fruit,
massive body, balance slightly sweet, seamless flavors. This wine would have rated higher if it were not for the burning heat
sensation caused by the 16.5% alcohol. (92) #8, BONUS BOTTLE 1975 Cerreto, Dolcetto d'Alba. Garnet Brown color,
oxidized with off (barnyard) aromas. After several minutes in the glass huge changes took place. Off aromas faded and were replaced
with light vinous aromas. Flavors developed and this frail old wine was again drinkable. The wine was obviously at least a decade
past it's prime but a enjoyable experiment. (78)
March 25th, '09 Wines of Spain and Portugal - #1, NV Aveleda Fonte, Vinho Verde, Portugal $8.99. Water white in color,
aromas of peaches and honeysuckle, good balance with fresh acidity and medium long finish. A class favorite. (89) #2,
2007 Burgans, Rias Baixas, Albarino $14.99. Very pale straw color, aromas of grapefruit and pineapple, structured well, short finish.
Another class favorite. (90) #3, 2005 Aspaldi, Rioja Crianza $12.99. Dark ruby color, mixed dark fruit aromas, good balance,
still very tannic, a one dimensional wine that needs at least two years aging. (86) #4, 2004 Berberana, Rioja, Reserva $14.99.
Colors of dark ruby and plum, varietal aroma plus blackberry and hint of mint, balanced well with soft tannins, dry fruit flavors
opening up at mid palate. (92) #5, 2004 Embruix de Vall Llach, Priorat $9.53. Very dark color, nose a little closed but
with traces of Syrah and blackberries, massive body, huge fruit forward flavors, Strong tannins. Needs time. (88) #6, 2007 Tres Picos,
Borsao $16.99. Purple color, aromas of dark fruit, possibly slightly acidic, soft tannins and nice fruit flavors, finished long.
Needs three or four years. (88) #7, 2003 Delaforce Vintage Port $55. Dark purple black with purple rim, floral aromas
plus blackcurrent and plum, massive body, flavors developing at mid palate and a 60 second finish. Drink or hold 20 years. (96)
#8, BONUS BOTTLE 1975, Bodegas Olara Cerro Anon, Rioja Gran Reserva. Very pale old brick color, at first the wines nose
was closed, light in body, although the wine was long over the hill it was not totally oxidized, finished on a sour note. Later after half the
people had left we tried it again. The nose had opened up slightly with a vinous aroma, the taste also improved marginally. (74)
April 1st, '09 Wines of the Southern Rhone - #1, 2004 Chateau de Campuget, Costieres de Nims $6.99+tax. Straw color,
varietal aroma plus lemon and lemon zest aromas. Slightly high in acid but still drinking well now. (89) #2, 2004 Les Abeilles
(Blanc) Cotes du Rhone $8.95+tax. Pale straw color, traces of pear and vanilla on the nose, poor balance with high acid.(78)
#3, 2007 "Parallele 45" (Rose), Cotes du Rhone $8.98. Pale salmon color, traces of melon on nose, slightly high in acid but crisp
and fresh. Not popular with the class. (82) #4, 2006 Les Abeilles, Cotes du Rhone $8.99+tax. Dark purple color, Grenache
varital aroma with slight floral scent. High in acid with soft tannins, very short finish. Wine Spectator rated this (88). Sorry. (77) #5, 2006 J. Vidal-Fleury,
Cotes du Rhone, $8.98+tax. Purple color in center changing to dark brick at rim. Grenache variety aroma plus dark berry scents,
Very slightly high in acid with drying tannins, right through finish. Good structure and balance with medium finish. (89)
#6, 2005 Domaine La Bouissere, "La Ponche", Vacqueyras $20. Dark purple color, loads of dark fruit on the nose, perfect balance
with dry tannins, full fruit flavors, extremly long finish. Class favorite. (93) #7, 2003 La Bernardine, Chateauneuf-du-Pape,
M. Chapoutier $40. (The class had one bad bottle.) Color, three shades of old brick, aromas of Syrah overpowered the Grenache, fruit
flavors developed at mid palate but the fell off right through the short finish. A bit of a disappointment. (84) Spectator
gave it a (89)
April 15th, '09 Wines of South America - #1, 2007 Montes (Classic) Chardonnay, Curico Valley, Chile $9.99. Water white in
color, lovely citrus aromas with pear dominating. The slightly high acidity accounted for the crisp freshness, flavors lingered.
Good now, better in two years. (88) #2, 2007 Montes, Pinot Noir, Casablanca $13.99. Light plum color, vinous aroma but not
varietal, thin tasting, light body with biting tannins. (76) #3, 2007 Pascual Toso, 100% Cab. Sauv., Mendoza, Argentina $10.99.
Young looking, dark purple color, cabernet smell but with traces of pine or cedar. Full bodied, with soft tannins flavors evolving
at mid palate, finished short. Good now, needs several years. Great value. (90) #4, 2007 Natura (Organic) Carmenere, Colchauga, Chile
$9.99. Inky dark color, somewhat closed at first, then huge aromas of black current. Very full bodied and tannic. This baby needs
at least 5 years aging but the reward might be worth the wait. Great potential and value. (93) #5, 2007 Montes (Alpha)
(Cab. Sauv./Carmenere), Casablanca, Chile $13.99. Garnet color, Cab., plus dark fruit aromas. Medium body with good balance,
soft tannins, traces of alcohol through finish. (87) #6, 2007 Bodegas Septima, 100% Malbec, Mendoza Argentina $9.99.
Dark garnet color, cab. style nose with oak, vanilla and leather. Medium body with balance leaning toward acid side a little,
soft tannins and flavors developing. Like the rest it needs some time but a great value. (88) #7, 2005 Montes, (Alpha)
Syrah, Colchagua, Chile $20. Light garnet color, dark fruit aromas with blackberry dominate. Perfect balance and structure,
medium bodied with silky texture. Drinking great now. Wine is in it's prime. (92)
April 22nd, '09 Wines of Australia & New Zealand - #1, 2008 Cottesbrooke, Sauv. Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $11.99. Water
white in color, aromas of grapefruit and lemon zest, light body, slightly high acidity. Needs time. (84) #2, 2007 Monkey Bay, Sauv.
Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $8.99. Pale straw color, aromas of mandaran orange, extremly dry with long finish. Drinkable now. (87)
#3, 2006 Rosemont, Pinot Grigio, S.E. Australia $7.99. Pale straw color, vinous aromas, good balance and crisp acidity. Enjoy
now. (87) #4, 2007 Penfold's, Rawson's Retreat, Shiraz / Cab.,S.E. Australia $6.49. Colors ranging from Garnet to ruby,
Shiraz varietal aroma, high acidity with harsh tannins. Probably never going to amount to much. (76) #5, 2007 Penfold's,
Koonunga Hill, Shiraz / Cab. Sauv., South Australia $7.99. Very dark colors, Shiraz varietal aroma, well balanced, medium body,
soft but firm tannins, finished short. Needs a couple years. (86) #6, 2004 "Screwed", Shiraz/Cab./Tempranillo, McLaren
Vale $6.96 (Auction Price). We had one bad bottle. Dark brick color, many vinous aromas, balance, slightly high in acidity,
drinking well now but not for laying away in cellar. (84) #7, 2005 Shingleback, 100% Shiraz, McLaren Vale, $19.99. Inky
dark colors, huge dark fruit aromas, massive body packed with jammy fruit flavors and long finish. Enjoy now or over the next
five years. (91)
April 29th, '09 Wines of California - #1, 2002 Beaulieu Vineyards, North Coast, Chardonnay $11.28. (One very bad bottle)
Straw color, oak and vanilla aromas, slightly oxidized and tasting very dry. A poor wine. (68) #2 2007 Caymus "Conundrum",
Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, (White Blend) $21.99. Pale straw color, white peach and floral aromas, crisp yet silky
texture, the flavors of Viognier show up at mid palate. A great effort. (92) #3, 2004 Bradford Mountain, Grist Vineyard,
Dry Creek Valley, Zinfandel $23.50. Dark brick color, red berry aromas but black fruit flavors, good structure and balance, soft
tannins, plus a 30 second finish. (89) #4, 2000 Rutherford Hill, Napa Valley, Merlot $16. Brick color, varietal aroma,
full bodied, soft and mellow but not outstanding. (84) #5, 2006 "L de Lyeth", Sonoma County, Cab. Sauv. $11.99. Garnet
color, vinous nose, tasted "green", thin with harsh tannins, a finishing taste of high acidity. Not a good effort. (76)
#6, 2006 Lyeth Meritage, Sonoma County, $14.99. Garnet color, varietal plus black cherry aromas, good balance, full bodied with
dark fruit flavors, finished well. Probably better in a few years. (90) The class favorites were the Conundrum, the
Bradford Mountain Zin and the Lyeth Meritage.
May 6th, '09 Blind Tasting - To be tasted in any order. 2005 Mazzoni Chianti, 2004 Embruix, Priorat, 2007 Bodegas Septima,
Malbec, 2007 Pascaul Toso,Cab. Sauv., 2007 Penfolds Rawson's Retreat, 2006 Lyeth Meritage, 2004 Screwed, McLaren Vale
May 20th, '09 Champagne Night - (No tasting notes) The class ranked their favorites in this order: 1, Domaine Chandon,
Blanc de Noirs 2, Robert Moncuit, Blanc de Blancs 3, Montaudon 4, Roederer Estate 4, Domaine Chandon Brut Classic 5, Marques de Monistrol,
Cava 6, Domaine Chandon Extra Dry 7, Silverwing
2009 Fall Semester,
Sept. 30th, '09 Austrian & Germany Night #1, 2006 Velt1, Grunner Veltliner, Burgenland, Austria $12. Clear, very pale
straw color, Nose closed w/ melon aromas, light body, Needs 2 years to develop. (84) #2, 2005 Laurenz V. "Charming", Grunner
Veltliner, Kamptal Austria $16. Light straw color, Varietal aroma plus many fruit aromas melon, mango, etc., good balance, possibly
leaning towards the sweet side, full bodied, finished well, still needs time. (88) #3, 2005 Deidesheimer Nonnenstuck,
Riesling, Kabinett, Trocken, Pfalz, Germany. $12.50. Mature color and drinking well now, green apples on the nose, medium body,
well balanced, finished short. (89) #4, 2005 Gunderloch Rothenberg, Riesling, Auslese, Rheinhessen, Germany $18. Deep
golden color, varietal aroma plus apple and pear aromas, luscious full bodied flavors up front and at mid palate, 30 second finish.
(92) #5, 2006 Kartauserhof, Zweigelt, Wachau, Austria $15.50. A very young plum colored wine, simple and straightforward.
mixed red fruit aromas, medium body, finished short,very much like a Beaujolais. (80)
Oct. 7th, '09 Bordeaux Night #1, 2008 Ch. Guibon, Entre Deux Mers, $12.99. Very pale color, the nose had traces of pear,
green apple and honey suckle, Semillon based with good balance, finished short but this wine shows promise. (86) #2,
2008 Ch. Haut Guillebot, Entre Deux Mers, $9.99. This wine was Sauvagnon Blanc based, water white in color, simple straight forward
flavors, too high in acid, short finish. (80) #3, 2003 Clos L'Eglise, Cotes de Castillon, ws-88, $21. Showing 4 hues of color
from ruby to brick, varietal aromas, medium body, flavors up front and at mid palate, medium finish. Probably reaching it's peak.
(91) #4, 2005 Ch. Les Reuilles, Bordeaux, $10, 75% Cab. 25% Merlot. Slight varietal aroma, straight forward flavor. Although a 2005,
there was not a trace of tannin, finish mercifully short. (78) #5, 2005 Ch. Larquey, Bordeaux, $10, 95% Merlot 5% Cab.,
Again a straight forward wine, with a singular flavor, medium to full body, tasted "flabby", needed more acidity. (76)
#6, 2007 Ch. Belingard, Bergerac, $9.99, 50% Cab., 50% Merlot. Garnet color, black current and spices on the nose, medium to light
body, well balanced but only the cabernet flavor came through,15 second finish. (86) Extra Special Bottle - 1986
Chateau Climens, Barsac - Sauternes, Todays cost $200, back in 1997 $35. A beautiful golden color, aromas of honey and spices,
massive body but well structured and balanced, layer after layer of flavors kept unfolding seamlessly, possibly the longest
finish I have ever encountered. A great wine at it's peak. (97)
Oct. 14th, '09 Rhone Night #1, 2005 Reserve Perrin, Cotes Du Rhone, $10.69. Garnet in color, vinous aroma, high acid,
medium body, simple, straight forward wine, rustic. (79) #2, 2007 La Vielle Ferme, Cotes Du Ventoux, $7.99. Plum colored,
much cherry, raspberry, jammy fruit on the nose and in the flavors, very short finish. A great bargin. (86) #3, 2006
Belleruche, Cotes Du Rhone, $12.99. Dark red color, varietal (Grenache) aroma, high in acid, harsh tannins, flavors were low key
but slightly hot with alcohol taste, right through finish. (80) #4, 2004 Eddie Feraud, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, $30. Multi
colored red hues, nose somewhat closed, well structured and balanced, soft tannins, medium body, more flavors at mid palate, at
least a 30 second finish. (88) #5, 2006 Cave de Tain, Crozes Hermitage, $14.99. Dark plum color, syrah aroma plus leather aroma,
very well balanced, dark fruit flavors that stay with you right through the finish. Not for long time cellaring, drinking well now.
Another surprise bargain. (92) #6, 2003 Laurus, Hermitage, $65 (Todays price, $28 when purchased). Red brick in color,
not a powerfull nose but some varietal and floral aromas, medium full body, slightly high in acid, tannins still harsh. Perhaps
better in a few years. Both Robert Parker and Wine Spectator gave this wine a 91 Not me. (87)
Oct. 21st, '09 Spain & Portugal Night #1, 2006 Villa Narcisa, Verdejo, Rueda, Spain $14.50. Pale gold color, closed
nose, good balance, light bodied, uniflavored wine with 15 second finish. (82) #2, 2008, Val do Sosego, Albarino, Rias Baixas,
Spain $14.99. Pale straw color, aromas of vanilla and melon, very slightly acidic, two levels of fruit flavor, 20 second finish.
This wine is going to continue to improve for three or four years. (89) #3, 2007 Conde Valdemar Rose, Rioja, Spain $9.
Pale garnet color, aromas of dried fruit and flowers, very slightly acidic, light body, fruit flavors, short finish. (86)
#4, 2006 Villa Regia, Douro, Portugal $7.99. Two shades of purple, aromas of dark fruit and current, acidic balance, medium body,
flavors end on sour note. Not Recommended. (77) #5, 2005 Cantos de Valpiedra, Rioja, Spain $12. Two shades of dark
red color, varietal aroma and flavors, soft tannins, medium full body, 12 second finish. Drinking well now, can hold two years.
(90) #6, 2006 Joan D'Anguera, "El Bugader", (Syrah) Montsant, Spain $32. Inky dark colors, varietal aroma plus dark fruit
and tar aromas, very full body, good balance and structure, layers of flavor with soft tannins, very long finish. Drinking well
now but will keep another decade. (94) #7, 2003 Delaforce Vintage Port, Dark colors, aromas of cassis, lush
sweetness overwhelms the taster, full bodied, finished well. Very young, can drink now but this wine needs another 10 years to peak and
then will last another 10 years. (93)
Oct. 28th, '09 Italian Night No extensive notes due to world series game. #1, 2005 Mazzoni, Chianti $10. A
simple, non offensive, fruit forward wine. (83) #2, 2001 Di Majo Norante, Molise $15. Very dark plum color, considering
this is a 2001. The Aglianico overpowered the Sangiovese, slightly acidic, med. full body. (86) #3, 2004 Rubrato, Dei Feudi
Di San Gregoria, Compania $17. Browning garnet color, nose slightly closed, good balance, soft tannins, med. body, dry fruit flavors,
20 second finish. (90) #4, 1999 Promessa Negroamaro, Apulia $18. Two BAD bottles, foul nose blows off after aeration,
oxidizing. AVOID (68) #5, 2005 Le Sciare Salento, Primitovo, Apulia $11.50. Young, purple color, balance leaning
toward the sweet side, (the class liked it after the first four wines) full bodied, fruit forward, short finish. (89)
#6, 2006 "Starsa", Tenuta Del Portale, 100% Aglianico, Basilicata $11.99. Varietal aroma plus fig, great balance, med. full
body, dark fruit flavors. (92) #7, 2006 Tasca D'Almerita Regaleali, Nero D'Avola, Sicily $12. Dark red colors, plum aromas,
med. body, slightly acidic and the tannins were a little rough. A good pizza wine. (87)
Nov. 4th, '09 South America Night #1, 2009 Simonassi, Torrontes, Mendoza, Argentina $12.50. Very pale gold color,
lemon aromas, slightly acidic, low on flavor. The class did not care for this wine. (78) #2, 2005 Santa Rita, Chardonnay
Reserva, Casablanca, Chile $12.99. Pale straw color, small varietal aroma, well balanced, med. full body, citrus flavors develop
at mid palate. (85) #3, 2008 Pascual Tosa, Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina $10.99. A grapey plum color, a sharp acidic aroma
overpowered the varietal aroma, balance a little sweet, full black fruit flavors but a short finish. (88) #4, 2007 Chateau
Los Boldos, Carmenere, Rapel, Chile $12.99. Garnet color, aromas of licorice, cherry and rhubarb, balanced well but tannins a little
harsh, full bodied with fruit flavors and medium finish. Needs a couple more years. (90) #5, 2008 Casillero del Diablo,
Carmenere, Rapel, Chile $7.99. Inky dark colors, black fruit aromas, soft tannins, low on flavors, short on finish.
(86) #6, 2007 Pisano, Tannat Reserve, Uruguay, $12.99. Dark brick colors, mixed fruit and vegetable aromas, slightly
acidic, harsh tannins, medium full body, flavors were thin and green. As always some of the crowd liked it. I did not. (77)
Nov. 11th, '09 Australia & New Zealand Night #1, 2007 Matariki, Sauv. Blanc, Hawkes Bay, N.Z. $14.99. Very pale gold
color, citric aromas, grapefruit, etc., very strong citric flavors. Not real popular with the class. (82) #2, 2008
The Wishing Tree, Chard., Western Australia $10.99. Unlike a Burgundy or a California style. The nose was like the Sauv. Blanc,
medium bodied, mild fruit flavors more pronounced at mid palate. Different but class seemed to like it. (88) #3, 2006 Vicars
Choice, Pinot Noir, Marlborough, N.Z. $6.41. All three bottles bad. Brown color, off aromas and flavors. Yet they came
from case where other bottles were tasted and good. (60) #4, 2006 Carrick Unravelled, Pinot Noir, Central Otego, N.Z.
$16.31. Plum color, bursting with raspberry and cherry aromas, a good deal of harsh tannins overpowered the dark fruit flavors.
This wine needs a few more years. (86) #5, 2003 Craneford, Shiraz, Barossa Valley, South Australia $14. Red brick color,
sharp varietal aromas, (The sharpness blew off after aeration.) good balance, layers of fruit, soft almost sweet tannins, finished
long, (90) #6, 2001, Rosemont, Shiraz, Orange Vineyard, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia $16. Dark brick color,
dark fruit aromas, mostly blackberry, great balance and structure, very soft tannins, the many flavors worked in harmony. By far the
class favorite. (93)
Nov. 18th, '09 California Night #1, 2006 La Sirena Moscato Azul, Napa $22. Pale gold color, apricot and dried fruit
aromas, medium full body, secondary flavors come out at mid palate, finished long. (89) #2, 2007 Taz, Pinot Noir, Santa
Barbara $19.99. Ruby garnet color, varietal aromas plus black cherries, light medium body, mild tannins, light fruit flavors.
(84) #3, 1996 Carmenet, Zinfandel, Contra Costa County $20. Brick color, much sediment, aromas of leather, dry, good balance,
but over the hill. (82) #4, 2006 River Road Vineyards, Cab. Sauv., Sonoma $12.99. Plum color, sharp varietal aroma, slightly
acidic, soft tannins, fruit forward, only one flavor, short finish. Good value for the price. (85) #5, 2003 Clay Station,
Malbec, Lodi $12. Red brick color, black cherry aromas, thin structure, tasted green, light bodied, flavors clouded, finish short.
Don't try this at home. (78) #6, 2005 Foppiano Vineyards, Petite Sirah, Russian River Valley $16.99. Dark inky colors,
dark fruit aromas, still very tannic, full bodied, very slight taste of the 14.2% alcohol, very long finish. Needs two more
years. Class favorite. (89) #7, Extra Bottle 1986 Inglenook, Reserve Cask, Cab. Sauv. WS-91 $50 to $145. Brown brick
colors, weak varietal aroma, medium body, tasting slightly acidic, flavors of drying fruit that stayed with you. (88)
Nov. 25th, '09 Blind Tasting (No Tasting Notes - Grand Prize Winner, Chris Scheid)
Dec. 2nd, '09 Champagne Night (No tasting notes) Wines Tasted: #1, NV Gruber Punkt Genau, Gruner Veltliner,
Austria $23. #2, NV Deltetto Extra Brut, Piedmont, Italy $21.33. #3, NV Montaudon, Brut, Champagne $32.99. #4, NV Heidsieck Monopole,
Brut, Champagne $32.99. #5, 2001 S. Anderson, Late Disgorged, Carneros $21. #6, 2005 Schramsberg, Blanc de Noirs, Napa $33.99.
#7, NV Piper Sonoma, Blanc de Blancs, Sonoma, $14.99. #8, NV Domaine Chandon, Blanc de Noirs, Napa $15.29
2010 Spring Semester,
Feb. 24th, '10 Loire Valley #1, 2007 Chateau du Jannay, Muscadet Sevre et Maine, $11.76. Water white in color, melon
aromas plus grassy overtones, light, well balanced with crisp acidity, short finish. (88) #2, 2008 Giles Blanchet,
Pouilly Fume, $18.18. Clear water white color, strong grapefruit aromas, well structured, with crisp acidity, very dry, medium
finish. Needs a few more years. (92) #3, 2008 Jean-Claude-Bougrier, Vouvray, $10.69. Pale straw color, medium
to full bodied wine with floral aromas, slightly sweet on balance, lingering finish. (90) #4, 2008 Domaine De La Semellerier,
Chinon, (Cab. Franc) #13.90. Light Beaujolais type color, Cab. varietal aromas plus floral, violet aromas, slightly tannic, light
body, structured thin, long finish. Needs 2 more years. (87) #5, 1983 Chateau Des Cocus Du Layon, (Botrytis, Chenin Blanc),
$35, now selling at auction for $125. Deep golden color, honey and ripe fruit aromas, very full bodied, enough acidity to make
the wine still taste fresh after 27 years, a finish that lasts forever. Drink now or hold another 30 years. (98)
March 3rd, '10 Bordeaux #1, 2008 Chateau Bonnet, Entre-Deux-Mers, $13.99. Pale straw color, aromas of grapefruit,
melon, good balance with fresh acidity, medium body, other citrus fruits at mid palate, finnished long. Good now, better in 1 - 2
years. (88) #2, 2006 Chateau Coucheroy, Pessac-Leognan, $19.99. Brick color, Very subdued aromas, medium body,
slightly acidic, tasting green and thin, short finish. Not recommended. (69) #3, Chateau Peyremorin, Haut Medoc,
$15.99. Plum to crimson colors, Aromas of cloves and red berries, balance, slightly acidic, thin structure, medium body, short
on flavors and finish. (79) #4, 2005 Domaine Des Gourdins, St. Emilion, $17.99. Dark plum color, Cab. varietal aroma
with traces of chocolate, well balanced, full bodied, earthy flavors, medium finish. (87) #5, 2003 Clos L'Eglise,
Cotes de Castillon, $21. (We had one corked bottle) Color, just starting to brown at edges, Cab. varietal smell plus
cigar box aromas, medium body, still tannic but well structured, better last semester. Drink now. (89)
Extra Special Bottle 1983 Chateau Filhot, Sauternes, $100-$125. Dark golden color, honeysuckle aromas with floral bouquet,
intense flavors of apricot, seamless right through mid palate, medium full body, 90 second finish. Still holding it's peak at
27 years old. (93)
March 17th, '10 Rhone #1 ,2007 Reserve Perrin, Cotes Du Rhone, $10.99. Dark plum color, Varietal plus dark
fruit aromas, slightly tannic but good balance, medium body, robust flavors but thinning at mid palate. (88)
#2, 2007 Belleruche, Cotes Du Rhone, $12.99. Several shades of plum color, aromas of raisins, good structure, medium full
body, slightly hot from the 14.5% alcohol but deep fruit flavors, finished long. (90) #3, 2007 Domaine Le Colombier.
"Vielles Vignes", Vacqueyras, $17.99. Much lighter color than the first two, pronounced aroma of Mourvedre, medium body, well
balanced, fruit flavors with a peppery quality, interesting wine. (90) #4, 2006 Domaine Chante Perdix,
Chateauneuf-du-Pape, $38. Browning, dark brick color, some fruit on nose but mostly a smell of creosote, slightly acidic,
tasting thin, short finish. (78) #5, 2005 Chateau St. Sauveur, Muscat de Beaumes de Venise, (375ml. bottles),
$13.99. Dirty blonde color, honeysuckle aroma, full bodied, flavors of butterscotch, medium finish. (86) &nmsp;
Extra Special Bottle 1985 Jaboulet La Chapelle, Hermitage, $315. A major disappointment, brick color, subdued varietal
aroma plus faint trace of violets, medium full body, poor balance, slightly acidic, tasting green and thin. (74)
March 24th, '10 Spain & Portugal #1, 2006 Villa Narcisa, Rueda, Castilla Y Leon, Spain, 100% Verdejo $11.50. A straw
to pale golden color, floral nose with hints of pineapple, crisp acidity, well balanced, at it's peak now. (87)
#2, 2007 Legado Conde, Rias Baixas, Spain, 100% Albarino $12. Pale straw color, hints of vanilla and mango, good structure,
probably be drinking well for another three years. (89) #3, 2007 Conde Valdemar, (Rose) from Rioja, Spain $10.
A very pale garnet color, aromas of strawberry jam, medium body, fresh acidity, finished short but drinking well now and for
the next few years. (89) #4, 2005 Conado de Oriza, Ribera del Duero, Spain, Crianza, Tempranillo $14.99. Dark plum
color, raspberry aromas, pleasing soft tannins, powerful structure, balance leaning toward sweet side, fruit flavors develop
at mid palate, 25 second finish. Great now and for the next 6 years. I bought more. (94) #5, 2005 Campo Viejo,
Rioja, Spain, Reserva $11.99. Plum color, nose closed down, sharp abrasive tannins that overwhelmed the slight fruit flavors,
finished short. (72) #6, 1997 Quinto Do Noval/Silval, "Vintage Port", Portugal, $55, WS-92. Very dark "inky"
color, Varietal aromas plus cherries and other dark fruits, massive body, sweet tannins, sweet flavors that build up, finished
long. Drinkable now but will improve for another 5 years and then last another 5 or 10. (94)
March 31st, '10 Italy Sorry, no tasting notes due to Bronchitis.
April 7th, '10 Wines of South America #1, 2008 Chateau Los Boldos "Mementos", Carmenere, Raphel, Chile $9.99. Deep
plum color, Merlot varietal aromas, plus traces of current and blackberry, well balanced, full bodied, layers of flavor and a
very long finish. Not a long time keeper but great for immediate consumption. (93) #2, 2005 Carmen Reserve, 60% Carmenere,
40% Cab. Sauv., Maipo, Chile $16.99. Solid plum in color, a off vegetal aroma, well structured but tasting thin, short finish.
(84) #3, 2008 Finca Flichman, 100% Cab. Sauv. Reserva, Mendoza, Argentina $9.99. Garnet in color, strong varietal aroma,
well balanced with soft tannins, medium body, a little short on flavors. A good wine for the price. Drink now to 2012. (88)
#4, 2008 Finca Flichman "Gestos", Malbec from two altitudes blend, Mendoza, Argentina $12.99. Purple color, aromas of
forrest floor and leaves, sharp tannins, medium body, fruit forward, short finish. (80) #5, 2008 Andeluna, Malbec,
Mendoza, Argentina $10.99. Opaque in color, aromas of sweet cider, lots of easy going tannins, well structured, medium-full
body, with more flavors at mid palate, finished long. Will be at peak in 2 to 3 years. (92) #6, 2007 Pisano, 100%
Tannat Reserve, Rio de la Plato, Uruguay $12.99. Garnet to brick colors. black fruit aromas, acidic with harsh tannins, medium
body, simple straight forward flavor. Not recommended. (76)
April 14th, '10 Australia & New Zealand #1, 2006 Silver Birch, Sauv. Blanc, Marlborough, NZ WA-88 $11.50. Pale golden
color, citrus aromas with pronounced grapefruit in aroma and flavor, light body, finished short. (86) #2, 2009
Cottesbrook, Sauv. Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $11.99. Water white in color, citrus plus honeysuckle aromas, well balanced, more flavors
at mid palate, medium finish. Will get better over next two years. (89) #3, 2008 Jip Jip Rocks, Chardonnay, Limestone
Coast, S. Australia $14.99. Very pale straw color, nose closed in and withdrawn, light body, tasting thin and green, short finish.
(78) #4, 2008 Spy Valley, Pinot Noir, Marlborough, NZ $23.99. Pale garnet color, very sharp varietal aromas, slightly
acidic, soft tannins, medium body, mild black fruit flavors, medium finish. Not reccomended at this price. (82)
#5, 2006 Wakefield Estate, 100% Shiraz, Clare Valley, S. Australia $14.99. Several colors from ruby to garnet, dark fruit and
blackberry aromas, well balanced and structured, full body, flavors drying at mid palate, long finish. (91) #6,
2007 Thorn-Clarke, Shiraz / Cab. Sauv. Blend, Barossa Valley, S. Australia $14.99. Dark plum color, Cab. varietal aroma plus
pencil box aromas, well balanced, med.-full body, very mild tannins, gobs of fruit flavor and finished long. Very good now but
better in two years. (93) The Class Favorite.
April 21st, '10 California #1, 2007 Dynamite Vineyards, Zinfandel, Mendocino $10.49. Garnet colot, blackberry and
other dark fruit aromas, well balanced with fine, smooth tannins, medium body, several layers of flavor, medium finish. A great
value, to drink now. (88) #2, 2006 Redemption, Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley $18.99. Light plum color, mixed dark
fruit aromas, strong structure, slightly tannic, medium body, drying out at mid palate, finished long. (86) #3,
2005 Havens Wine Cellar, Merlot, Napa $14. Dark plum to brick color, earthy varietal aroma, big wine, medium full body, several
off flavors, medium finish. (83) #4, 2006 Havens Wine Cellar, "Bourriquot" Cabernet Franc, Napa $15. Plum color,
Cab. aroma plus wood, well balanced, medium body, layers of flavor, medium long finish. Enjoy now. (88) #5, 2003
Martin Ray, Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Cruz Mountains $20. Dark plum color, varietal aroma plus vanilla and oak, well structured,
still possesing fine tannins, full body, layers of fruit flavor, finished long. (90) #6, 2005 Boxcar Wine Company,
Syrah, Santa Maria, Santa Barbara County $11. Purple color, varietal aroma plus earthy forest floor and leaves aromas, good
balance, slightly tannic, full body, singular fruit flavor, finished long. (87) #7, (Special Bottle) 1985 Groth,
Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, Now listing for $210. Brick color, Cab. aroma plus wood and shoe polish aromas, balance very slightly
acidic, medium body, fruit flavors gone replaced by oxidizing woody flavors, finished very long. A great wine, probably 5 years
past it's prime. (88)
April 28th, '10 Blind Tasting (White Wines) No notes taken. (Grand prize winner - Jennifer Holiday) (I had two wrong)
May 5th, '10 Champagne Night (Party, no notes taken.) (All wines were Brut & NV) #1, Bougrier Sparkling Vouvray,
Blanc de Blancs, Loire $17.99. #2, Domaine Chandon, Blanc de Noirs, Napa $17.49. #3, Gloria Ferrer, Blanc de Noirs, Carneros, Sonoma
$15.99. #4, Heidsieck Monopole "Blue Top", Epernay, France $32.99. #5, Roederer Estate, Mendocino $18.99. #6, Nicolas Feuillatte, Chouilly,
France $32.99. #7, Montaudon, "Classic Blend", Reims, France $29.99. #8, G.H. Martel & Co., "Prestige", Epernay, France $29.99.
(Many of the class liked the Sparkling Vouvray. My personal choice: Heidsieck Monopole.)
2010 Fall Semester,
Sept. 23rd, '10 Alsace 1st night - no notes taken #1, 2007 Trimbach Riesling, $18.18 #2, 2007 Domaines Schlumberger,
Pinot Gris, $18.18 #3, 2008 Willm, Pinot Blanc Reserve, $10 #4, 2007 Trimbach Gewurztraminer, $18.18
Sept. 30th, '10 Bordeaux #1, 2009 Chateau Haut Guillebot, Entre-Doux-Mers, $11.99. Clear, water white in color,
citrus aromas, light body but well balanced, sauv. blanc varietal flavor, finish short. (85) #2, 2005 Chateau
Lauriol, Cotes De Francs, $14. Dark plum color, Merlot varietal aroma plus dark cherry, balance slightly acidic, medium light
body. (85) #3, 2005 Marquis De Calon, Saint Estephe, (2nd wine of Ch. Calon Segur) $30. Very dark colors, varietal
aromas plus a little vanilla, great structure and balance, layers of flavors at mid palate, tannins suggest that it needs more time,
30 second finish. (91)
#4, 2003 Clos L'Eglise, Cotes de Castillion, $20. Garnet color, varietal aromas with slight oak, well balanced but a little thin,
sweet tannins, short finish, drinking well now. (90) #5, 2000 Chateau Lalande-Borie, Saint Julien, $36. Three dark colors, aromas
of dark fruit, great balance, firm structure, sweet tannins, fruit flavors at mid palate, long finish. Ten years old and still
young. (92) #6, 2004 Madame Fleur, Sauternes, $16. (One of our bottles was corked.) Honey, straw golden color,
semillon aromas plus slight trace of honeysuckle, typical full body and long finish but not much else. (83)
#7, (SPECIAL BOTTLE) 1990 Chateau Duhart Milon, Pauillac, ($100 to $150) Did not open until end of class. Beautiful garnet to
brick colors. At first nose was closed, after a few minutes it opened up and showed a cab., smoked meat, oak and leather nose.
At twenty years old this wine was still at it's peak. (95)
Oct. 7th, '10 Rhone #1, 2005 Paul Jaboulet Aine, "Le Chevalier de Sterimberg", White Hermitage, $24.50. Light
straw color, citrus aromas, dry with a very slightly acidic balance, layers of flavor. (89) #2, 2003 Saint Joseph, "Roquebussanne",
$25. Garnet color, closed aromas, poor structure, tasted thin and acidic. (Bottle Variations) (79) #3, 2007 Ventoux,
J V Fleury, $11.99. Fresh dark plum color, Grenache varietal aroma, slightly sweet balance, soft tannins. A class best buy,
favorite. Keep for another two to three years. (94) #4, 2006 Vallon des Sources, Vacqueyras $15.99. Plum color, Grenache
varietal aromas plus briar and dark fruit, full bodied but could taste the alcohol. (88) #5, 2008 "Le Cep",
Cotes Du Rhone $8.99. Light ruby color, fruit forward, Beaujolais style wine. (86) #6, 2003 Eddie Feraud,
Chateauneuf-du-Pape $33. Garnet to brick color, varietal aromas plus smoked meat nose, zero tannins, fruit and licorice,
through mid palate, long finish. Drink now. (92)
Oct. 14th, '10 Spain & Portugal #1, 2007 Legado Conde, Albarino, Rias Baixas, Spain $12. Pale straw color, citrus
aromas plus hints of vanilla, crisp without being overly acidic, short finish. (89) #2, 2007 Vila Regia, Douro, Portugal,
$8.99. Ruby color, dark cherry aroma plus hints of white pepper, medium body but flavors were thin. (86) #3,
2007 Numanthia Termes, Valdefinjas, Spain $22. Plum color, strong tempranillo varietal nose, perfect balance, dry, medium/full
body, smooth tannins, mid palate flavors, medium finish, drinking well now. (91) #4, 2004 Valserrano, Reserva,
Rioja $19.99. Dark brick color, Aromas of dark fruit plus vanilla, well balanced and structured, medium body with layers of flavor,
soft tannins, medium finish. The class favorite. (93) #5, 1996 Cims de Porrera, "Classic", Priorat, Spain $41.
Extremly dark plum color, grenache aromas plus violets, great structure and balance, soft tannins, layers of flavor, long
finish. Can probably last another 10 years. (92) #6, 2004 Kopke, Quinta Sao Luiz, Vintage Port, $45. Inky dark color,
sweet cherry aromas, massive body, sweet tannins, fruit flavors, very long finish. This wine is a baby. It will last a decade
at least. (90)
Oct. 22nd, '10 Italy #1, 2007 Orvieto "Libra", Umbria $9.50. Water white in color, aromas of fresh hay, dry with
good balance, a light wine, crisp, short finish. (88) #2, 2008 Corbello "Inzolia", Sicily, $10. Pale straw color,
aromas that reminded me of Semillon, med./full body, vanilla flavors. (87) #3, 2006 Ruffino Chianti Superiore,
$10. Garnet to brick in color, Blackberry aromas, med. body but tasted thin, no tannins and little flavor, short finish. (85)
#4, 2003 Serpico, Dei Feudi Di San Gregoria, Compania (Aglianico)$28. Dark garnet color, sweet dark cherry and cassis
aromas, strong structured wine, med. body, sharp tannins, fruit flavors through mid palate, long finish. (93) #5, 2008
Terramore, Nero D'Avola, Sicily $10.99. Light ruby "Beaujolais" color, dark fruit and floral aromas, slightly sweet balance,
med. body, fruit forward with short finish. (87) #6, 2005 Rivata Barolo, Piedmont $24.99. Light brick to orange
color, varietal aroma plus oak and licorice, full bodied, well balanced, surprising lack of tannin, med finish. (90)
#7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 2005 Antinori, Tignanello, Super Tuscan. (avg. $100)WS-92, WA-92. Dark plum color, varietal
aromas, perfect balance, med./full body, seamless flavors through mid palate, 45 second finish. (95)
Oct. 29th, '10 South America #1, 2007 Salton Volpi, Chardonnay, District Tuiuty, Brazil $9. Very pale straw color,
aromas of melon and vanilla, medium body, good balance, with creamy, vanilla flavors. (88) #2, 2006 Marques Casa
Concha, Concha Y Toro, Chardonnay, Maipo, Chile $12.50. (One bad bottle) Pale gold, slightly acidic balance, medium body, mixed
fruit flavors. (86) #3, 2008 Mont Gras, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva, Colchauga, Chile $10. Dark garnet color,
varietal aroma plus dark fruit and oak, fruit forward, medium body, soft tannins, 15 second finish. (91) #4,
2008 Miguel Torres, Santa Digna, Carmenere Reserve, Central Valley, Chile $8.54. Dark plum color, dark cherry aroma, slightly
sweet balance, good structure, flavors of blackberry and cassis, finished short. (89) (Malbec Tasting)#5, 2008 Callia Alta, 100%
Malbec, San Juan, Argentina $10. Light brick color, aromas of anise and fennel, medium body, soft tannins, fruit flavors at
mid palate, long finish. (90) #6, 2008 Clos La Coutale, 80% Malbec, 20% Merlot, Cahors, France $10. Dark plum color,
varietal aroma plus cherry jam, soft tannins, medium/full body, dark fruit flavors, long finish. (92)
(The class favorite) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 2006 Don Melchor, Concha Y Toro, Maipo, Chile (avg. $70). Inky dark colors,
varietal aroma plus earthy, forrest floor bouquet, soft tannins, medium body, seamless flavors through mid palate, long finish. (95)
Nov. 4th, '10 Australia & New Zealand #1, 2009 Brancott, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $12. Water white in color,
varietal aroma plus grapefruit on nose, light body, minimal citrus flavor, crisp acidity. (86) #2, 2007 Penfolds,
"Thomas Hyland" Chardonnay, S. Australia $12.49. Pale golden color, melon aromas, medium body, soft buttery flavors with hints
of vanilla, short finish. (88) #3, 2008 Drystone, Pinot Noir, Central Otago, NZ $20. Deep plum color, slight
alcohol burn and a trace of bitterness. (83) #4, 2007 Redbank, "The Long Paddock", Shiraz, Victoria, Australia $10.49.
Deep plum color, Medium/full body, well balanced, blackberry aromas, soft tannins, mild flavors. (87) #5, 2006
d'Arenberg, "The Footbolt" Shiraz, McLaren Vale, S. Australia $18.49. Very dark color, varietal plus black currant aromas. full
bodied with strong structure, moderate tannins, cassis flavors through mid palate, finished long. Better in 2 to 3 years. (91)
#6, 2001 Rosemont, "Mountain Blue", 60% Shiraz/40% Cab. Sauv., Mudgee, New South Wales, Australia $23.50 (Now over $50).
Dark Garnet color, varietal plus intense black fruit aromas, medium/full body, well balanced, sweet tannins, dark cherry flavors
through mid palate, finished long. Drinking well now and will probably last another 4 to 8 years. (94)
Nov. 11th, '10 California #1, 2006 Eos, Paso Roble, Sauv. Blanc $12.50. Pale golden color, citrus and freshly cut grass
aromas, well balanced, not very acidic, short finish. (86) #2, 2006 Eos, Paso Roble, Chardonnay $12.50. Golden color.
pear aromas and flavors, medium body, fruit forward, short finish. (88) #3, 2005 Havens Wine Cellar, Napa, Merlot
$14. One Bad Bottle Dark garnet color, dark fruit, tar and tobacco aromas, well structured with soft tannins, medium body,
fruit forward, finished short. (87) #4, 2006 Havens Wine Cellar, Napa, "Bourriquot", Cabernet Franc $15. Plum
color, Cabernet plus dark cherry nose, medium to light body with soft tannins, singular in flavor, short finish. (88)
#5, 2008 Oak Ridge, Lodi, Ancient Vines Zinfandel $11.99. Inky dark colors, varietal plus bramble nose, strong structure,
medium to full body, balance slightly sweet, medium length finish. (A class favorite) (90) #6, 2005 Boxcar Wine
Company, Santa Maria, Syrah $11. Dark brick color, full bodied, balance slightly sweet, flavors through mid palate, long finish.
(92) SPECIAL 3 BOTTLE VERTICAL TASTING 2003, 2004, 2005 St. Supery, Napa, Cabernet Sauvignon. (2005 was class favorite)
Nov. 18th, '10 Blind Tasting A new class record. Nine students with a perfect score. (I had 4 out of 6 correct)
Dec. 2nd, '10 Champagne Night (Party, No notes taken) (All wines Brut NV) #1, G.H. Martel & Co., Epernay $29.99.
#2, Cavalier, Blanc de Blancs, Alsace $20.99. #3, Domaine Chandon, Blanc de Noirs, Napa $17.49. #4, Roederer
Estate, Mendocino $18.99. #5, Nicolas Feuillatte, Chouilly $32.99. #6, Heidsieck & Co. Monopole, "Blue Top", Epernay $32.99. #7, Moutaudon, Reims $29.99
2011 Spring Semester,
Feb. 24th, '11 First Night, Loire Valley #1, 2009 Chateau du Jaunay, Muscadet Sevre et Maine, (Sur Lie) $10.99+7%.
Water white in color, small pear melon nose, slightly dry balance, crisp and light. Needs a couple years in bottle. (88)
#2, 2009 Bougrier, Vouvray $9.99+7%. Medium body, balance slightly sweet, needs time. Prior vintages in class were better. (86)
#3, 2009 Domaine Brazilier, Coteaux du Vendomis $17.32. Ruby color, Cab. Franc nose just starting to develop, medium body,
mixed fruit flavors, short finish. (87) #4, 2009 Domaine De La Semellerie, Chinon $12.99+7%. Light garnet color,
varietal aroma, well structured and balanced, very light sweet tannins, dark cherry flavors, medium length finish. Drinking
well now but needs a few years. (89) #5, 1983 Chateau des Cocus Du Layon, (Botrytus Chenin Blanc) Today $150.
Two bottles were oxidized but drinkable. Honey color, honeysuckle nose, full bodied, sweet but not cloying, a finish
that seems to last forever. A great wine now near the end of its life. (93)
Mar. 3rd, '11 Bordeaux #1, 2009 Chateau Guibon, Entre-Deux-Mers, $12.99. Clear water white in color, grapefruit
and other citrus aromas, slightly low on acid, short finish. Drinking well now but better in 1 to 2 years. (87)
#2, 2008 Fortin Plaisance, St. Emilion, $19.99. Pale ruby color, varietal aromas, poor balance, acidic, light body with medium
finish. Not recommended. (69) #3, 2008 Chateau Tour Canon, Canon Fronsac, $19.99. Deep garnet color, aromas of dark
fruit, perhaps very slightly acidic, full bodied with layers of fruit flavors and 40 second finish. Drinking well now and will
last through 2015. (90) #4, 2008 Chateau Les Bernedes, Medoc, $14.99. Light Beaujolais color, varietal aroma,
poor, thin structure, light body, short finish. Not recommended. (75) #5, 2003 Chateau Cordeillan-Bages, Pauillac,
$37.50. Deep plum color, aromas of smoked meats and oak, great balance and structure, soft tannins, medium body with dark cherry
flavors, 30 second finish. A excellent wine that will last another 6 to 8 years. (93) #6, 2004 Madame Fluer,
Sauternes, $18. Bronze color, honey suckle nose, massive body, very sweet but not cloying, layers of flavor, finished long.
(86) Special Tasting 1996 Duhart Milon and 1996 Moulin de Duhart. Both bottles had a slightly off nose which
disappeared with aeration.
March 10th, '11 Rhone #1, 2009 Crozes Hermitage, (Marsanne) $17.99. Water white in color, aromas of pear and apple,
crisp, slightly high acidity, medium body and finish. Drinking well now, will improve with one or two years in bottle. (89)
#2, 2001 Domaine St. Luc, Coteaux Du Tricastin "GSM" $14.50. Cloudy, old brick color, black cherry aromas, dry, soft tannins,
well balanced, medium finish with slight bitterness at end. Probably about three years past it's prime. (79) #3,
2003 Eddie Feraud, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, $33. Garnet to browning colors, aromas of dark cherry, slightly acidic, medium body,
flavor starting to lean out. Drink now. (86) #4, 2007 Dom Brazlier, Ventoux $12.63. Deep purple to plum colors,
Syrah varietal aroma, well balanced but with harsh tannins, medium full body, soft fruit flavors with a trace of bitterness
at the finish. May improve with time. (85) #5, 2007 Domaine Le Colombier, Vacqueyras (Vielles Vignes) $19.99.
Light ruby to garnet colors, blackberry aromas, well balanced with soft tannins, medium body, forward fruit flavors, medium long
finish. Drinking well now and will last at least three more years. (91) #6, 2009 Les Viguires, Cotes Du Rhone $9.99.
Plum color, raspberry aromas, well balanced but harsh tannins, medium full body, single straight forward fruit flavors, medium
finish. May improve slightly. (81)
March 17th, '11 Spain & Portugal #1, 2008 Pionero Mundi, Albarino, Rias Baixas $12.50. Pale straw color, apple
aromas, soft citrus flavors, short finish. Drinking well now but better in 1 year. (87) #2, 2006 Bodegas Conde
Neo Sentido, Ribera del Duero, 100% Tempranillo, $15. Solid plum color, varietal and dark fruit aromas, high level of tannin,
medium body, good balance, mixed dark fruit flavors. Needs 3 years at least in bottle. (86) #3, 2003 Vina Mayor,
Reserva, Ribera del Duero $16.50. Plum to garnet color, dark cherry plus leather aromas, some harsh tannins, balance slightly
acidic, flavors of thinning fruit. Not reccomended. (78) #4, 2007 Campo Viejo, Crianza, Rioja $9.99.
Light ruby in color, sweet fruit aromas, balance slightly sweet, lightweight body, no tannins, soft fruit flavors. Drink now.
(84) #5, 2006 Campo Viejo, Reserva, Rioja $11.99. Garnet color, varietal aroma plus oak and vanilla, medium
body with good structure and balance, several mixed fruit flavors through mid palate, medium to long finish. (91)
#6, 2003 Campo Viejo, Gran Reserva, Rioja $19.99. Dark plum color, strong oak aroma, balance slightly sweet, full bodied,
dark fruit flavors, long finish. (88) Of the three, the class favorite was the Reserva. #7, NV Fonseca,
Bin #27 Reserve, Tawny style Port $21. Inky dark purple color, deep dark cherry aromas, massive body, sweet fruit flavors that
last forever. (90)
March 24th, '11 Italy Sorry, no tasting notes due to illness. Wines listed.
#1, 2009 Picco Maccario, Barbera Rose, Piedmont $12. #2, 2006 "Fiulot" Prunotto Barbera D' Asti, Piedmont $9.50.
#3, 2009 "Pertenace" Dolcetto D'Alba, Piedmont $12.50. #4, 2007 Allegrini, Valpolicella, Venato $12.50. #5, 2003 Serpico,
Dei Feudi Di San Gregoria, Compania, Aglianico $32. #6, 2000 Benni D'Batasiolo, Barolo, Piedmont $37.50.
SPECIAL TASTING 2007 La Maia Lina, Chianti, 2007 La Maia Lina, Chianti Classico, 2006 La Maia Lina, Chianti Classico Reserva.
March 31st class, had to be cancelled.
April 7th, '11 South America Sorry, no detailed notes due to illness. Hopefully by next week. Included comments from
students. (No Scores) #1. 2010 Crois de Susana Balboa, "Torrontes", Mendoza, Argentina $14.34. Water white in color, aromas of
Papaya and grapefruit, crisp acidity, fruit flavors including cantaloupe. A Class favorite. #2, 2009 Casa Silva, Reserva,
Sauvignon Blanc, Colchagua, Chile $12.50. Water white in color, strong grapefruit aroma, bracing acidity. #3, 2006 Concha
Y Toro, "Marques" Chardonnay, Maipo, Chile $12.50. Bottle variation, colors from golden to browning, varietal aroma but wine now
past it's prime. Not recommended. #4, 2005 San Telmo, Shiraz, Mendoza Argentina $10. Garnet color, dark cherry flavors,
one bottle musky. #5, 2009 San Telmo, "Essencia", Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina $12. #6, 2008 "Expressiones" Reserve,
Finca Flichman, Malbec/Cab. Sauv., Mendoza, Argentina $14.99. #7, 2008 "Tonconogy", Finca Maza, Malbec/Merlot $13.99.
April 14th, '11 Australia & New Zealand #1, 2010 Brancott, Sauv. Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $11.34. Zero color, aromas of
grapefruit and kiwi, good structure with crisp acidity through the citrus flavors, medium finish. Drinks well now but will improve
over the next few years. (92) #2, 2008 Cape Mentelle, 58% sauv. Blanc, 41% Semillon, Margaret River, W. Australia,
$17.99. Very pale straw color, Semillon aroma was dominate with traces of honeysuckle, medium dry balance, bland with no freshness,
short finish. Not recomended. (80) #3, 2007 Matariki, 100% Pinot Noir, Hawks Bay, NZ $19.99. Light ruby color,
dark cherry aroma, well balanced, soft tannins, fruit forward flavors, finished dry and long. (89) #4, 2009 Nelson
Bay, Pinot Noir, Nelson Bay, NZ $8.99. Pale ruby color, dark mixed fruit aromas, slightly acidic balance, acidity carries over
into the flavors, short finish. (78) #5, 2008 Gemtree, "Tadpole", Shiraz, McLaren Vale, Australia $10.50. Inky
purple in color, aromas of tar and smoked meat, tannic, full bodied, two layers of flavor, medium finish. (88)
#6, 2008 Penfolds, "Thomas Hyland", Shiraz, South Australia $12.34. Very dark plum color, sweet dark fruit aromas including
dark cherries, well balanced, good structure, full bodied, many dark fruit flavors, long finish. Exceptional wine.(93)
April 21st, '11 California & West Coast #1, 2006 Eos, Chardonnay, Paso Roble $12.50. Pale gold in color, aromas of fresh
melon and pear, well balanced, light body, pear flavors, medium finish. (87) #2, 2008 Tori Mor, Pinot Noir,
Willamette Valley, Oregon $19.99. Very pale ruby color, raspberry and cinnamon aromas, well balanced, very dry, not tannic,
short finish. A real light weight, not recomended. (77) #3, 2001 Mayacamus, Cab. Sauv., Mt. Veeder, Napa $46.50.
Very dark plum color, aromas of dark cherry, tar, smoke, soft tannins, full bodied, well balanced, layered fruit flavors, medium
long finish. Drinking great now but better in 10 years. (96) #4, 2005 Havens "Velvet", Cab./Syrah, Napa
$16. Dark plum color, syrah varietal aroma, slightly acid, hard tannins that last through finish. Needs another 2 + yrs. (84) #5, 2006
Red Car "Speakeasy", Syrah, Santa Maria $16.50. Inky dark, varietal aroma plus blackberry and tar, soft tannins, 15 1/2% alcohol
but you could not taste it, very full bodied, dark fruit flavors, long finish. (91) #6, 2007 Truscott, Old Vine
Zinfandel, Mendocino $14.99. Red brick color, harsh tannins, slightly acidic, medium body, short on flavors and finish. (81)
#7, 2009 Ridge "Three Valleys", Zinfandel, Sonoma $19.99. Dark plum color, Zin. aromas, dry, light berry fruit through
finish. (87) SPECIAL TASTING 1991 Inglenook, "Reserve Cask", Cab. Sauv., Napa $95. Medium brick color,
aromas of red cherry and rhubarb, complex light dry fruit flavors, medium bodied, medium finish. Past it's prime but still very much
alive. (91)
April 28th, '11 Blind Tasting Test - Our prize winners: Lisa Cantrell, Tony Gardner, Nathalie Menard.
May 5th, '11 Champagne Night #1, NV Paul Goerg, Blanc de Blancs (Premier Cru), Cote de Blancs $34.99.
#2, , 2007 Schramsberg, Blanc de Noir, Napa $31.99. #3, NV Perrier Jouet, "Grand Brut", Epernay $39.99.
#4, NV G.H.Martel & Co., "Brut Prestige", Epernay $29.99. #5, NV Heidsieck Monopole, "Blue Top", Epernay $32.99.
#6, NV Nicolas Feuillatte, "Brut", Chouilly $32.99. #7, NV Montaudon, "Brut", Reims $29.99.
(Interestingly 50% of class preferred the Blanc de Blancs and 50% preferred the Blanc de Noirs.)
2011 Fall Semester,
Sept. 15th, '11 1st night - Germany #1, 2009 Neirsteiner Speigelberg, Riesling Kabinett, Rheinhessen, $9.99. Very pale
straw color, aromas of honeysuckle and peach, slightly sweet, medium body, layers of flavors through mid palate, long finish.
(88) #2, 2010 Mettenheimer Michelsberg, Gewurztraminer Kabinett, Rheinhessen $12.99. Light golden color,
spicy aroma, spicy varietal flavor, well structured, medium finish. (84) : #3, 2009 Piesporter Michelsberg, Riesling Kabinett,
Mosel $12.99. Water white color, green apples on aroma, very sweet for kabinett, short finish. (78) #4, 2010
Grun Vin, Riesling Spatlese, Mosel $9.99. Water white color, spritzig, slightly high acidity, not recommended. (67)
#5, 2009 Piesporter Michelsberg, Riesling Auslese, Mosel $14.99. Water white color, nose closed at first, then slowly
opening with flowery apple aromas, well balanced, light flavors with a deep sweetness, medium finish. (90)
Sept. 22nd, '11 Bordeaux Night #1, 2009 Chateau Tour De Bonnet, Entre Deux Mers, $12.99. Water white in color, flowery
with slight vegetal aroma, mild pleasent flavor but perhaps slight acid balance. Probably better in two years. (81)
#2, 2008 Chateau La Valade, Premieres Cotes De Blaye, $11.99. Colors ranging from dark plum to crimson, strong dark cherry aroma,
well structured, slight sweet tannins, Merlot varietal flavors, medium finish. Great value, drink now. (85)
#3, 2008 Chateau Fonseche, Haut-Medoc $15.99. Dark plum to garnet colors, aromas of dark fruit with hints of white pepper, balance
slightly acid, soft wine with medium full body, singular flavor, finish short. (79) #4, 2008 Chateau Fortin Plaisance,
St. Emilion, $19.99. Garnet color, mixed fruit plus varietal aromas, structure thin, medium light body, short on flavor. Not recommended.
(68) #5, 2003 Chateau Cordeillan-Bages, Pauillac, $37.50. Very dark plum colors, huge cherry plus varietal nose,
strong structure with smooth tannins, layers of fruit flavors, medium long finish. Drinking well now and will last another
5 to 8 years. (93) #6, 2009 Chateau De Grand Carrety, Sauternes, $24.99. Pale golden color, honeysuckle aroma,
well balanced, sweet without cloying, full bodied, long finish. Will improve for 5 years and last at least 10. (88)
#7, Special Tasting 1986 Chateau Chambert Marbuzet, St. Estephe, value $150. Light garnet color, turning copper at the
edges, floral aromas plus varietal undertones, medium light body, varietal flavors weakening or thinning, medium finish. Past it's
prime by perhaps 5 years but still drinking well. (89)
Sept. 29th, '11 Southern France plus New World vs Old World Blind Tasting #1, 2009 Trumpeter, Malbec, $9.67, Mendoza, Argentina.
Crimson to ruby colors, aromas of black currant and dark cherry, light body, balanced well, flavors of black currant and raspberry,
finished short. Drinking well now. (87) #2, 2009 Gaudou, "1733", Malbec, $9.67, Cahors, France. Dark plum color,
pepper, black cherry and tobacco aromas, harsh tannins, medium body, leather and blackberry flavors, medium finish. (78)
#3, 2009 Heretiques, Carrignan, $12, VDP, France. Inky dark color, floral, nutmeg aroma, light weight in body,
tasted thin and earthy, short finish. (79) #4, 2003 Domaine du Deffends, GSM, Varois, Provence $20. Dark to dark
copper in color, syrah varietal aroma, good balance, med. light body, flavors thinning out, med. finish. Slightly past it's prime.
(83) #5, 2009 Chateau Virgile, GSM, Costeries De Nims, France $20.12. Plum to ruby colors, Grenache varietal
aroma, plus wet leaf smell, good balance with meaty flavors, long finish. Better in 2 -3 years. (86) #6, 2006 Domaine du Moulie, Tannat,
Madiran, France $9.99. Inky dark, strange sour aroma, good balance but poor structure, low in flavor. Not recommended. (68)
#7, 2007 Domaine Mont de Luz, Tannat Reserva, Uruguay $15.99. Plum to garnet in color, grapey, mixed dark fruit aromas,
sweet tannins, medium body, low key varietal flavors with medium finish. (84)
Oct. 6th, '11 Spain & Portugal #1, 2010 Burgan's, Albarino, Rias Baixas, Spain $14.99. Very pale golden color, aromas of
mango and guava, slightly high acidity, medium light body, light mixed fruit flavors. Better in two years. (87)
#2, 2006 Bodegas Conde Neo Sentido, Ribera Del Duero, Spain $18. Dark plum color, raspberry and black cherry on the nose, sweet
tannins, medium weight body, fruit flavors overshadowed by the tannins, medium finish. Better in 3 to 4 years. (88)
#3, 2006 Vina Alarde, Reserva, Rioja, Spain $14.99. Light garnet color, varietal aroma plus oak, good balance, light body, slight
tannins, oaky flavors. (86) #4, 2003 Quinta Dos Pocos, (red blend) Douro, Portugal $9. Brick color, garden aromas
with traces of vanilla, aciditic and thinning. Not recomended. (71) #5, 2009 Evodia, Calatayud, Spain (100 yr. old vines,
grenache) $12. Garnet to ruby colors, blackberry and traces of alcohol (15%) on nose, well balanced and structured, medium light
body, flavors of blackberry through finish. Drinking well now, will last 4 to 5 years. (90) #6, 2005 Las Pizarras,
(70 to 100 yr. old vines, Grenache) Calatayud, Spain $17.50. Blackberry aromas, perfect balance, well structured, soft tannins,
layers of dark fruit flavor, medium length finish. Drinking well now but will still improve for several years. (92)
#7, 1997 Quinta Do Noval, LBV (Late Bottled Vintage) Port, Porto, Portugal $29. Very dark brick in color, full bodied, sweet
but not cloying flavors of dark fruit, long finish. (88)
Oct. 13th, '11 The wines of Italy #1, 2006 "Fiulot" Prunotto, Barbera D'Asti $11.50. Ruby to brick in color, red currant
aroma, balance slightly acidic, fading fruit flavors, medium light body, medium finish. (85) #2, 2007 Trambusti
Badiolo, Chianti Reserva $14. Light ruby color, aromas of strawberry, dry but well balanced, medium weight body, sweet tannins.
(88) #3, 2004 Caiarossa Pergolia Toscana, Super Tuscan $19.99. New brick color, aromas of cherry and plum, medium
body, soft tannins, dry fruit flavors, 30 second finish. (90) #4, 2009 La Corte, Salice Salentino, Puglia $11.99.
Dark plum to garnet color, Dark fruit smell, balance slightly sweet, medium full body, soft tannins. Drink now to 2 years. (86)
#5, 2008 Tenuta Del Portale, "Starsa", (Aglianico) Basilcata $11.99. Very dark in color, aromas of black currant
and oak, well structured and balanced, medium weight balance, medium finish. Great value, drinking well now through next five
years. (89) #6, 2001 Feudi Taurasi, Piano Di Montevergine, Compania $42.89. (Lists for $75) (wa-94) Inky dark color, huge
dark fruit and black currant aromas, perfect balance, structured for the long haul, medium full body with silky texture,
layers of fruit, a 60+ second finish. A blockbuster, will last another decade. (96) #7, 2006 Poderi Colli, Barbaresco,
Piedmont (wa-91) $34. (We had one bad bottle) Light ruby color, aromas of licorice and leather, balanced well but a light weight
for a barbaresco. (I only sampled the bad bottle) (84) #8, Special Bottle 1961 Marchese Villadorio, Barolo (est. value $225) Very light
rusty color, oxidized and 20 yrs past its prime, still well balanced with soft faded flavors. Probably a great wine in its past.
(76)
Oct. 20th, '11 Chile & Argentina #1, 2006 Bodega del Fin del Mundo, Cab. Sauv., Patagonia, Argentina $16. Dark garnet
color, aromas of black cherry and oak, medium body with tough overpowering tannins, masking the fruit flavors, 40 second finish.
This wine will be much better in 5 to 8 years. (80) #2, 2004 Conno Sur, Cab. Sauv., Maipo, Chile $16. Dark garnet
color, aromas of tar and earthy, damp brush, well structured with soft tannins, medium weight body with dark cherry flavors,
medium length finish. Drink now to next 5 years. (83) #3, 2009 Eco, Carmenere, Colchagua, Chile $14. Plum color,
light raspberry and red currant on nose, light body and structured wine, fruit forward flavors, short finish. Drink now.
(76) #4, 2008 Santa Rita, "Medalla Real", Carmenere Reserve, Colchagua, Chile $12.50. Dark plum color, mixed aromas
of currant, leather and oak, well balanced, drying, light mixed fruit flavors, medium length finish. Drink now to 4 or 5 years.
(A Class Favorite) (89) #5, 2009 San Telmo, "Esencia", Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina $9.99. Ruby to light plum in color,
aromas of plum, pear and vanilla, medium light body, dark cherry flavors with fine tannins. Drink now. (83)
#6, 2009 Santa Rita, Malbec Reserva, Colchagua, Chile $12. Light ruby color, oak, vanilla and currant aromas, well balanced,
mixed dark fruit flavors with fine tannins. (A Class Favorite) (86) #7, 2005 San Telmo, Shiraz, Mendoza,
Argentina $12. Light ruby to brick color, meaty, smokey smell, good balance, very light fruit flavors, short finish. This wine
is past it's prime and not recommended. (68)
Oct. 27th, '11 Australia & New Zealand #1, 2009 Mohua, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand $10.99. Water white
color, aromas of lime, grapefruit, light in body, well balanced, long finish. (87) #2, 2010 Kato, Sauv.
Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $14.99. Again water white, citrus, guava and thyme on the nose, well balanced with very light body,
mixed citrus flavors, short finish. (85) #3, 2010 First Drop, (84% Arneis, 16% Chardonnay), South Australia $10.99.
Light pale straw color, woody, perfume aromas, slightly acidic, medium body, flavors seemed muted with trace of bitterness,
medium finish. (86) #4, 2008 Villa Maria, Pinot Noir, Marlborough, NZ $14.99. Tea rose color, light aromas of
cherry and raspberry, medium light in body, cherry flavors with fine, well integrated tannins, medium finish. (88)
#5, 2008 Gemtree Vineyards, "Tadpole", Shiraz, McLaren Vale, Australia $10.50. Dark plum colors, varietal and woody aromas,
medium full in body, strong structure, flavors of dark cherry and plum with fine tannins, short finish. (89)
#6, 2006 Deen De Bertoli, Petit Verdot, Hunter Valley, NSW, Australia $12. Inky, dark plum color, aromas of black currant and
plum, slightly sweet balance, oaky, jammy cherry flavors, medium length finish. (85)
Nov. 3rd, '11 California and North West #1, 2009 Apex, Sauv. Blanc, Walla Walla, WA $11.99. Very pale golden color,
grapefruit aroma, fresh, sharp acidity, medium body, flavors of lemon zest. Drink now to two years. (86) #2, 2009
Byron, Chardonnay, Santa Barbara, CA $14.99. Straw color, varietal, vanilla and oak aromas, slightly sweet balance, flavors of
honey, butter and oak, medium finish. Drink now. (85) #3, 2006 Tolosa, Pinot Noir, San Luis Obispo, CA $19.99.
Light ruby color, cherry and raspberry on the nose, well balanced but thin in structure, light body, fine tannins on thin cherry
flavors. Not great but fair value. (82) #4, 2007 Axis, Old Vine Zinfandel, Lodi, CA $15.50. New brick color,
aromas of blackberry and blueberry, well balanced, soft tannins with mixed fruit flavors, 14.8% alcohol, but could not taste it,
short finish, Drink now through next four years. (88) #5, 2005 Havens, "Velvet", Cab./Syrah blend, Napa, CA $16.
Plum to old brick colors, syrah varietal aromas, well balanced and structured with full body, flavors of plum and leather,
long finish. Drinking well now. (90) #6, 2002 Hyde De Villaine, Meritage, Napa Carneros $28.99. Plum to garnet color
Cab. varietal aroma plus wood and tar, great balance and structure, medium full body, fine tannins intergrated beautifully with
the layers of mixed dark fruit flavors, medium long finish. Great now but can last another decade. (95)
#7, SPECIAL TASTING 1995 Silverado, Limited Reserve, Napa (Lists for $150) ($6 per glass) , WS-95, Only made in good years.
Inky black to plum colors, strong Cab. aromas plus vanilla, well balanced and structured, dark cherry flavors, medium finish.
Drinking well now and will last another five to ten years. (93)
Nov. 10th, '11 Blind Tasting (7 varietals, Shiraz, Syrah/Cab. Sauv. Blend, Carrignan, Tempranillo, Grenache, Zinfandel,
Cab. Sauv.)
Dec. 1st, '11 Champagne Night #1, Heidsieck Monopole $32.99 #2, "Etoile", Domaine Chandon,$33.99
#3, Mailly, Reserve Grand Cru, $29.99 #4, River Road, "Clara's Cuvee $21.99 #5, Nicolas Feuillatte $32.99
#6, Montaudon $32.99 #7, G.H. Martell & Co. "Prestige" $29.99
2012 Spring Semester,
Feb. 16th, '12 First Night - 5 Styles of Sauvignon Blanc The Bordeaux, Loire Valley and New Zealand wines were individually
distinctive. The Chilean had no personality. The South African was distinctive it was disliked by everyone.
Feb. 23rd, '12 Bordeaux - Left vs right bank, tasted blind. #1, 2008 Chateau Bonnet, Entre Deux Mers, $10.98+7%.
Light pale straw color, grapefruit aromas, well balanced but weak fruit flavors, finished short. (86) #2,
Chateau La Tonnelle, Haut Medoc, $16.99. Crimson to plum in color, aromas of raspberry and cassis, medium bodied wine with
thin structure, mixed fruit flavors that did not last. (84) #3, 2009 Chateau Lacroix Margautot, Haut Medoc,
$16.99. Dark plum color, cherry and wood aromas, fine tannins, medium full body, dark fruit flavors that lasted through
finish. Would cellar for another 3 years. (89) #4, 2009 Chateau Bertinat Lartigue, Saint Emilion, $17.99.
Ruby to light crimson color, varietal aromas, thin structure, medium light body, short lived black cherry flavors. (Not recommended)
(76) #5, 2008 Chateau de l'Estang, Cotes de Castillon $19.99. Light ruby color, mixed dark fruit aromas, slight
soft tannins, medium body with raspberry flavors. Drinking well now but better in 2 to 3 years. (Class favorite) (91)
No one correctly identified the left from the right bank wines.
#6, 2009 Chateau de Carretey, Sauternes, $24.99. Pale straw color, aromas of honeysuckle and apricot, full bodied,
well balanced, honey fruit flavors, long finish. Fine now but will develop for another 8 or 10 years. (89)
Mar. 1st, '12 Rhone Wines - #1, 2009 Pavillon Deneurieux, Cotes Du Rhone $7.99 + 7%. Dark plum color, syrah varietal
aromas, slightly high acidity, medium weight body, slight trace of bitterness, dark fruit flavors, medium length finish. (84)
#2, 2009 Grand Veneur Reserve, Cotes Du Rhone $12.99. Dark plum color, syrah varietal aroma plus violets, well balanced,
harsh tannins, medium body, mixed fruit flavors, short finish. (87) #3, 2007 Dom Balaguere, Ventoux $13.63. (We had
one bad bottle - moldy aromas) Extremely dark color, flowery grenache aromas, good structure and balance, fine tannins, medium large
body, mixed dark fruit flavors with hint of wood, medium finish. Drinking well now, better in 2 to 3 years. (90)
#4, 2009 Les Pierres Du Vallat, Gigondas $16.50. Light garnet color, faint fruit aromas, thin structure, hot alcohol taste,
mercifully a short finish. (NOT RECOMMENDED) (62) #5, 2003 Eddie Feraud, Chateauneuf-du-Pape $34.50. Light garnet
color browning at edges, aromas of fruit and flowers, well balanced but tired and thinning flavors. Last year it was drinking
great but now past it's peak. (88) #6, 2009 Crozes Hermitage $14.99. Very light ruby color, flowery aroma, structure
slightly acidic, undeveloped "green" flavors. Not a good example of a Crozes Hermitage. (79) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE,
1999 J. Vidal Fleury, Cote Rotie, Brun & Blonde. (Cost today $100+. In class $7 per glass.) Appearance was cloudy due to me
shaking loose all the sediment on the way to class. Color was dark brick, well balanced, fine tannins with layers of fruit flavors and a
sixty second finish. Slightly past it's prime but could last perhaps another 5 years. (93)
Mar. 8th, '12 Spain & Portugal - #1, 2008 Shaya Habis, Verdejo, Rueda, Spain $14.99. Very pale straw color, aromas of
trees and shrubs, refreshingly acidic with a crisp flavor. Drinking well now will last several more years, (91)
#2, 2010 Val Do Sosego, Albarino, Rias Baixas, Galacia, Spain $11.99, sale price. Light in color, aromas of fresh hay or grasses,
medium body, good balance, light in flavor with hints of vanilla. Will improve over next few years. (87) #3, 2007
Bodegas Campo Viejo, Rioja, Crianza, Spain $9.09. Light plum to crimson in color, dark cherry aromas, slightly acidic, fine
tannins, medium weight body, dark fruit flavors, short finish. Wine at it's peak now. (86) #4, 2008 Callabriga,
Douro, Portugal $14.99. Inky purple color, varietal aromas, massive structure, strong tannins, layers of dark fruit flavors.
Showing great potential. Hold another four years. (89) #5, 2009 Bodeggas Atteca, (100 yr. old vine Grenache)
Calatyud, Spain $11.99. Dark plum color, aromas of violets and wax, well balanced with fine tannins, combination of fruit flavors,
could not taste the 15% alcohol, medium long finish. Drinking beautiful now but better in two to three years. (94)
#6, 1999 Quinta Do Noval, Late Bottled Vintage Port, Portugal $29. Slightly cloudy from sediment being disturbed, plum to brick
in color, mixed sweet fruit aromas, full bodied with good balance, sweet cherry and strawberry flavors that last forever. Wine
is drinking very well now but at it's peak. Drink now. (92)
Mar. 15th, '12 Italy - #1, 2010 Cantine Fontezoppa, Verdicchio, Marche $13.99. Water white. low key floral nose, well
balanced but light structure and body, flavors through to mid palate. (85) #2, 2007 Rubeno. Lagrein, Alto Adige
$14.99. Inky plum color, sweet cabernet aroma, well balanced with fine tannins, medium body weight, dark fruit flavors, medium
long finish. Drinking well now but better in 2 or 3 years. (89) #3, 2004 Tenuta Del Cabreo, "Il Burgo", Super
Tuscan $35. Dark plum color, dark cherry and tobacco aromas, well balanced, medium full body weight, layers of dark fruit flavors,
long finish. Will last another 6 years. Class favorite. (95) #4, 2004 Feudi Taurasi, Piano Di Montevergine,
Campania, $33.49. Dark plum to new brick color,aromas of leather and oak over dark fruit,smooth and silky on palate, flavors
that last through 40 second finish. (92) #5, 2006 Poderi Colli, Barbaresco, Piedmont $34. Light ruby color, licorice
aroma, strong tannins and alcohol taste mask the light fruit flavor. Not recommended. (76) #6, 2000 Ca' Bianca,
Barolo $42.50. Nebbiolo varietal aroma plus leather, oak and tar, well balanced, strong structure, flavors of dark fruit and
wood through it's medium length finish. Drink now. (90) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE, 2003 Le Pupille Saffredi, Maremma
Toscana ($195 - $10 per glass). Old brick to brick in color, varietal aroma plus tars, fine tannins above a perfect balance,
fruit and wood flavors that were not present in the nose through mid palate, medium long finish. Drinking well now through
2015. (93)
Mar. 22nd, '12 Wines of South America - #1, 2010 Tamaya, Chardonnay Reserva, Chile $10.99. Water white color, aromas of
lemon and grasses, light in structure and body, balanced well, flavor had sharpness on edge, short finish. (80)
#2, 2008 Argento, Chardonnay Reserva, Argentina $10.99. Light straw color, melon aromas, well balanced, medium weight body,
flavors of vanilla and oak, medium finish. Drinking well now, will last several more years. (88) #3, 2010 Alfredo
Roca, Chenin Blanc/Chardonnay, Mendoza, Argentina $8.99. Pale straw color, aromas of peaches and white flowers, medium bodied
wine with a crisp acidity. A very different style of wine. (86) #4, 2008 Bodega Cicchitti, Torrontes, Mendoza,
Argentina $4.99+7%. Light straw color, smelled of rhubarb, medium light body, short on flavors and finish. (78)
#5, 2009 Quinta Clava, Pinot Noir, Casablanca, Chile $10.99. Gamay color, harsh cherry and brush aromas, acidic in balance,
slightly "hot" (alcohol 14%), harsh cherry flavor, mercifully short finish. Not recommended. (68) #6, 2008 Santa
Rita, Carmenere, Colchuga, Chile $12.50. Very dark plum color, aromas of dark fruit, raspberry and leather, medium body, mixed
dark fruit flavors through mid palate, 30 second finish. Drinking well now through 2016. (91) #7, 2009 Casa Lapostolle,
Cab. Sauv., Rapel, Chile $9.99. Dark plum to new brick in color, varietal aromas plus sweet blackberries, medium body with
sweet tannins that lasted through 30 second finish. A great buy for the money. (89) #8, 2008 Santa Rita, Cab.
Sauv. Gran Reserva $12.50. Very dark plum in color, floral nose with hints of vanilla, solid structure with good balance,
medium body, layers of dark fruit flavors, medium length finish. Drinking well now but still improving. Good to hold another
five years. (93)
Mar. 29th, '12 Wines of Australia & New Zealand - #1, 2009 Mohua, Sauv. Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $10.98+7% tax. Very
pale straw in color, aromas of grapefruit and lemon rind, well balanced with crisp acidity, citrus flavors through the 30
second finish. Better than last semester. Drinking well now through 2015. (90) #2, 2008 Torrent Bay, Riesling,
Nelson, NZ $4.98+7%tax. Water white color, varietal aroma plus slight vegetable smell, light body, apple flavors, only 8 1/2%
alcohol, short finish. Not a great wine but a true bargain price. (85) #3, 2008 Wild Rock, "Cupids Arrow", Pinot
Noir, Central Otago, NZ $15.99. Light crimson color, light pinot nose, balance slightly acidic, fresh dark cherry flavor, a
slight trace of bitterness at the finish. Not recommended. (82) #4, 2009 Terlato & Chapoutier, Shiraz/Viognier, Victoria, Australia
$15.99. Dark purple plum color, aromas of blackberry, dark fruit and tar, strong structure, well balanced, full body, dark
fruit flavors through mid palate, long finish. Drinking well now, better in 3 to 5 years. (93) #5, 2008 Gemtree
Vineyards, "Tadpole" Shiraz, McLaren Vale, Australia $10.50. Dark plum color, sweet varietal aroma plus smells of laurel, very
mild tannins, dark fruit flavors, medium finish. As good if not better than last semester. Great value. (90)
#6, 2007 Tintara, Shiraz, McLaren Vale, Australia $14.98+7% tax. Plum to crimson in color, floral aromas plus under brush,
sweet tannins, medium full body, mixed fruit flavors but rustic delivery. Probably will last another 3 years but why bother.
(84)
Apr. 5th, '12 Wines of California and Northwest - #1, 2008 Conundrum, white blend, Napa $19.50. Pale golden straw color,
balance slightly sweet, medium body, rich pear flavor, medium length finish. (86) #2, 2006 St.Innocent, Momtazi
Vineyard, McMinnville, Oregon $32.50. Dark crimson color, aromas of raspberry and cherry, well balanced with very fine tannins,
medium body with layers of fruit, 50 second finish. A few people thought it tasted hot (alcohol). (91) #3, 2008
Buehler Vineyard, Cab. Sauv., Napa, $17.99, ws-91. Dark plum color, aromas of blackberry with hints of vanilla, strong structure,
medium full body, fruit forward flavors, medium finish. (89) #4, 2005 Silverado Vineyards, Cab. Sauv., Napa, $31.
Extremly dark plum colors, varietal aroma plus smoked meats and forest floor, well balanced with sweet tannins, mixed dark fruit
flavors plus smoked meats, medium length finish. (92) #5, 2005 Merryvale "Starmont", Merlot, Napa $21. Medium light
crimson to ruby in color, fresh cherry nose with traces of wood, balance slightly sweet, medium full in body, cherry flavors
through short finish, (84) #6, 2005 Havens "Velvet", Cab. Sauv./Syrah, Napa $16. Medium dark brick color, strawberry
aromas, slightly sweet balance, medium full body, big but flat fruit flavors, medium finish. (85) #7, 2006 Red Car
"Speakeasy", Syrah, Sonoma $21.50. Inky dark in color, aromas of dark fruit, beef, tar and wood, strong structure, full body
with perfect balance, oaky mixed dark fruit flavors through mid palate and long finish. Drinking great now and for next 10 years.
(96) Special Tasting - 2004, 2005, 2006 vertical of Col Solare (Meritage style) Produced by Chateau St. Michelle in partnership
with Antinori, Red Mountain, Washington, average price $55. Class liked all three but 2006 the favorite.
Apr. 12th, '12 Blind Tasting (White wines) - No notes taken. Four students got 6 out of 6 correct. I only had 4 out of 6. #1, 2008 Conundrum
#2, 2010 Cantine Fontezoppa, Verdicchio #3, 2008 Argento, Chardonnay, Argentina #4, 2010 Mont Gras Riserva, Sauv. Blanc, Chile #5, 2010 Alfredo Rocco, Chenin Blanc/Chardonnay, Argentina
#6, Mohua, Sauv. Blanc, New Zealand
Apr. 19th, '12 Champagne & Prosecco - #1, Moinet Prosecco, Brut, Venato $13.99. #2, Zardetto Prosecco, Brut "Private Cuvee" $12.99.
#3, Domaine Chandon, Blanc de Noirs, Napa $17.49. #4, Gloria Ferrer, Brut, Carneros, Sonoma $16.99. #5, 2007 Iron Horse, "The Wedding Cuvee", Blanc de Noirs $31.
#6, Paul Goerg, Premier Cru, Blanc de Blancs, Vertus, Cote de Blancs $34.99. #7, Heidsieck Monopole, "Blue Top", $32.99. #8, Nicolas Feuillatte, Brut $32.99.
2012 Fall Semester,
Sep. 20th, '12 Riesling Around the World - #1, 2010 Domaine Joseph Catten, Alsace $18.99. Pale straw in color, citrus and honey aromas, balance
slightly sweet, pear flavors, medium finish. (92) #2, 2009 Cave Spring, Niagra Peninsula Canada, $15. Water white color, closed nose,
crisp acidity, long finish. This wine needs about three more years to develop. (84) #3, 2008 Green Valley, Margaret River, W. Australia
$11.15. Pale golden color, closed nose, balance, high in acidity, light weight body with some off flavors. Not recommended. (68) #4, 2007 Binz,
Nackenheimer, Kabinett, Germany $10.15. One bad bottle. Deep golden color, Slightly closed nose with a few off odors, slightly acidic balance,
medium full body. Would not buy again, (73) #5, 2007 Coopers Creek, Marlborough, N.Z. $8.15. Light golden color, citrus aromas, crisp acidity,
light bodied mixed citrus flavors, perhaps a very slight trace of bitterness, short finish. Now at it's prime. (82) #6, 2007 Fess Parker,
Santa Barbara, California, $11.15. Many in the class liked this wine. (87) #7, 2007 Cousino Macul, Donna Isadora, Maipo, Chile $7.15. Pale
straw color, varietal aroma with floral bouquet, medium body but flawed with slight case of frizzante. (81)
Special Tasting - 1971 Zeltinger Himmelreich, Kabinett. Brown in color, raisin smell, completely maderized and undrinkable.
Sep. 27th, '12 Bordeaux, #1, 2006 Ch. La Louviere, Pessac-Leognan 85% Sauv. Blanc, 15% Semillon $26. Pale golden color, varietal plus citrus aromas,
slightly acidic, medium body, fruit flavors at mid palate, short finish. This wine can last another 3 or 4 years. (88) #2, 2009 Ch Blouin, Bordeaux,
Graves de Vayres region. 80% Merlot, 20% Cab. Franc $11. Dark cherry color, mixed spices on the nose plus dark fruit, silky tannins, low in acidity, fruit forward
flavors, medium light body, short finish. Will improve over next 5 years. (87) #3, 2008 Ch. Cambon La Pelouse, Haut Medoc, $24.25. Dark plum in
color, black cherry aromas, well balanced, layers of flavor, medium finish. Drinking well now through 2016. (91) #4, 2006 Ch. Nenin, Pomerol $42.67.
Plum to garnet in color, merlot varietal aroma plus mixed dark currant, full bodied with layers of flavor, medium finish. Drinking well now, should peak in about
three years and last another 5. (Class Favorite) (93) #5, 2003 Ch. Charmail, Haut Medoc $22.49. Dark brick to plum in color, blackberry aromas
dominate, well balanced but drying out, fine tannins, singular in flavor, medium finish. Slightly past its prime, drink now. (85) #6, 2003 Ch.
Mazeris, Canon Fronsac $26.50. (One bad bottle with musty aromas.) Crimson color, high acidity and off flavors. Not recommended. (74) #7. 1999
Ch. Marsau, plum to crimson in color, varietal aroma, very slightly acidic, light body with thin flavors and short finish. Past its prime. (84)
Oct. 4th, '12 Rhone #1, 2010 Chateau Beauchene, Grand Reserve, (White) Cotes du Rhone $15. Very pale gold in color, a steely mineral nose, well balanced,
crushed stoney flavors, short finish. (86) #2, 2011 (Rose) E. Guigal, Cotes du Rhone $18. Light pink color, Grenache varietal plus raspberry aromas,
good balance, straight forward mixed light fruit flavor, short finish. (88) #3, 2009 Delas, "Saint Esprit", Cotes du Rhone, $14.50. Very dark
colors, Grenache and blackberry aromas, well balanced with fine tannins integrated into the fruit forward taste, short finish. Not worth the money. (85)
#4, 2009 J. Vidal Fleury, Cote du Ventoux $15. Inky dark colors, aromas of syrah and black currant, medium full body, fine tannins, mixed black fruit
flavors through mid palate, medium length finish. Drinking well now through next 5 years. (92) #5, 2006 Domaine de Beaurenard, Cotes du Rhone,
$15. (One Bad Bottle) Light brick color, musty off odors, acidic balance, light body, thinning flavors. Not Recommended. (65) #6, 2009
Alaine Jaume, Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, "Vieux Terron" $31. Very dark color, aromas of dark fruit mixed with smoked meats, well balanced with pronounced tannins,
medium full body, dark fruit flavors that remain through medium length finish. This wine needs another five years to develop but could be great. (92)
#7, SPECIAL TASTING 1999 M. Chapoutier, "Les Becasse", Cote Rotie $10 per glass. At thirteen years old still had dark color, varietal aromas were
starting to fade, balanced well with medium full body, fruit flavors also starting to fade. A great wine that would have peaked three years ago but still very
drinkable. (90)
Oct. 11th, '12 Spain & Portugal #1, 2011 Valemesio Branco, Vinho Verde, Portugal $11. Water white in color, mixed citrus aromas, slightly acidic but
fresh balance, very slightly "frizzante", light body with pear flavors through medium length finish. (84) #2, 2009 Con Class, Verdejo, Rueda, Spain $9.50.
Pale golden color, nose closed, slightly acidic balance, light body, short on flavor and short on finish. (78) #3, 2009 Faustino VII, Rioja,
Spain $11. Ruby plum color, sweet raspberry aromas, balance "flabby", medium weight body, cherry flavors through medium short finish. (87)
#4, 2006 Condo Neo Sentido, Tempranillo, Ribera del Douro, Spain $18.50. Dark plum color, cherry, blackberry and licorice aromas, well balanced, medium full
weight body, dark fruit flavors through mid palate, long finish. A great wine. (94) #5, 2005 Las Pizarras, Grenache (100 yr. old vines), Calatayud,
Spain $17.50. Crimson color, varietal aroma, very slight acidic balance, fruit flavors fading, long finish. Still very drinkable but past it's prime. (84)
(Two semesters ago the wine was rated 92.) #6, 2002 Post Scriptum De Chryseia, Douro, Portugal $14. Brick red color, nose closing down, acidic balance, flavors fading fast, short finish. Past it's
prime and not recommended. (68) #7, NV Ferreira, Tawny Port, Portugal $19.50. Aromas of sweet black cherry ans oak, well balanced with massive
body, cherry flavors through it's long finish. Great, for a cold winters night. (91)
Oct. 18th, '12 Italy #1, 2011 Alto Livello, Pinot Grigio, Umbria $8. Water white in color, melon aromas, medium body
with good balance, straight forward honeydew flavor with short finish. Needs two more years. (84) #2, 2010
Cantene Fontezoppa, Verdicchio di Matelica, Marches $14.50. Very pale straw color, light floral nose, crisp acidity, mixed
subdued citrus flavors, short finish. Needs another year. (87) #3, 2008 Roccaperciata, Syrah, Sicily $17.
Ruby color with raspberry and red currant on nose, balance slightly acidic, medium body weight, mild fruit flavors. I don't
think this wine will improve. (86) #4, 2007 Parusso Barolo, Piedmont $36. New style Barolo with dark crimson
color, black cherry and oak aromas, fine tannins, medium full body, dark fruit flavors through mid palate, long finish. Drinking
well now but will improve over next 5 years and who knows after that. (WA-94) (93) #5, 2003 Serpico Feudi San Gregorio,
Aglianico di Taurasi, Campania $34.50. Dark plum color, strong dark fruit aroma plus leather and oak, very fine tannins, fruit
and wood flavors through long finish. If possible it might even be better in three years. (WS-90) (94) #6, 2001
La Chiuse. Brunello di Montalcino $37.50. Brick to crimson in color, aromas of cherrys, violets and brush, perfect balance,
cherry flavors evolve seamlessly through long finish. Great now and for next 5 years. (96) #7, 2000 Grattamaco,
Bolgheri Superiore $36. One bad bottle, oxidized. Old brick in color, faint Cabernet varietal aroma, well balanced but also
well past it's prime. (75) #8, SPECIAL BOTTLE 2002 Le Pupille Saffredi, Maremma Toscana. Plum color,
dark fruit, leather and licorice aromas, very well balanced across medium body, fruit and wood flavors abound through mid
palate, long finish. This wine is right at it's peak now and great. (WA-92, WS-92) (95)
Oct. 25th, '12 South America #1, 2011 Vina Casablanca, Nimbus Estate, Sauvignon Blanc, Casablanca, Chile $15. Clear
straw yellow in color, dried lemon and minerality on the nose, lime and tart apple flavors, short finish. (82)
#2, 2008 Bodega Lurton, Torrontes, Mendoza, Argentina $8.15. Pale golden color, aromas of Muscat and litchi, fresh acidity,
medium full body, mixed citrus flavors, medium finish. WA-89 A bargain at $8.15. (90) #3, 2010 Finca La Boca, Malbec, Mendoza,
Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina $10.50. Dark Crimson in color, smells of earthy underbrush and bramble, light fine tannins across medium body,
flavors of dark fruit, medium length finish. (87) #4, 2010 Battle Axe, Malbec, Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
$16.50. Dark cherry red with violet hues, aromas of cherries, blackberries and plums, well balanced, full fruit flavors all the
way through its medium long finish. The class favorite. (93) #5, 2008 Clo de Los Siete, Malbec/Cab. Blend,
Mendoza, Argentina $14.99. Dark plum in color, aroma of dark cherries, fine tannins, slight acid in balance, mixed dark fruit
flavors but fading, medium finish. Was much better in earlier semesters. (86) #6, 2009 Lamadrid, Bonara, Agrelo,
Mendoza, Argentina $15. Very dark purple color, smells of mixed dark fruit, light well integrated tannins, fruit forward flavors
across mid palate, medium length finish. Will be better in 2 years. (88) #7, 2007 Lauca Reserva Carmenere, Maule
Valley, Chile $12. Inky dark in color, aromas of cherry, oak and vanilla, good balance, medium weight body, cherry and mixed
dark fruit flavors through medium long finish. Drinking well now and for next 3 years. (92)
Nov. 1st, '12 Australia & New Zealand #1, 2011 Faultline, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $11. Water white in color,
aromas of grapefruit and mineral, fresh crisp acidity, light body, grapefruit and other citrus flavors, short finish. (88)
#2, 2011 Rosemont, Traminer/Riesling, S.E. Australia $9. very light golden color, varietal smells, low acidity, high
glycerin level, medium light body, green apple flavor, short finish. A interesting wine. (84) #3, 2010 Yalumba,
wild ferment Chardonnay, Eden Valley, South Australia $18. Pale straw in color, mandarin and lemon zest on nose, medium weight
body, creamy, buttery, oaky flavors, short finish. (90) #4, 2008 Gemtree Vineyards, "Tadpole" Shiraz, McLaren
Vale, South Australia $10.50. Dark plum color, dark fruit aromas, fruit forward, jammy flavors through medium finish. Drinking
well now and will last another 3 to 5 years. (89) #5, 2010 Terlato & Chapoutier, Shiraz/Viognier, Victoria, Australia $15.99.
Inky dark colors, low key varietal nose, strong structure, well balanced, dark fruit flavors, medium long finish. I think this
wine will open up and be great in 2 to 3 years. (93) #6, 2009 Rosemont Shiraz/Cab. Sauv., S.E. Australia $9.
Dark plum color, black fruit and coffee aromas, plum and coffee flavors, full bodied, medium finish. Drinking well now. (87)
#7, 2010 d'Arenberg, "The Stump Jump" GSM, McLaren Vale, South Australia $19.50. Crimson color, aromas of raspberry and
blueberries, well balanced with plum, white pepper and licorice flavors, medium finish. Drinking well now but probably not a
wine to cellar. (88)
Nov. 8th, '12 California & N.W. #1, 2008 Firesteed Riesling, Salem Oregon $13.50. Pale straw in color, aromas of lemon
rind, mandarin orange and melon, smooth, glycerin feeling structure, medium weight body, melon flavors, medium length finish.
Only 10.4% alcohol. Drinking well now and for next three years. (90) #2, 2008 Conundrum (Caymus), Napa $19.50.
Deep straw color, Oak and Chardonnay smells, well balanced, mild, fruit forward flavors, finished short. Drink now. (84)
#3, 2007 Simi Zinfandel, Sonoma $15.25. Crimson in color, aromas of dark fruit and white pepper, slightly acidic, fruit
forward blackberry flavor through medium length finish. (82) #4, 2004 Hartwell Estate, "Miste Hill" Cab. Sauv.,
Stags Leap District, Napa $31.50. Inky dark plum color, aromas of dark cherry, oak and smoked meat, strong structure, well
balanced with fine integrated tannins, layers of flavors of black currant through mid palate, medium long finish. A blockbuster
now and will easily last another 5 or 6 years. (97) #5, 2005 Hartwell Estate, Merlot, Stags Leap, Napa $31.50.
Very dark plum color, raspberry and jam aromas, well balanced, medium weight body with fine tannins, cherry flavors through
medium length finish. Drink now. (88) #6, 2005 Merryvale "Starmont" Merlot, Napa $21. Smells of mixed dark fruit
and oak, medium body, mild dark fruit flavors along with soft tannins that remained through finish. (87) #7,
2005 Testarossa, "Subasio" Syrah, Santa Lucia Highlands $27. Very dark plum color, black cherry with licorice aromas, strong
structure, well balanced full bodied, dark cherry flavors, medium length finish. (88)
Nov. 15th, '12 Blind Tasting Six varietals, no perfect scores. Five winners: Joe Boyce, Katherine LaHart, Kathy Brewster,
Stephen Clifford, Allison Rodgers
Nov. 29th, '12 Champagne Night No Tasting Notes. #1, NV Heidsieck Monopole, "Blue Top" $32.99.
#2. NV Victoire Prestige, by G.H.Martell $29.99. #3, NV Saint Bonnet, Nuits St. George (Burgundy) $16.50.
#4. NV G.H. Mumm, Cordon Rouge, $39.99. #5, Mumm Napa Brut Prestige $17.99. #6, Louis Bouillot, Blanc de Blancs, (Burgundy) $17.99.
#7, Louis Bouillot, Blanc de Noirs $17.99.
2013 Spring Semester,
Feb. 14th, '13 1st Night - The styles of Chardonnay. #1, 2011 Yalumba, "unwooded" Chardonnay, S. Australia $19.99. Water
white color, subdued varietal aroma, slight acidity at first taste yet a touch of sweetness at mid palate, medium weight body,
needs at least 2 years to open up. (87) #2, 2010 Louis Jadot, Pouilly Fuisse, Maconnais, France $20. Very pale straw
color, varietal aroma plus a hint of apple on the nose, medium light body with pear and mineral flavors, long finish. Should be
excellent in 2 years. (90) #3, 2010 Carmen, Grand Reserva Chard., Casablanca, Chile $14.99. Light straw color,
oak aroma, good balance and structure but short on flavors, medium body. Drink now and for next 2 years. (85)
#4, 2010 St. Francis, Sonoma County $14.99. Light straw color, mild wood and vanilla aromas, medium body, good balance, wood
flavors right through finish. (88) #5, 2009 Murphy Goode, California blend $14.99. Straw color, nose
closed down, medium light body, balance slightly acidic, medium length finish. Drink now but not recommended. (78)
#6, 2010 Shilo, Judean Hills, Israel (Kosher),Pale color, pronounced vanilla aromas, very slightly acidic balance, medium
weight body with peach flavors, finish short. (88) #7, 2009 Grgich Hills, Napa Valley $30. Pale golden color,
varietal aroma plus buttery smells, perfect balance, medium weight body with seamless fruit flavors through mid palate, finish
long. Drinking well now and will for another 6 years. (The class favorite.)(92)
Feb. 21st, '13 - Bordeaux. #1, 2006 Ch. La Louviere, Pessac- Leognan, $26. Pale golden color, varietal and vegetal
aromas, slightly low acisity for sauv. blanc, light weight in body, light mixed fruit flavors with short finish. (84)
#2, 2006 Ch. Couhins Lurton, Pessac-Leognan, 100% sauv. blanc, $25. Light golden color, aromas of hay and grasses, well balanced,
with medium light body, melon flavors through medium length finish. (88) #3, 2003 Ch. Mazeris, Canon Fronsac,
Merlot/Cab. Franc, $26.50. Older brick in color, aromas of black cherry, slightly acid in balance, medium in body, flavors faded,
short finish. Not Recommended, (75) #4, 2009 Ch. Virecourt Pillebourse, Bordeaux Superieur, $20. Plum
color, blackberry and cherry aromas, cood balance, medium full in body, mixed dark fruit flavors through mid palate, finished
long. A great wine for the price. Drink now through 2016. (90) #5, 2008 Ch. l'Enclos, Pomerol, 16 mos. in oak,
$40. Dark plum color, black currant and cassis aromas, medium full body, good structure and balance with fine tannins running
throgh the dark fruit flavors, finished long. Approachable now but better in two years, will last another 6 years. (92)
#6, 2003 Ch. Coutet, Sauternes-Barsac, (Premiere cru in 1855) $45. Light golden color, honeysuckle aromas, full bodied
with a strong structure and glycerin smoothness, sweet but not cloying, seamless fruit flavors through long finish. Drinking
well now, could last another 10 years. Classic (95)
Feb. 28th, '13 - Rhone #1, 2006 Domaine de Beaurenard, Cotes du Rhone, $15. Crimson in color, fresh cherry aromas, well
balanced with fine tannins, medium weight body, mild dark fruit flavors, finished short. Drink now. (85)
#2, 2008 Domaine Le Sang des Cailloux, Vacqueyras $28.50. Dark plum color, aromas of dark fruit, pepper and oak, medium full
body, strong structure with a blast of dark fruit flavors that evolve through mid palate and long finish. Drinking well now and
for the next 6 or 8 years. (94) #3, 2010 Perrin & Fils, Vinsobres, Les Cornuds $19.99. Light plum color, mild
black cherry and blueberry aromas plus a minerality smell, medium body with a slight acidic bite, syrah varietal flavors,
finished long. (87) #4, 2009 Vidal-Fleury, Ventoux $15. Dark plum color, smells of sweet black cherries and syrah
varietal aroma, strong structure, medium full weight body, strong up front flavor of Mouvedre, finished long. (88)
#5, 2009 Domaine des Senchaux, Chateauneuf-du-Pape $40. Light plum color, Grenache varietal aroma plus subdued dark fruit, well
balanced with slightly harsh tannins that follow you right through mid palate and long finish. This wine shows great potential to drink starting
in 5 years. (91) #6, 2003 Maison Bouchon, Saint Joseph $25.99. (We had one slightly oxidized bottle.) Medium
brick in color, weak, closed down syrah varietal aromas, medium full body, fading fruit forward flavors, medium length finish.
This wine was past it's prime. No longer recommended. (76) #7, (SPECIAL BOTTLE) 1999 Nobles Rives, Hermitage,
$7 per glass. Older brick in color, aromas of mixed dark fruit and dried flowers, well balanced, medium weight body, seamless
fruit through mid palate and long finish. Drinking well now but not to be cellared further. (92)
March 7th, '13 - Spain & Portugal #1, 2011 Valemesio Branco, Vinho Verde, Portugal $11.99. Water white in color, floral
aromas, light in body with a fresh, crisp acidity, short finish. Drinking well now and for next three years. (85)
#2, 2011 Finca El Encinal, (Single Vineyard) Tempranillo, Ribera del Duero $14.99. Dark garnet in color, aromas of blackberry
and other dark fruit, medium weight body, well balanced with fine tannins and dark fruit flavors through medium length finish.
Will improve for two years and last 4 more. (89) #3, 2008 Dinastia Vivanco, Rioja (Crianza) $16. Light plum color,
varietal aroma, slightly acidic in balance, medium body, dark fruit flavors through mid palate, finished long. (86)
#4, 2011 Garnacha de Fuego, (Old Vine) Navarra $13.95. Dark plum color, sweet dark cherry aromas, well balanced, medium full
body, fruit forward and one dimensional with short finish. Drinking well now but not a keeper. (82) #5, 2010
Evodia, Grenache, Calatayud $10. Brick in color, light cherry aroma, medium light body, fruit forward with fine tannins, finished
short. (79) #6, 2010 Quo, Grenache, Campo de Borja $11.99. Plum color, dark fruit aromas with a hint of vanilla,
medium full body, good structure and balance with mixed dark fruit flavors that last through mid palate, medium long finish.
Drinking well now and for next 5 years. Class favorite. (91) #7, N.V. Offly, Tawny Port $9.75. Inky purple
in color, massive body with sweet fruit flavors that build through mid palate, a finish that lasts and lasts. A great wine now
for a snowy night or after a big dinner. (88)
March 14th, '13 - Italy #1, 2009 Alba Rossa, Salento Primitova, Apulia $14.00. Brick color, raspberry aromas plus a
little smoked meat smell, medium weight body, fruit forward with very fine tannins through short finish. Drink now and for 2 years,
(85) #2, 2008 Ducca Di Sasseta, Chianti Reserva, $14.99. Plum color, dark cherry aroma with pronounced oak smells,
medium body with good balance, mild fruit flavors with a trace of bitterness, short finish. (86) #3, 2009 Barone
Fini, Merlot, Trentino $12. Dark plum color, cherry, blueberry and cassis aromas, medium body, well balanced, flavors became
short lived, medium length finish. Drinking well now and for next 3 to 4 years. (88) #4, 2008 Fratta Pasini,
Valpolicella "Ripasso", Venato $18. Light plum in color, sharp black cherry aromas, medium body, well balanced, dried fruit
flavors through mid palate, finish medium long. Drink now to 2018. (90) #5, 2007 Roccaperciata, Nero Mascalese,
Sicily $14.99. Dark brick color, blackberry aroma, balance slightly acidic, rustic, unfinished flavors through short finish.
I'm glad I tried it but not recommended. (76) #6, 2004 Del Fuedi Di San Gregorio, Taurasi, Compania $35. (Lists for $45) Inky
black in color, dark cherry and cassis aromas, perfect balance across strong structure, full bodied, massive dark fruit flavors
through mid palate and even through long finish. The wine is now 9 years old and still improving. (The class favorite.) Drink
now through 2029. (97) SPECIAL BOTTLE 1998 Corino Barolo, "Vigna Giachini", Piedmont (price over $100).
Dark crimson color, lush mixed dark fruit aromas, full bodied, still tannic after 15 years, huge fruit flavors through mid palate,
long finish. Fifteen years old and probably will last another twenty. Drinking very well now but will those tannins ever smooth out?
(94)
March 21st, '13 - South America #1, 2010 Carmen Chardonnay, Gran Reserva, Casablanca Valley, Chile $14.99. Pale golden color,
aroma of peaches plus varietal smell, slightly acidic in balance, medium light weight in body, fruit forward in flavor with
medium short finish. May improve slightly in a few years. (87) 2009 Mont Gras, Cab. Sauv., Colchauga Valley, Chile
$9.99. Very dark plum color, aromas of raspberry and other dark fruits, strong structure with medium fine tannins, well balanced,
medium body, mixed fruit flavors through mid palate, finished long. Hold for 4 to 5 years. A great bargain wine. (91)
#3, 2010 Carmen Carmenere, Gran Reserva, Apalta Vineyard, Colchagua Valley, Chile $14.99. Inky dark in color, aromas of sweet
black cherry, well balanced, medium body with fine tannins, flavors of dried fruit, olives and chocolate, medium length finish.
Will improve for another three years. The class liked this one. (90) #4, 2008 Casa Del Toque, Carmenere "Peumo",
Gran Reserva, Cashapoal Valley, Chile $15. Dark plum cplor, aromas of black fruit, spices, pepper, well balanced, medium weight
body, smooth fruit flavors through long finish. Drinking well now but not a keeper. (88) #5, 2008 Clo de Los Siete,
(56% Malbec, 21% Syrah, 12% Cab. Sauv., 11% Petit Verdot) Mendoza, Argentins $14.99. Dark plum color, aromas of black cherry
and blackberry, well balanced, medium full weight body, somewhat fruit forward flavors fading at mid palate, finished short.
This wine drinks ok now but is past it's peak. (85) #6, 2002 Catena Alta, Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina $25 (Lists
for $60). Dark crimson in color, aromas of cherry, wood and tar, perfect balance, medium body, mixed fruit flavors that evolve
seamlessly through mid palate and long finish. Over a decade old and drinking well now and probably for another 5 years (93)
March 28th, '13 - Australia & New Zealand #1, 2010 Arona, Sauv. Blanc (10% Riesling), Marlborough, NZ $12.99. Water white
in color, lemon rind aroma, medium light body, well balanced, the riesling added a whole new dimension to the flavors, medium
length finish. Drinking well now and for next three years. (88) #2, 2008 Sea Breeze, Sauv. Blanc, East Coast, NZ
$11. Pale golden color, aroma of cat pee and gooseberry, lacking acid the structure was dull and fat, slight mineral flavor
through very short finish. Drinkable but not recommended. (67) #3, 2011 Cloudy Bay, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough,
NZ $25. Pale white color, huge aromas of tropical fruit, kiwi and grapefruit, great balance with crisp acidity, assortment
of tropical fruit flavors through long finish. Drinking well now and for next four years. (92) #4, 2006 Carrick
"Unravelled", Pinot Noir, Central Otago $15. Crimson in color, raspberry aromas, well balanced, light body, very mild dark fruit
flavors, medium length finish. Probably past it's prime. Drink now. (82) #5, 2008 Marquis Philips, Grenache,
McLaren Vale, S. Australia $15.99. Light brick color, sharp burnt rubber and cherry smells, tasted "hot" from the 16% alcohol,
dusty cherry flavors. Not recommended, (69) #6, 2009 Terlato & Chapoutier, Shiraz (5% Viognier), Victoria, Australia
$15.99. Dark plum in color, pronounced black cherry aromas, well balanced with very fine tannins, full body, deep, full, cherry
flavors through mid palate and lingering into long finish. Drinking well now, will improve over next two years and last five
years after that. (93) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 1997 Penfolds Kalimna Bin 28, Shiraz, South Aostralia. Cost
today unknown. No longer available. Old brick color, browning at edges, smoked meat aromas, good balance, mixed dark fruit
flavors, medium length finish. Obviously past it's prime but still drinkable and not over the hill yet. Interesting but not
a keeper. Drink now. (84)
April 4th, '13 - California & North West #1, 2011 Meiomi, "Belle Glos", Pinot Noir, Monterey County $21. Dark violet
in color, black currant and cherry aromas, well balanced with fine tannins, medium light in body, flavors of mixed dark fruit,
finished short. Drinking well now and for next three years. (87) #2, 2010 Seghesio Family Vineyard, Zinfandel,
Sonoma County $24. Very dark ruby in color, aromas of candied black cherry and vanilla, good balance with fine tannins across
medium weight body, flavors of blackberry, blueberry and spice. Drink now and for next three years. (90) #3, 2006
St. Supery, Merlot, Rutherford, Napa $19.99. Dark brick color, aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg, well structured with cherry
flavors through mid palate. Drink now and for next three years. (89) #4, 2007 Kingsford Manor, Cab. Sauv. Reserve,
Napa $16.99. Plum color with aromas of raspberry and toasted oak, well balanced with flavors of blackberry and blueberry, long
finish. Drinking very well now and for next six years. A great buy for a low price. (93) #5, 2007 Atlas Peak,
Cab. Sauv., Napa $26.99. Dark plum color, black cherry aroma, strong structure with perfect balance, medium weight body, black
cherry flavors that last through mid palate and medium length finish. Good now and for next four years. (91)
#6, 2005 Testarossa, "Subasio", Syrah, Los Gatos $27. Inky dark color, smokey aromas of mixed dark fruit, soft cherry flavors
through medium long finish. I think this wine has peaked. Drink now. (85) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 1997 Beringer,
Merlot, Bancroft Ranch, Howell Mountain, Napa $9 per glass. Plum color, huge floral aromas, perfect balance, medium weight body,
dark fruit flavors that evolve through mid palate and through medium length finish. A great wine at it's peak. (95)
April 11th, '13 - Blind Tasting No tasting notes. (7 white wines tasted) 1st place winners - Allison Rodgers & Harry Kissig
April 18th, '13 - Champagne Night No tasting notes. #1, Perrier Jouet, Grand Brut $41.99. Light Chardonnay style.
#2, Mumm "Cordon Rouge", $39.99. Medium body style. #3, "Victoire" by G.H. Martell $29.99. Lighter style but highly
effervescent. #4, Mumm Napa, Brut Prestige $21.99. #5, Piper Sonoma $15.89. #6, Henry Varney, Samur, Loire Valley,
(Ugni Blanc) $11.99. #7, M Cote Mas, (Mauzac Grape) from Languedoc $13.99. Sweet, not recommended.
2013 Fall Semester,
Sep. 19, '13 - Riesling #1, 2007 Gunderloch, "Jean Baptiste" Kabinett, Rheinhessen $13.75. Pale straw in color, honeyed
apple aromas, flavors of apricot, off dry. Still drinking well, will last another 3 years. (Class favorite) (89) #2, 2007 Armand,
Kabinett, Pfalz $13.75. Light golden color, apple and pear aromas, semi-sweet, medium weight body, full fruit flavors. (88)
#3, 2008 Sagelands Vineyard, Colombia Valley, Washington $11. Light straw in color, soft melon aromas, overly acidic,
which ruined any fruit flavors. Not recommended. (61) #4, 2008 Fritz's Riesling, Rheinhessen $9.49. Pale golden
color, mild floral aromas, fresh, crisp acidity, off dry, apple and pear flavors. Drinking well now but not a keeper. (86)
#5, 2010 Gruen (QBA) Mosel $11. Water white in color, nose slightly closed, traces of honeysuckle, fresh acidity, light
flavors finished down. This wine needs a couple of years to develop. (85) #6, 2010 Chateau Tanunda, Grand Barossa,
South Australia $12. Light golden color, overwhelming acidity overpowered all aromas and flavors. Not Recommended. (50)
Sep. 26th, '13 - Bordeaux #1, Ch. Bonnet, Entree-Deux-Mers, (Sauv. Blanc/Semillon) $12. Very pale straw in color, crisp
acidity, medium light weight body, varietal flavors, finishing short. (84) #2, 2003 Ch. Simard, Saint Emilion,
$26. Dark garnet in color, aromas of black cherry and raspberry, mixed dark fruit flavors but still holding on to strong tannins.
Medium weight body, try again in 3 or 4 years. (83) #3, 2008 Ch. l'Enclos, Pomerol $40. Dark plum color, black
cherry and oak aromas, well balanced, layers of flavor through medium finish. Drinking well now and for next 5 years. (Class
Favorite) (93) #4, 2009 Ch. Timberlay, Bordeaux Superior $19. Very dark purple color, aromas of cherry, oak, vanilla,
well balanced, tons of mixed dark fruit flavors, medium body and length of finish. Drinking well now and for a long time into
the future. (91) #5, 2010 Ch, Poitevin, Medoc, cru bourgeois $20. Inky dark color, coffee, black pepper and oak
aromas, balance left this wine very dry, lots of fine tannins. Try this wine in another 3 years. (83) #6, 2005
Ch. Plince, Pomerol $39.50. Very dark plum color, cherry and blueberry aromas, balance tilted to the acidic side. For me it
ruined the rest of the wine. Medium weight body with fairly long finish. Not recommemded. (78)
Oct. 3rd, '13 - Rhone #1, 2011 La Ciboise, Luberon $13. Light ruby in color, mixed fruit bomb nose, well balanced with
light fruit flavors that last through medium finish. Drink now. (84) #2, 2009 Ventoux, Vidal-Fleury $15. Dark
plum in color, syrah varietal nose, medium weight body with silky tannins, dark fruit flavors, 30 second finish. Drinking well
now and for next 3-4 years. (90) #3, 2007 Terre des Lauzeraies, Cotes du Rhone $12. Dark plum color, aromas of
blackberry and black cherry, balance very acidic, short fruit flavors. Not recommended. (77) #4, 2008 Domaine Le Sang
des Cailloux, Vacqueyras, "Cuvee Lopy" $29. Inky dark garnet color, huge black cherry nose, well balanced across medium large
body, long finish. Drink now and for next 3 years. (92) #5, 2010 La Prince du Logis, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reserve,
Villes Vignes $26. Ruby color, cherry and raspberry aromas, well balanced with dark cherry flavors. Drink now. (Class Favorite)
(89) #6, 2007 Perrin & Fils, Les Sinards, Chateauneuf-du-Pape $38. (we had one bad bottle) Dark crimson in color, syrah varietal aroma
plus spices and cherry, perfect balance with fine tannins, flavors of plum, pepper and spices. At 14.5% alcohol, this wine may
drink well for another decade. (94) Special Bottle #7, 1999 E. Guigal, Hermitage. Plum color, browning at
edges, powerful syrah nose, layers of dark fruit flavors across medium full body, long finish. This bottle was full of sediment
and should have been decanted. (91)
Oct. 10th, '13 - Spain & Portugal #1, 2011 Valemesio Branco, Vinho Verde, Portugal $11.99. Water white in color, citrus
and floral notes on nose, light in body but extremely high in acid balance. Some of the students still liked it. (82)
#2, 2011 Sitios de Bodega Con Class, Rueda, Spain $9.99. Colorless with aromas of flowers, light in body, citrus flavors, sharp,
crisp acidity, short finish. (86) #3, 2008 Lagar de Robla, (Mencia) Castilla de Leon, Spain $13. Very deep plum
in color, mixed dark fruit aromas, medium weight body with sharp tannins, raspberry flavors through medium length finish. Half
the class liked it, half did not. (86) #4, 2010 Evodia (Grenache), Calatayud, Spain $10. Crimson in color, varietal
plus red fruit aromas, medium body, layers of fruit flavors changing at mid palate and lasting through medium long finish.
Drinking well now, the class favorite. (92) #5, 2010 Faustino VII, Rioja, Spain $9.99. Ruby color, aromas of
licorice, white pepper and light fruit, medium weight body with very fine tannins, red fruit flavors through medium length
finish. Drinking well now and for next 4 years. (91) #6, NV Ferreira, Tawny Porto, Portugal $20. Deep purple color slightly
browning at edge, licorice aroma, huge full body, sweet mixed dark fruit flavors through long finish. A great way to finish
a meal or just to sit by a fire on a winters night. (90)
Oct. 17th, '13 - Italy #1, 2008 Poggio al Moro, Bolgheri, Enrico Santi (Super Tuscan) $20. Extremly dark plum in color,
aromas of dark cherries and violets, well balanced with a silky texture and very fine tannins, layers of dark fruit flavors
through long finish. Drinking very well now and for next 5 years. (96) #2, 2011 Fuilot, Prunotto, Barbera D'Alba
$16. Dark plum color, blackberry aroma, slightly high acid in balance, medium weight body, fruity flavors, medium length finish.
(82) #3. 2008 Cannonau di Sardegna, Grenache Riserva, Sardinia $16. Dark crimson in color, interesting aromas of
white pepper and herbs, well balanced with medium body, Grenache varietal flavors, short finish. Drinking well now but not a
long time keeper. (88) #4, 2011 Rocca dei Bottari, Cab. Sauv./Syrah, Sicily $11. Dark purple color, straw and wood
aromas, acidic balance, sharp flavors with short finish. Not recommended. (76) #5, 2003 Fratta Pasini "AR"
Amarone Classico Riserva $45. Crimson red in color, black cherry aromas with hints of leather and licorice, balance slightly
sweet, even with it's 15% alcohol, full bodied with fine tannins, mixed dark fruit flavors that last through long finish. Drinking
well now and for next 5 years. (91) #6, 2006 Bertani, Villa "Arvedi" Amarone $45. Plum color, licorice aroma,
good balance, full body, massive dark fruit flavors through long finish. Drinking well now and for next 5 years, at least.
(91) Special Bottle 2004 Gattavecchi, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva. Crimson in color, slightly
browning at the edges, mixed dark fruit aromas, well balanced with dark fruit flavors through medium length finish. This was
once a great wine but now slightly past it's peak. (85)
Oct. 24th, '13 - South America #1, 2011 Castillo de Molina, Sauv. Blanc Reserva, Elqui Valley, Chile $11. Pale straw
color, fresh cut grass aroma plus hint of lemon rind, balance slightly sweet, light melon and vanilla flavors, finished short.
(82) #2, (#2 & #3 Tasted Blind) 2009 Donna Paula, "Los Cardos", Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina $15. Garnet color
plum and dark cherry aromas, well balanced but rustic tannins that lasted all the way through the medium length finish. I think
this wine will show much better in three years. Most of the class picked this one over the French Malbec. (86)
#3, 2010 Chateau du Caillau, Malbec, Cahors, France $14.50. Dark garnet color, soft dark fruit aromas, smoother structure
than the Argentine, mixed fruit flavors, short finish. Drinking well now but not a keeper. (84) #4, 2011 Casa
Del Toqui, Carmenere, Central Valley, Chile $9.99. Ruby color, aromas of cherry and raspberry, well balanced, mixed dark fruit
flavors, medium weight body, medium length finish. A light weight for drinking now. (81) #5, 2008 Graffigna,
Malbec Grand Reserve, San Juan, Argentina $12. Inky purple in color, varietal aroma plus plum, oak and vanilla, well balanced
with deep silky tannins, medium to full body, layers of huge dark fruit, long finish. Drinking great now and will improve over
next 5 years. (93) #6, 2010 Vina El Principal, Calicanto, Maipo Valley, Chile $15. A meritage style blend with
Cab. Sauv., Carmenere, Cab. Franc and Syrah. Dark plum in color, Cab. varietal aroma plus hints of blackberry, good balance,
smooth velvety fruits through mid palate, then gone, finish short. A very good wine to enjoy now but not a keeper. (82)
#7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 2006 Don Melchor, Concha y Toro, Puente, Chile (96% Cab. Sauv., 4% Cab. Franc) $75. Opaque purple
in color, blackcurrent aromas plus cedar, leather and mocha, layers of flavor through 60 second finish. Parker says this wine
should drink well through 2036. Don't wait. Parker gave it a 95, Spectator gave it a 94 but I gave it a (97)
Oct. 31st, '13 - Australia & New Zealand #1, 2010 Chateau Tanunda, Riesling "Grand Barossa", South Australia $12. Very
pale golden color, lime plus other citrus aromas, acidic balance, low key citrus flavors with slight minerality. Not recommended.
(60) #2, 2012 The Crossings, Sauv. Blanc, Atwater Valley, Marlborough, New Zealand $13. Water white in color, aromas
of gooseberry, well balanced with a fresh acidity, mild citrus flavors, finish short. This wine will improve over next three
years. (82) #3, 2008 Sea Breeze, Sauv Blanc, East Coast of North Island, New Zealand $13. Pale straw flavors, citrus
aromas, good balance, very mild citrus flavors with a couple of "off" flavors, short finish. If this wine ever had a prime,
I think it is now past it. (78) #4, 2010 Xanadu, "Next of Kin", Shiraz, Margaret River, Western Australia $15.
Dark plum color turning crimson at edges, dark fruit aromas with a touch of oak, strong structure with good balance, medium
weight in body, red fruit flavors with hints of Indian spices, medium length finish. Drinking well now and over next three years.
(86) #5, 2010 Layer Cake, Shiraz, South Australia $16.50. Dark plum in color, spicy black plum and cherry aromas,
soft fine tannins across layers of spicy dark fruit flavors, finish long. Drinking well now and for next 5 years. (90)
#6, 2007 Henry's Drive, "Parsons Flat", (57% Shiraz, 43% Cab. Sauv.), Padthaway, South Australia $30. Very deep garnet
color, intense black cherry, blackberry and cassis aromas, full bodied with good balance, layers of fruit flavor and a generous
finish. The class favorite and with it's 15% alcohol, this wine can last a long, long time. (93)
Nov. 7th, '13 - California and the Northwest #1, 2012 Byron, Chardonnay, Santa Barbara $15. Very pale golden color, a
nose of honey, vanilla and spices, well balanced with crisp fruit flavors and a mineral finish. Will last another 5 years. (88)
#2, 2008 Et Fille, Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $23.49. Ruby color, cherry and raspberry aromas, good balance but
light structure, red fruit flavors. Drink now. (87) #3, 2010 Seghesio Family Vineyards, Zinfandel, Sonoma County
$24. Dark plum color, blackberry aromas, medium weight body with much tannic acid present, dark fruit flavors through mid palate.
With the tannins and the 14.8% alcohol, this wine needs 2 to 3 years more in the bottle. (88) #4 2010 Minassian
Young Vineyards, Zinfandel, Paso Robles $14.99. Plum in color, big cherry aroma, well balanced with mixed dark fruit flavors
through the medium length finish. Drinking great now but not a long time keeper. (90) #5, 2009 Ehlers Estate,
Cabernet Franc, Napa $26.99. Plum color, black raspberry and red plum aromas, well balanced but with sharp biting tannins, dark
cherry flavor, medium length finish. Probably needs more time but those tannins were unpleasant. (81) #6, 2009
St, Clement, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa $22.99. Opaque in color, strong Cab. varietal aroma plus hints of mocha and licorice,
great structure and balance with fine well integrated tannins, mixed dark fruit flavors that last through mid palate, long
finish. (93) #7, 2008 Coda by Cadence, Meritage, Red Mountain, Washington $19.99. Plum color, plum and dried
cherries aromas, good balance with a hint of fresh acidity, dried dark fruit flavors with a touch of dusky earth and slate
minerality, medium length finish. Drinking well now but probably not a candidate for the cellar. (90)
Nov. 14th, '13 - Blind Tasting No tasting notes. Grand prize winners, picked 6 out of 6 right. Lynda Glick and Tony
Gardner. Congrats.
Nov. 21st, '13 - Champagne Night No tasting notes. The class favorites: Mumm "Cordon Rouge" and Roederer Estate.
2014 Spring Semester,
Feb. 27th, '14 - Loire Valley Wines #1, 2011 Sauvion, Muscadet Sevre et Maine $11.99. Water white in color, mild melon
aromas, very slight acidic balance, light weight body, flavors that last through mid palate, medium length finish. Will improve
over next two years. (87) #2,2012 Ch. De la Presle, Touraine, Sauv. Blanc $17.65. Pale golden color, mixed citrus
aromas, slightly acidic (even for Sauv. Blanc), light to medium body weight, short citrus flavors, short finish. (83)
#3, 2011 Ch. De la Routerie, Anjou, Chenin Blanc $14.99. Pale straw in color, mixes light fruit aromas with a hint of a
vegetal smell, good balance and structure, medium to full body, fruit flavors last through medium length finish. (90)
#4, 2011 Auguste Bonhomme, "La Forcine", Vouvray, Chenin Blanc Demi Sec $12.99. Very pale in color, aromas of
honeysuckle, very sweet (as expected), medium weight body, light honeyed fruit flavors, long finish. Will last another 5 or 6
years. Not my style wine. (80) #5, 2012 Chais St. Laurent, Chinon, Cabernet Franc $17.65. Ruby outer layer with
plum color inner layer, blackberry and cherry aromas, very slight acid in balance, medium weight body and structure, light
fruit flavors, short finish. Should improve over next few years. (87)
Mar. 6th, '14 - Bordeaux #1, 2012 Ch. Tessyier Pezat (Bordeaux Blanc) $14.99. Very pale gold in color, big floral nose,
strong structure with crisp acidity, medium to light weight in body, citrus flavors through mid palate, medium length finish.
This wine will improve over next two years. (89) #2, 2011 Ch. Bonnet (Bordeaux Blanc) $11.99. Pale straw in color
pear aromas, balance slightly sweet (for a Sauv. Blanc), medium weight body, citrus flavor is straight forward, short finish.
Drink now to 1 year. (81) #3, 2009 Ch. Bonnet (Bordeaux Rouge)$11.99. Color crimson to dark plum center, mild
blackberry aromas, fine tannins, medium body, fruit flavors were one dimensional, finished short. Drink now. (83)
#4, 2010 Ch. Paret, Castillon $13.99. Dark plum in color, cherry and raspberry aromas, good structure and balance with well
integrated but strong tannins, finished long. This wine will improve over the next two years and last five after that. (91)
#5, 2010 Ch. Florie Aude, "Cuvee Luciere" $13.99. Plum color, cherry aroma, well balanced with light fine tannins, medium
body, fruit flavors through mid palate, medium length finish. Drinking well now but better in two years. (90)
#6, 2008 Ch. l'Eclos, Pomerol $40. (The Class Favorite) Dark plum color, strong cherry and raspberry aromas, perfect balance
with fine tannins, layers of fruit flavor through mid palate and into the long finish. A beautiful wine now and for next four
years. (94)
Mar. 13th, '14 - Rhone #1, 2010 Domaine Galevan, Cotes du Rhone Blanc, $23.99. Very pale straw in color, floral aromas
with fresh cut grass smell also, strong structure, well balanced with sharp, fresh acidity, flavors lasted through mid palate.
Medium length finish. A little pricy and it needs another 2 years to develop. (87) #2, 2009 Arnoux et Fils,
"Vieux Clocher", Vacqueyras, WA-90, $17.99. Crimson color, raspberry aromas, well balanced, light red fruit flavors, medium
length finish. Drinking ok now but will improve in a few years. (90) #3, 2009 Vidal-Fleury, Ventoux $15. Dark
plum in color, syrah varietal aroma plus blackberry, strong structure, spicy mixed dark fruit flavors. Great value for the buck.
(88) (BIG Mistake, I brought the wrong bottles. I mixed them up with another CDP) #4, 2007 Ch. Gignognan, "Clos du Roi" Chateauneuf-du-Pape, WS-93,WA-91, $33.
Crimson color, huge blackberry aromas, well balanced, medium weight body, dark fruit flavors that lasted through mid palate,
medium length finish. (90) #5, 2007 Domaine de Beaurenard, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, WS-95, WA-92, $32.99. Dark Garnet
color, aromas of black cherry, still showing powerful tannins, mixed dark fruit flavors through long finish. Probably will turn
out to be a great wine in 5 years. (93) SPECIAL BOTTLE #6, 2000 Gambert De Loche, Hermitage, $76. Inky dark plum
in color, big aromas of licorice, tar and smoked meat, huge mouth filling body with sweet fine tannins, layers of dark fruit
flavors that last through 90 second finish. A great wine now and for the next 10 or 15 years. (97)
Mar. 20th, '14 - Spain & Portugal #1, 2010 Izadi, (Viura varietal) Rioja $13.99. Water white in color, floral and melon
aromas, light in body with crisp acidity, citrus flavors through mid palate, short finish. (87) #2, 2008 Cuatro Pasos,
(Mencia varietal) Bierzo $11.79. Deep crimson color, red fruit aromas with tar, flavors of creme de cassis and blueberry, medium
weight body. Great value. (88) #3, 2006 Marco Real, (Temp. / Cab.) Crianza, Navarra $10.99. Dark crimson color,
mixed dark fruit aromas, weak structure tasting thin and slightly acidic with fine tannins. (81) #4, 2007 Vina
Eguia, Rioja Reserva $15.99. crimson color, aromas of herbs and tobacco, medium body with good balance, cherry and dark fruit
flavors through mid palate. (91) #5, 2007 Marques de Marrieta, Rioja Reserva $24.34. Crimson color, intense red
fruit aromas with touch of oak, well balanced, layers of red fruit flavors, finished long. Class favorite. (93)
#6, NV Ferreira Tawny Port $22. Deep ruby color, aromas of dark fruit and oak, massive body weight, sweetness balanced with
acidity, dark fruit flavors that linger through very long finish. (90)
Mar. 27th, '14 - Italy #1, 2011 Poggio Anima, "Gabriel", Greco, Basilicata $13.99. Pale golden color, herbaceous aramatics,
fresh crisp acidity, citrus flavors, light in body and finish. Drinking well now and for next three years. (87)
#2, 2012 Marchesi di Barolo, "Servaj", Dolcetto, Langhe, Piedmont $13.99. Intense ruby red color, fruity aromas with hint of almonds,
balance slightly high in acid, strong tannins, red fruit flavors. Needs a few years to develop. (83) #3, 2011
Rubrato Irpinia, Feudi San Gregorio, Aglainico, Compania $15.99. Dark ruby color, rich aromas of red berries with hints of cherry
and strawberry, red fruit flavors continue through mid palate, medium length finish. Drinking well now but will improve over
next two years and then last another five. (91) #4, 2005 Poderi Colla, Barolo, Dardi Le Rose Bussia $33.01. Dark
crimson in color, dark fruit and tar aromas, well balanced with fairly strong tannins, levels of dark fruit flavors, long finish.
Drinking well now and for next 8 or 10 years. (88) #5, 2004 Giovanni Rosso, Barolo "La Serra" $33.50. Bright garnet
red in color, aromas of violet with hints of licorice, perfect balance, layers of dark cherry and plum flavors through mid
palate and continuing through long finish. Excellent to drink now and for a few years. (94) #6, 2005 Recchia
"Ca Bertoldi", Amarone $31.99. Very dark plum color, aromas of dried fruit and smoked meats, huge, mouth filling body, loaded
with dark fruit flavors through mid palate and very long finish. A joy to drink right now. (92) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE,
1998 Tenuta Friggiali, Brunello di Montalcino. (No Price) Crimson color, off "barnyard" aromas, medium weight body with dried
out fruit flavors. Not reccomended. (67)
Apr. 3rd, '14 - South America #1, 2009 Mannos Negras, Cab. Sauv., Maipo, Chile $11.99. Dark plum color, black cherry
aromas, medium body weight with good balance and fine tannins, dried fruit flavors thinning out at mid palate. (86)
#2, 2011 Estampa Estate, Cab. blend, Colchagua, Chile $12.99. Very dark purple in color, aromas of blackberry, blueberry and
oak, well balanced, mixed dark fruit flavors, medium long finish. Drinking well now and for next 3 years. (89)
#3, 2008 Casas Del Toque, "Peumo" Grand Reserve Carmenere, Cachapaol, Chile $13.99. Dark garnet color, raspberry, dried fruit
and herbs on the nose, well balanced, medium body with red fruit flavors through mid palate. Drinking well now. (89)
#4, 2010 Valle Perdido, Malbec, Patagonia, Argentina $15.99. Plum color, aromas of dark fruit, a strong structured wine with
moderate tannins, mixed dark fruit flavors through medium long finish. Needs another 2 to 5 years in cellar but will be worth
the wait. (90) (#5 & #6 tasted blind) #5, 2009 Chateau Le Reyne, Malbec, Cahors, France $19.50. Inky black
in color, cassis aroma, slightly acidic in balance, fine tannins, thinning dark fruit flavors, short finish. (84)
#6, 2010 Finca el Origen, Malbec Reserva, Uco Valley Mendoza, Argentina $11.99. Dark plum color, red fruit, plum aromas with
hint of vanilla, well balanced with mixed fruit flavors that lasted through mid palate, finished long. The class preferred this
wine over the Cahors. Drinking well now and for next 3 years. (91) SPECIAL BOTTLE #7, 2006 Don Melchor, Cab. Blend, Concha
Y Torro, Puente Alto, Chile. Deep violet in color, aromas of dark cherry that linger, perfect balance with layers of dark fruit
flavors that last through very long finish. A great wine, now and for many, many more years. (96)
Apr. 10th, '14 - Australia & New Zealand #1, 2011 Nine Walks, Sauv. Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $11.99. Water white in color,
mild citrus aromas, light in body, balance leaning towards acidity (even for a Sauv. Blanc), lime and other citrus flavors,
short finish. (86) #2, 2012 Mohua, Pinot Noir, Central Otago, NZ $14.99. Light ruby color, cherry and brown spice aromas, well
balanced with very fine tannins, lean red fruit flavors through medium length finish. Drink now and for next two years. (87)
#3, 2010 Mount Langi Ghiran, "Billi Billi" Shiraz, Victoria, Australia $13.99. Plum color, deep dark cherry aromas, well
balanced across strong structure, medium to full weight body, dark fruit flavors through mid palate. Drink now through 2018.
A great value wine. (91) #4, 2008 Penfolds, Koonunga Hill (Shiraz/Cab. Sauv.), SE Australia $11.99. Deep purple
color, plum and red fruit aromas, balance tasted low in acidity, medium weight body, cherry and blueberry flavors. Drink now.
(86) #5, 2007 Henry's Drive, "Parson's Flat" (Shiraz/Cab. Sauv.), Padthaway, South Australia $30. Very dark plum
color, aromas of cherry, Asian spices and fennel, well balanced across strong structure, lingering blackcurrant flavors, medium
length finish. Drinking well now and for many years to come. (Class favorite.) (93) #6, 2011 Torbreck, "The Bothie",
Muscat (Desert wine.) Barossa Valley, South Australia $14.99. (375 ml bottles) Water white in color, aromas of pine, lime, melon
and lychee, sweet balance, creamy vanilla and melon flavors, medium length finish. Although drinking well now this beauty will
improve over next five years and last a decade after that. (91)
Apr. 17th, '14 - California & North West #1, 2010 Terlato, Pinot Grigio, Russian River Valley $14.99. Very pale straw
color, mineral aromas, well balanced with fresh melon and pear flavors. Good value. (87) #2, 2010 Windsor Sonoma,
Chardonnay, Russian River Valley $11.99. Light golden color, tropical fruit aromas, creamy texture. Great value wine. (87)
#3, 2011 A to Z, Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $18.99. Light ruby color, aromas of cherry, tobacco and smoke, cherry
and red fruit flavors. Perhaps a little on the light side. (88) #4, 2009 Stone Barn, Merlot, CA AVA $9.99. Garnet
in color, raspberry aroma, good balance but harsh tannins, mixed dark fruit flavors. Not a keeper. (84) #5 2011
Louis M. Martini, Cab. Sauv., Sonoma County $15.99. Deep purple color, plum and spice aromas, well balanced and good structure
with fine silky tannins, mixed dark fruit flavors but short finish. (90) #6, 2006 Ravenswood, Zinfandel, Barricia
Vineyard $18.99 ($34.99 in PA). (We had one bad bottle. Musty aroma and taste.) Dark garnet in color, red fruit flavors
with well integrated tannins, slightly "hot" from 15.5% alcohol. Will last another 5 years. (86) #7, 2010 Shannon
Ridge, Petite Sirah, Lake County $12.99. (Retail price $23) Color opaque, aromas of blackberry, blueberry, vanilla oak, massive
body, well balanced with fine tannins and blueberry pie flavors through very long finish. Class favorite. Will improve over next
2 or 3 years and then last another decade. (95)
Apr. 24th, '14 - Blind Tasting Grand Prize Winner, Lynda Glick, 2nd Place Winners, Liz Brachelli and Debora Alcott,
3rd Place Winners, Gary DiDomenico and Thomas Fiumefreddo. Congrats to all.
May 1st, '14 - Champagne & Sparkling Wine Party, complete with Sabrage. - No tasting notes. Class favorites, the French Champagnes.
2014 Fall Semester,
Sep. 18, '14 - Languedoc - Roussillon #1, 2012 Domaine Lafage, "Nicolas", Grenache, Cotes Catalanes $16.99. Dark crimson in color, aromas of plum and cherry, simple, fruit forward flavors, balance slightly sweet, short finish. Not a keeper. Drink now. (86) #2, 2012 Tessellae, 100% Carignan, Vielles Vignes, Cotes Catalanes $16.99. Very dark plum to crimson in color, raspberry aromas, medium body weight, fine tannins, loads of pepper in the flavor, medium length finish. Needs another two years. (85) #3, 2012 Luc Pirlet, Corbieres, blend, $9.99. Plum to garnet colors, huge almost floral aromas of raspberry and cherry, well balanced, fruit forward structure, dark fruit flavors that last through medium length finish. (91) #4, 2012 M. Chapoutier, La Vignes de Bila Haut, Cotes Du Roussillon Villages $13.99. Inky dark plum in color, mixed dark fruit plus mineral nose, a stoney, syrah varietal flavor, medium body and finish. (88) #5, 2011 Marius, GSM, M.Chapoutier, Pays d'Oc, $10.99. Plum color, off odor, balance slightly acidic, light fruit flavors, short finish. Not recommended. (77) #6, 2011 L'Argentier, Pays d'Herault, 100% Cinsault $14.99. Very light ruby in color, cherry aromas, balance slightly acidic,
light cherry flavors and very short finish. Not recommended. (75) #7, 2012 Chateau De la Landure, GSM, Minervois, $9.99. Deep plum in color, cherry, mixed fruit and wood aromas, well balanced and structured, both Grenache and Syrah varietal flavors come through plus cherry, medium length finish. Will keep
three or four years. (89)
Sept. 25th, '14 - Bordeaux #1, 2012 Chateau Tessyer Pezat, Bordeaux Superior Blanc $14.99. Water white in color, Semillon varietal aroma plus traces of honeysuckle, well balanced, medium weight body, dry, light fruit flavors, medium length finish. This bottle need 2 to 3 years aging. (86) #2, 2012 Chateau Bonnet, Bordeaux Blanc $9.99. Colorless, slight varietal nose, well balanced, extremly light Sauv. Blanc flavors, short finish. It may benefit from several years of aging but will never be a great wine. (82) #3, 2009 Chateau Bonnet, Bordeaux Rouge $11.99. Crimson in color, aromas of black current, balanced well, medium body weight, soft tannins integrated into the light red an dark fruit flavors. Will improve in 2 to 3 years. (88) #4, 2006 Chateau La Clare, Medoc $24.99. Plum to crimson in color, Cab. Sauv. varietal aromas plus slight cherry smells, good balance, soft,
fruit flavors. Not a keeper, drink now. (87) #5, 2009 Chateau Peyrabon (cru bourgeois) $28.99. Dark garnet in color, blackberry and blueberry aromas with a trace of oak, perfect balance with fine tannins, medium body, dark fruit flavors through mid palate, long finish. Drinking well now and for next 5 years. (94) #6, 2010 Chateau Tour St. Bonnet, Medoc (cru bourgeois) $24.99. Plum color, both red and dark fruit aromas, well balanced, medium full body weight, layers of fruit flavors, finished long. Drink now and for next 5 years. (90) #7, Chateau De Fonbel, St. Emilion, Grand Cru $27.99. Inky dark plum color, medium to full body weight, powerful currant and blackberry aromas, well balanced, strong structure with strong tannins, finished long. A real keeper. Drink in 2 to 10 years. (94)
Oct. 2nd, '14 - Rhone - #1, 2012 Signargues, Cote du Rhone Villages $17.50. Crimson in color, blackberry and blueberry aromas, slightly acidic balance, medium weight body, slightly tannic, fruit forward flavor with a short finish. Hold for two years. (86) #2, 2011 "les Cornuds", Vinsobres, Famille Perrin $18.99. Crimson to plum in color, smells of both red and dark fruit, slightly sweet balance, soft red fruit flavors, medium finish. Drink now. (87) #3, Cotes du Rhone Villages, Famille Perrin $13.99. Ruby to crimson in color, Big aromas of black currant and raspberry, good balance across strong structure, medium body weight, a mix of dark fruit flavors through mid palate, long finish. Drinking well now and for next 3 to 4 years. (90) #4, 2009 "Vieux Clocher", Arnoux et Fils, Vacqueyras $17.99. Plum color, fresh dark fruit aromas, well balanced, soft red fruit forward flavors, medium finish. Drink now. (88) #5, 2010 Domaine Jean Deydier, Chateauneuf-du-Pape $36. Plum color, cherry and other red fruit aromas with hint of oak, well balanced with fine tannins, medium to full body, layers of red fruit flavor, lasting all the way through long finish. Both the class and my own personal favorite. Drink now through next ten years. (94) #6, 2007 "Les Sinnards", Perrin & Fils, Chateauneuf-du-Pape $27.99. Plum to crimson in color, huge nose of currant, well balanced, medium to full body weight, red fruit flavors through mid palate, long finish. Drink now through next three years. We had one bad bottle. (91) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE, 1994 Chateau de Beaucastle, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Color plum turning brown at edges, aromas of red fruit and leather, balance very slightly sweet, medium full body, red and dark fruit flavors that fade rapidly, minimal sediment, long finish. Past it's prime but not completely over the hill. Not to bad for a 20 year old. (87)
Oct. 9th, '14 - Spain & Portugal - #1 2012 Valinas, Albarino, Rias Baixas $12.99. Pale gold in color with greenish hues, aromas of white pear, well balanced with flavors of ripe granny smith apples and a trace of tea. Finished short. Drink over next 3 years. (89) #2, 2007 Symington Altano, Douro, Portugal $12.99. Dark purple in color, floral and black cherry nose, flavors of black cherry and plum through a spicy medium length finish. Drink over next two years. (86) #3,2012 Aragus, Grenache, Campo de Borja $12.99. Crimson in color, intense cherry and violet aromas, well balanced with soft black fruit flavors, a medium to long finish. Will last another 5 years at least. (92) #4, 2012 Las Rocas, Bodegas San Alejandro, Grenache blend, Calatayud $13.99. Plum color, aromas of dark fruit and minerals, strong dark fruit flavors through mid palate. (89) #5, 2008 Cuatro Pasos, Bierzo, 100% Mencia $11.79. Plum in color, nose of mixed red fruits, light cherry and raspberry flavors. Not a keeper. (87) #6, 2007 Marques de Murrieta, Rioja Reserve $24.34. Dense cherry color, big spicy red fruit nose with hints of oak, fleshy fruit with silky tannins, lasting well into mid palate, long finish. Should be good until 2022. (93) SPECIAL BOTTLE #7, 2007 Quinta Da Romaneira, Vintage Port $4 per glass. Inky dark purple color, huge nose of dark fruit, massive body full of dark fruit and sweet flavors that last through very long finish. (90)
Oct. 16th, '14 - Italy - #1, 2008 Vivalda, Barbera d'Asti $13.99. Ruby color, dark fruit aromas, slightly acidic balance, light to medium weight body, well rounded in flavor, short finish. Drink now. (87) #2, 2006 Poderi Colla, Barolo Dardi Le Rose Bussia $33.01. Ruby in color, a mixture of dark fruit and minerals on nose, good balance and structure, medium body weight, layers of powerful flavors through mid palate, finished long. Now through next 6 years. (92) #3, 2011 Torrebruna, Chianti Colli Senesi, Siena province $14.99. Light plum color, cherry aroma with hint of dark cherry, very slight acidic balance, medium weight body, fruit foward dark cherry flavors, medium length finish. (88) #4, 2009 Lamole Chianti Classico $16.99. Color is plum to garnet, aromas of wild berries, vanilla and spices, good balance and structure with fine tannins, flavors of dark cherry, medium to long finish. (89) #5, 2007 Lamole Chianti Classico Riserva, Vigneto di Campolungo $19.99. Plum with garnet tinges, aromas of blueberries, spice and oak, very well balanced, full bodied, layers of blueberry, pepper and spice flavors through long finish. Drinking great now but will last another 5 years. (93) #6, 2010 Tenuta Frescobaldi Di Castiglioni, "Super Tuscan" $17.99. Crimson to light plum in color, Merlot varietal aroma stands out, well balanced, medium weight body, red fruit flavors. finish medium length. (84) #7, 2008 Poggio Al Morro, "Super Tuscan", Bolgheri $22.99. Plum color, intense aromas of strawberries, raspberries and black currants, well balanced, medium body, flavors were a mixture of red and black fruit, finished long. Drinking well now through 2020. (92)
Oct. 23rd, '14 - South America - #1, 2012 Miguel Torres, "Hemisferio", Sauvignon Blanc, Reserva, Curico, Chile $9.99. Pale golden color, floral aroma, light body, flavors of tropical fruit, short finish. Drink now. (86) #2, 2011 Estampa Estate, Cabernet Sauvignon, Colchagua, Chile $12.99. Opaque plum color, red fruit and chocolate aromas, huge structure, very slightly acidic in balance, medium to full body, flavors of cassis, medium length finish. Wine will last another 5 years. (88) #3, 2008 Santa Rita, Carmenere Reserve, Colchagua, Chile $13.99. Very dark plum in color, aromas of cherry and other red fruit, well balanced, mixed red fruit flavors flavors, medium finish.Drink now to two years. (89) #4, 2008 Tamaya, 100% Syrah Reserva, Limiri Valley, Chile $11.99. Dark crimson in color, aromas of dark fruit, blackberries and blueberries, well balanced, full bodied with flavors of dark fruit through mid palate, long finish. Drinking well now but I don't think it's a keeper. (87) #5, 2011 Callia Alta, Malbec Reserva, San Juan, Argentina $10.97. Dark ruby color, cherry and oak aromas, light structure but well balanced with flavors of red currant and black cherry. Drinking well now and for next two years. (89) #6, 2010 Menduco, Malbec Reserve, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina $11.99. We had one bad bottle. Plum color, mixed aromas of red and dark fruit plus violets, well balanced, strong structure, medium body weight, plum fruit flavors with sweet, fine tannins. Drink now to three years. (87) SPECIAL BOTTLE #7, 2002 Bodega Catena Zapatta, Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina $6 per glass.
Inky dark color, aromas of black cherry and black pepper, good balance, concentrated flavors of cassis, finished long. Still very much alive after 12 years with a few more to go. (91)
Oct. 30th, '14 - Australia & New Zealand - #1, 2012 Mohua, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $13.99. Pale golden color, floral and grapefruit aroma, well balanced, light in body, with gobs of tropical fruit flavor, peach, melon, and herb lasting through mid palate. (88) #2, 2010 Mount Langi Ghiran, "Billi Billi" Shiraz, Victoria, Australia $12.99. Plum in color, dark berry and spice aroma, well balanced, plum and spices in flavor. medium length finish. A class favorite. (87) #3, 2010 Xanadu Shiraz, "Next of Kin", Margaret River, Western Australia $14.99. Inky purple color, red fruit and violet aromas, well balanced with mixed fruit flavors, medium finish.(87) #4, 2008 Terlato & Chapoutier, "lieu dit Malakoff", Shiraz, Pyrenees, Victoria, Australia $18.99. (One bottle was slightly off.) Dark purple in color, aromas of black cherry and black currant with white pepper, strong structure with fine tannins, medium to full body, blackberry and plum flavors that last, long finish. Will keep another 5 years. (92) #5, 2008 Penfolds, "Koonunga Hill", Shiraz/Cab. Sauv. $11.99. Plum to crimson in color, aromas of blueberry and cinnamon, very slightly acidic balance, dark cherry and blueberry flavors are short lived. Drink Now. (84) #6, 2010 Torbreck, Cuvee Juveniles, GSM, Barrosa Valley, South Australia, 40 to 150 yr. old vines $20.99. Dark plum in color, aromas of blackberry, spiced cherries, minerals and spices, full, soft and sensuous, this wine is very drinkable now but will further improve over another two years. (91) SPECIAL BOTTLE #7, 2005 Mitola, "GAM" Shiraz, McLaren Vale, South Australia. $5 per glass. Extremely dark plum color, huge aromas of blackberry, white pepper, liquorice and oak, medium weight body with very fine tannins, blueberry and blackberry flavors that last through long finish. Drink now to 2019. (94)
Nov. 6th, '14 - California & Northwest - #1, 2008 Doyenne Metier, Columbia, WA, Viognier, $20.99. Very pale gold in color, intense floral aromas, balance leaning toward the acetic side, medium body, white fruit and melon flavors that develop through mid palate, finish very long. Drinking well now and for next four years. (92) #2, 2009 Bouchaine Chardonnay, Estate Vineyard, Napa Carneros $12.99. Light straw in color, citrus aromas, well balanced with lime and grapefruit flavors that don't last, finish is short. Drink now. (87) #3, 2010 Alderbrook Vineyards, Chardonnay, Russian River $15.99. Pale straw in color, oak aromas dominate, well balanced, buttery citrus flavors that remain through medium length finish. Drink now and for next three years. (89) #4, 2009 Bouchaine, Pinot Noir, Napa Carneros $17.95. Medium ruby color, aromas of plum, dark cherry, clove and nutmeg, balanced well with flavors of plum and dark cherry, plus nuances of coffee, medium to long finish. Drink now and for next five years. (92) #5, 2012 William Hill Estate Winery, North Coast, Cabernet Sauvignon $16.99. Very dark plum in color, black cherry and blackberry aromas, balanced well with fine, silky tannins, dark cherry flavors through medium finish. This wine shows promise but requires another three years aging. (89) #6, 2010 Tensley, Syrah, Colson Canyon Vineyard, Santa Barbara $29.99.
By a large margin, the class favorite. Huge aromas of black and blue fruit, spices, roasted meats, potent cassis and blueberry flavors that last through long finish. (95) #7, 2010 Bouchine, "Bouche D'Or, botrytised late harvest chardonnay, Napa Carneros (500ml bottles) $16.99. Deep golden color, aromas of honey, tea leaf and apricot, a full bodied dessert wine that will last many more years. (88) SPECIAL BOTTLE #8, 1992 Marietta, "Angeli Cuvee", (blend of Zinfandel, Petite Syrah, Carignan) List $129 - Class price only $4 per glass. Crimson color, browning at edge, past it's prime by 5 or 6 years but still showing aromas of black currant and licorice, spicy cherry and blue fruit flavors, much sediment, made worse by the constant pouring of glasses. A good experiment,
the wine was still very much alive. Should have drank it 10 years ago. (85)
Nov. 13th, '14 - Blind Tasting - (No tasting notes.) Our high score ws only 2 out of 6 correct. Congrats to our winners: Tom, Jen, Deb, Garry, Doug and Cathy.
Nov. 20th, '14 - Champagne Night -
2015 Spring Semester,
Feb. 26th, '15 - White Wines of the Old World - Now using Mr. Scheid's 20 point system. -
#1. 2013 Aveleda, Vinho Verde, Portugal $6.99. Water white in color, light varietal aroma, acetic balance, light in body and flavor, intentionally frizzante. Not recommended. (7/20) #2, 2012 Martin Codax, Albarino, Spain, $14.99. Pale golden color, aromas of peach and pear, flat balance, lightweight body with fruit flavors that developed at mid palate. Drink now to two years. (13/20) #3, 2013 Willm, Gewurztraminer Reserve, Alsace $13.99. Straw color, pronounced floral bouquet, very sweet balance, spicy flavors, medium finish. (16/20) #4, 2013 Donnhoff, Riesling, Nahe Germany $21.99. Pale gold in color,
green apple aromas, very sweet balance, ruining flavors. Not recommended. (7/20) #5, 2013 Feudi di San Gregorio, Falanghina Del Sannio, Campania, Italy $17.99. Golden color, tons of aromas floral to fruit, slightly acidic balance,
medium lightweight body, flavors lasting through long finish. (18/20) #6, 2012 Oliver Laflaive, bourgogne, Les Setilles, Puligny & Meursault $23.99. Pale straw in color, distinct varietal aroma, mild fruit levels, light body for a chardonnay, mixed fruit flavors lasted through mid palate. (13/20)
March 12th, '15 - Bordeaux #1, 2009 Ch. Terrefort-Quancard, Bordeaux Superieur $14.99. Deep ruby in color, light cherry plus herbal nose, slightly acidic balance, med. weight body, mixed fruit flavors. Drink now to 2 years. (13/20) #2, 2009 Ch. De Barbe Blanche, Lessac-St-Emilion $19.99. Garnet color, mixed red fruit nose, well balanced with fine tannins, medium finish. Drink 1 to 4 years. (16/20) #3, 2012 Ch. Tour BelAir, Montagne St.-Emilion $15.99.
Light ruby color, low key varietal aromas, harsh tannins, overpowering any flavors. Not Recommended (4/20) #4, 2010 Ch. Sigognac, Medoc, $17.99. Floral, candied aroma, balance ok but flavors were thin, finished long. Keep 2 years. (14/20) #5, 2010 Ch. Pierre Du Montignac, Medoc $19.99. Dark ruby in color, aromas and flavors of black currant, well balanced with medium length finish. Drink now through next 4 years. (17/20) #6, 2010 Ch. De Rochemorin, Pessac-Leognan $24.99. Red fruit aromas, well balanced but mixed light fruit flavors, not lasting. Better in past vintages. (15/20) SPECIAL BOTTLE #7, 2007 Ch. De Myrat, Sauternes, $6 per glass. Very deep golden color, aromas of honeysuckle, layers of apricot and melon flavors through mid palate, long finish. (18.5/20)
March 19th, '15 - Rhone , #1, 2013 Ch. Beauchene, Grand Reserve, Cotes du Rhone $12.99. Ruby in color, raspberry aromas, fruit forward mixed red fruit flavors with medium fine tannins, medium body weight and finish. (13/20) #2, 2011 G.S.M., J.V. Fleury $12.99. Very dark garnet in color, mixed black fruit aromas. simple fruit forward flavor, short finish. (12/20) #3. 2012 Belleruche, Cotes du Rhone $12.99. Dark ruby color, both red and dark fruit aromas on the nose, balanced well but drying out flavors, medium length finish. (16/20) #4, 2012 Grand Veneur, Reserve, Cotes du Rhone $16.99. Medium dark ruby in color. mixed red & dark fruit aromas plus pepper and spices on nose, the spices carry into the flavor, along with very fine, sweet tannins, finished well. Drink now through 2020. (18.5/20) #5, 2012 Ch. De Nage, Costeries de Nimes,VV $14.99. Dark garnet color, low key red fruit aromas, mixed harsh flavors and tannins. Not recommended. (11/20) #6, 2010 Vignerons de Caractere, Vacqureyas VV $19.99. Dark ruby color, red fruit nose, cherry and strawberry flavors, medium body and finish. Will keep another three years. (17/20) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 1995 Andre Beunel, "Les Cailloux" Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Cloudy, light garnet with browning at the edge, aromas subdued, balance slightly acidic. Bottle was well past it's prime. (12/20)
March 26th, '15 - Spain & Portugal #1,2012 Caves Velhas, Casalerio, Tejo, Portugal $10.99. Deep purple in color, aromas of cassis and blackberry, balance acetic, short on flavor and short finish. Drink NOW. (13/20) #2, 2013 Bodegas Brecca, Garnacha de Fuego, Aragon, Spain $8.99. Very dark garnet color, aromas of mixed red fruit, fruit forward with fine tannins, flavorful but a one dimensional wine. (14.5/20)
#3, 2013 Castillo de la Vega Vecordia, Ribera del Douro $9.99. Very dark ruby color, cherry aromas, light in body, dry with harsh tannins, low key flavors, medium length finish. (13/20) #4, 2011 Burgo Viejo, Rioja, Crianza $13.99.
Dark garnet, cherry aroma, mixed red and dark fruit flavors, well balanced and medium length finish. Drink well now and for next three years. (17/20) #5 2008 Bodegas Franco Espanolas, Rioja Reserva $17.99. BAD BOTTLE (0/20)
#6, 2007 Finca Nueva, Rioja Reserva $19.99. Light ruby in color, mixed red fruit aromas, medium weight body, good balance and structure, flavors through mid palate, medium length finish. (17.5/20) SPECIAL BOTTLE 1995 Quinta do Noval, Silval, Vintage Port. Dark purple color, dark fruit and spice aroma, still full bodied, layers of sweet dark fruit flavor, through long finish. (18.5/20)
April 2nd, '15 - Italian Night #1, 2013 Rocca Felice, Dolcetto D'Alba $13.99. Ruby in color, nose reminds me of prickly pears, medium light weight body, balance ok, dried fruit flavors, medium finish. (15/20) #2, 2013 Rocca Felice, Barbera D'Alba $13.99. Brick color, raspberry and tar aromas, balance slightly acidic, red fruit flavors, medium length finish. (15.5/20) #3, 2013 Mantellasi, Morellino Di Scansano $11.99. Deep Garnet color, varietal aroma, harsh tannins that overpowered any flavors. Perhaps try again in 3 years. Score for now. (11/20) #4, 2012 Tenuta Del Portal, "Starsa" $11.99. Dark plum in color, sweet cherry aromas, mixed red fruit flavors with fine tannins across medium weight body, balanced well. Drink now through next 4 years. (17.5/20) #5, 2010 Sella and Mosca, Cannonau Di Sardegna Reserva $14.99. Plum color, soft grenache varietal aroma, thin red fruit flavors, short finish. Drink now. (14.5/20) #6, 2010 Rivata Barolo $24.99. Old brick color, mixed dark fruit aromas, good balance and structure, dark fruit flavors through mid palate, medium length finish. Drink now and for next three years. (17/20) SPECIAL BOTTLE 2009 Pio Cesare, Barbaresco. Dark ruby in color, blackberry and other dark fruit aromas, well balanced with mixed dark fruit flavors through the long finish. Drinking well now and for next 10 years. (18.5)
April 9th, '15 - South American Night (We are back to using the 100 point scoring system.) #1 2013 Gougenheim, Malbec, Mendoza $9,99. Dark plum color, dark fruit aromas, well balanced with soft tannins, flavors through mid palate. A winner, drink now through next three years, (88) #2, 2013 Finca Flichman, Gestos "Malbec + Malbec", $13.99. Both red and dark fruit aromas, well balanced with mild fruit flavors, medium length finish. (85) #3, 2013 Los Vascos, Cab Sauv, Colchagua, Chile $7.99. Garnet in color, vegetal, green bell pepper aromas, acetic balance, fruit flavors tasted thin. Not a keeper. (76) #4, 2013 Mascota Vinyards, "Rod", Cab. Sauv., Mendoza $11.99. Light plum color, varietal aroma balance very sweet, Short finish. Not Reccomended. (60) #5, 2012 Chilcas, Cab. Sauv., Colchuaga, Chile $11.99. New brick color, Cab, aromas with hints of tobacco, balanced well but red fruit flavors faded fast. Drink now. (75) #6 2011 Chilcas Carmenere, San Rafael, Chile $11.99. Plum color, aromas of cherry and raspberry, great balance and structure, layers of flavor through mid palate. Drinking well now and for next four years. (89) SPECIAL BOTTLE 2008 Clos de los Siete (Malbec blend), Mendoza, Argentina. Color plum at center with brick at outer rim, perfect balance and structure, layers of fruit flavors that last through medium length finish. Drinking very well now and will last another 5 years. (92)
April 16th, '15 - Australia & New Zealand
(Sorry, I'm on vacation)
April 23rd, '15 - California Night #1 2013 Charles Krug, Sauv. Blanc, Napa $14.99. Light golden color, powerful grapefruit aroma, good full balance, citrus flavors lasting through mid palate, long finish. Great value wine. (90) #2, 2013 Martin Ray, Chardonnay, Russian River Valley $16.99. Light golden color, the buttery, oaky flavors show through on the nose, full bodied, well balanced with medium length finish. This band plays to a limited audience. (85) #3, 2012 Sebastiani, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast $15.99. Medium ruby color, black cherry aromas with a little raspberry added, mostly cherry flavors through mid palate, long finish. Another good value. (87) #4, 2012 Alexander Valley, "Temptation", Zinfandel, Sonoma County $11.99. Dark ruby in color, red fruit aromas with a hint of red licorice, mixed, spiced red fruit flavors, medium length finish. Drink now through 2018. (86) #5, 2012 Sterling Vintners Collection, Meritage, Central Coast $11.99. Very dark ruby to garnet color, black fruit aromas, light mixed fruit flavors that fade before mid palate, medium finish. A light weight, lunch style wine but still a good value. (85) #6, 2012 Muir Wood, Cab. Sauv., Arroyo Seco $13.99. Garnet color, toasted aromas, red fruit flavors, short finish. Nothing outstanding about this wine.
(83) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 2002 Sterling "SVR" Reserve, Bordeaux Style blend from all over Napa Valley. Ruby color, powerful black cherry aroma plus some blackberry, well balanced and structured, layers of dark fruit that develop all the way through the long, long finish. Drinking well now and for next ten years. (95)
2015 Fall Semester,
Sep. 17th., '15 - Languedoc Rousillon #1, 2014 Les Costieres de Pomeols, Huges De Beauvignac, Picpoul de Pinet $11.99. Water white in color, subdued herbal nose, well balanced, neutral flavor due to it's youth, short finish. Needs 2 more years, (76) #2, 2014 Phenolia, Vin de Pays D'Oc $11.99. Colors going from purple to light plum, nose of cherries and other red fruit, good balance with fine tannins, pair with ribs and other beef or pork, medium length finish. (86) #3, 2013 Luc Pirlet, Minervois $9.99. Light crimson in color, raspberry and blackberry lightly on nose, flavors were rustic with the carignan predominating. medium finish. Not reccomended. (71) #4, 2013 Luc Pirlet, Corbieres $9.99. Light plum in color, nose of red fruits with black pepper, well balanced, light to mrdium body weight, light cherry flavors, medium length finish. Drink now. (79) #5, 2014 Castelmaure Col de Vents, Corbieres $12.99. Plum to crimson in color, syrah varietal aromas, balance very slightly sweet, fine tannins integrated into dark fruit flavors, 30 second finish. Better in two years. ( 80) #6, 2008 Ch. de Landure, Cuvee de L'Abbe Fregouse, Minervois $24.99. New to old brick in color, at first a wet "Brett" cardboard aroma, followed by small floral aromas, well balanced, medium to full body, flavors of drying red fruits. Past it's prime. (69)
Sep. 24th., Bordeaux #1, 2014 Ch. Haut Guillebot, Entre Deux Mers $12.99. Water white color, faint melon and green apple aromas, high acidity, light in body, dried fruit flavors, short finish. (73) #2, 2012 Ch. Coucheroy, Graves, $19.99. Pale straw color, varietal nose, well balanced, smooth fruit flavors, medium finish. Drink now. (78) #3, 2014 Ch. La Valade, Blaye $11.99. Dark ruby in color, aromas of red fruit, mostly cherry, balance ok with fine tannins, light fruit flavors, medium length finish. Will be better in two years.
(82) #4, 2009 Ch. Lamothe Cissac, Haut Medoc $24.99. Deep plum in color, aromas of oak, cherry and raspberry, coarse tannins, oaked cherry flavors, medium length finish. Needs another five years to come together. (81) #5, 2009 Ch. Roquevielle, Castillon $14.99. Plum to brick colors, heavy cherry aroma plus cab. aromas, well balanced, red fruit flavors with fine tannins, long finish. Great value. Drink now but better in two years. (88) #6, 2008 Ch. Orissen Du Casse, St. Emilion $32.99. Very dark plum color, blueberry and blackberry aromas, balanced well, fine tannins over layers of dark fruit flavors, finished long. Even better in two to five years. (92) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 2002 Ch. Grand Carretey, Sauternes. Dark honey in color, aromas of apricot and pineapple, well balanced. Perhaps past it's peak but will last another ten years.
Oct. 1st., Rhone #1, 2013 JV Fleury, Cotes du Rhone Blanc $14.99 (100% Viognier). Very pale straw in color, varietal aroma with traces of bell pepper, medium light in body weight, slightly high in acid, light, possibly peach flavors with short finish. Hold two years. (78) #2, 2012 Domaine de la Presidente, Cairanne, Cotes du Rhone (Blanc) $14.99. Pale golden color, aromas of dried flowers, well balanced across a medium weight body, pronounced white grenache flavors through long finish. Drink within one year. (82) #3, 2014 M. Chapoutier, Belleruche, Cotes du Rhone $12.99. Light crimson in color, aromas of allspice, light but not fine tannins, light in body and light in red fruit flavors, short finish. (77) #4, 2012 JV Fleury, Cotes du Rhone, $14.99. Medium dark plum in color, deep aromas of dark fruit, blackberry and plum, balance good, medium body weight, well integrated tannins across layers of dark fruit flavors, medium length finish. Class Favorite. Drink now and for next 3 years. (86) #5, 2012 JV Fleury, Domaine de la Vielle Fontaine, Cotes du Rhone Villages $19.99. Plum color, both red and dark fruit aromas with cherry dominate, well balanced with integrated tannins, cherry flavors through mid palate, 60 second finish. Drink over next 5 years. (84) #6, 2011 Domaine du Grand Prieur, Vacqueyras $18.99. Plum to brick in color, aromas of cherry and raspberry, medium in weight, mixed red fruit flavors through long finish. (85)
#7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 2007 "Les Sinnards", Perrin & Fils, Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Still a dark plum color, dark fruit aromas, plum and blackberry dominate, perfect full bodied balance, many layers of dark fruit flavors through mid palate and into the long finish. Drink now through next ten years.
Oct. 8th., Spain & Portugal #1, 2013 Quinta De Azevedo, Vinho Verde $9.99. Pale golden color, nose of mixed citrus and mineral, slightly high acidity, straight forward citrus flavors with a short finish. Drink now to one year. ( 75) #2, 2014 Casado Morales, Viura, Rioja $12.99. Water white color, very closed nose, no flavors at all. Too young to evaluate. (77) #3, 2011 Aspaldi, Rioja, Crianza $12.99. Dark ruby color, mixed red fruit aromas with hint of oak, well balanced, light tannins, cherry flavors through mid palate, medium finish. Keep 2 to 3 years. (83) #4, 2010 Aspaldi, Rioja, Reserva $19.99. Dark plum color, plum and blackberry aromas, good balance with fine tannins, medium to full body weight, layers of dark fruit flavors through long finish. Will last another 6 to 10 years. Class Favorite (91) #5, 2008 Cerro Anon, Rioja, Reserva $14.99. Light plum to brick in color, aroma of cherry, balance slightly sweet, cherry flavors that fade at mid palate. Drink now. (80) #6, 2011 Quinta Das Carvalhas, Douro, Reserva $19.99. Opaque in color, dark fruit aromas, well balanced with fine tannins, light cherry flavors, medium length finish. Drink now to 2 years. Class 2nd place favorite. (88) #7. SPECIAL BOTTLE 2007 Quinta Da Romaneira, Vintage Port. Inky plum color, aromas of violets, dark cherries and raspberries, full bodied with good balance and strong structure, cherry and plum flavors through 90 second finish. Drink now and for next 20 years. (94)
Oct. 15th., Italy #1, 2014 Villa Lanata, Lo Zoccolaio, Dolcetto D'Alba $17.99. Light ruby in color, aromas of raspberry, a medium to light bodied wine, well balanced but very light red fruit flavors, short finish. Drink now. (82) #2, 2013 Rocca Felice, Barbera D'Alba $15.99. Ruby color, dark cherry aromas, slight acidic balance, low level tannins masking some of light fruit flavors, short finish. Drink now to +2 yrs. (84) #3, 2012 Tenuta Del Portale, "Starza", Basilicata $14.99. Garnet to brick color, a few off aromas plus smoked meat, acidic balance with some very harsh tannins, medium length finish. Not recommended but if you have it, try again in 3 yrs. (72) #4, 2013 Ruffino, Chianti Classico $12.99. Light ruby color, bright cherry aromas, very light in structure and red fruit flavors, short finish. Drink now. (77) #5, 2012 Gattavecchi, Poggio Alla Sala, Vino Nobile Di Montaepulciano $24.99. Color shades of plum, dark cherry and plum aromas, well balanced with fine tannins, earthy, dark fruit flavors through mid palate, finish is long. Enjoy now and for next 5 yrs. (91) #6, 2012 Albino Armani, Valpolicella Ripasso $19.99. Dark plum colors, slightly sweet balance, aromas and flavors of semi sweet cherries, finished long. Enjoy now and for next 3 yrs. (93) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 2005 Poderi Colla, Bussia, Dardi La Rose, Barolo. Aromas of spices, plums and minerals, layers of dark fruits and tannins woven together through very long finish. Enjoy now through next 10 years. (95)
Oct. 22nd., South America #1, 2014 Bodegas Fabre, Phebus, Torrontes $9.99. Water white in color, grassy, melon aromas,well balanced with a medium light weight body, high glycerin content, white fruit flavors, medium length finish. Drink now. (76) #2, 2014 Los Boldos, Momentos, Carmenere Reserva $8.99. Deep ruby color, aromas of white pepper and bell pepper, dark fruit flavors with low key tannins, medium length finish. Drink now to 2 years. (82) #3, 2013 Casillero del Diablo, Carmenere, Rapel Valley $8.99. Plum in color, aromas of raspberry and plum, good balance with zero tannins, mixed red fruit flavors. Good value but drink now. (83) #4, 2013 Bodegas Fabre, Phebus Malbec Reserva, Patagonia $12.99. Dark plum in color, Prune aroma with hint of black pepper, well balanced with fine tannins, medium to full body, mixed dark fruit flavors through mid palate, long finish. A super value. Drink now to 5 years. (88) #5, 2013 Bodegas Fabre, Phebus, Malbec, Reserva, Mendoza $14.99. Plum to crimson in color on nose early must but it blew off with a little aeration, then changing to cherry aroma, well balanced with stronger tannins, cherry and red fruit flavors through mid palate, medium finish. Drink now to 1 year. The class was split between the Mendoza and the Patagonia.(85) #6, 2013 Finca Los Maza, Tonconogy, 60% Cab. Sauv./40% Syrah $13.99. Crimson in color, syrah varietal aroma plus plum, balanced well with fine tannins, straight forward flavors of plum, medium length finish. Will improve over next three years. (83) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLES 2013 Antis Malbec plus 2013 Antis Malbec Reserva, Mendoza. Both were ruby in color, both were well balanced, they will both drink well for next 3 years. I preferred the fuller flavors of the 2013, while most of the class preferred the 2012.
Oct. 29th., Australia & New Zealand #1, 2013 Brabcott Estate, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ $12.99. Water white in color, aromas of ripe grapefruit and white blossoms, medium light in body weight, balance slightly sweet, flavors of pink grapefruit. Drink now and for next two years. (85) #2, 2013 Oyster Bay, Pinot Noir, Marlborough, NZ $12.99. Very light ruby in color, red cherry aromas, balance was slightly acidic, small amount of sweet tannins, very light red fruit flavors, short finish. Not recommended. (72) #3, 2011 d'Arenberg, "The High Trellis", 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale, South Australia $18.99. Dark plum in color, aromas of black cherry and blackberry, medium bodied with harsh tannins, dark fruit flavor, one dimensional, medium finish. A average cab. in a very bad vintage. Not worth the money. (76) #4, 2013 Penfolds, "Koonunga Hill", Shiraz/Cab. Sauv., $9.50. Opaque color, Shiraz varietal dominates, well balanced, plum and dark cherry flavors, medium finish. Drinking well now and for next 4 years. (87) #5, 2013 Penfolds, "Koonunga Hill", Shiraz, South Australia $9.50. Inky dark plum colors, aromas of plum and black cherry and hint of oak, well balanced with good structure, medium body weight, layers of dark fruit flavors, long finish. Probably not at it's peak for another 2 years and will last another 5 years after that. The class favorite. (90) #6, 2012 Evans and Tate, "Split River", Shiraz, Western Australia $10.99.
Brick color, nose mostly closed with faint dark fruit aromas,
good balance with fine tannins, mix of dark fruit flavors through medium length finish. (83) #7, SPECIAL BOTTLE 2008 Terlato & Chapoutier, "Lieu dit Malakoff", Shiraz, Pyrenees, Victoria. Dark ruby colors, aromas of black currant and black cherry with undertones of chocolate, well balanced with silky texture, full bodied with layers of blackberry and pomegranate flavors, long (45 second) finish. Enjoy now and for next 6 years. (93)
Nov. 5th., California and North West #1, 2014 Rutherford Ranch, Chardonnay, Napa $15.99. Very pale golden color, light aromas and flavors of green apple, balance was acidic, body light, short finish. Drink now and for 1 year. (75) #2, 2012 Ponzi Vineyards, Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon $31.99. Light ruby in color, strawberry aromas with hint of vanilla, balance ok, sweet fine tannins, light to medium in body weight, one dimensional, short finish. Not worth the money. (81) #3, 2012 Martin Ray, Merlot, Napa Valley $21.99. Plum in color, both red and dark fruit aromas, plus oak, medium to full body weight, several "off" flavors, medium length finish. Perhaps better in 1 to 3 years. (84) #4, 2013 DeLoach, Cab. Sauv., California AVA $12.99. Garnet color, well balanced with fine tannins, red fruit flavors that quickly fade. Drink now to 2018. (80) #5, 2013 Wild Haven, Cab. Sauv., Colombia Valley, Washington $13.99. Brick color, black cherry aromas, well balanced with light tannins, dark fruit flavor but singular structure, medium finish. Enjoy now and for next 2 years. (88) #6, 2012 St. Francis, Old Vine Zinfandel, Sonoma County $15.99. New brick in color, blackberry and raspberry aromas, good balance with strong aggressive tannins, medium to full body weight, peppered dark fruit flavors that last through long finish. This wine will drink well for next ten years. (93) SPECIAL BOTTLE 1995 Marietta Cellars, "Angeli Cuvee", Zin.,Petit Sirah, Carignane. Wine was cloudy due to much sediment, old brick color, balance slightly sweet, wine was oxidized giving it a raisiny flavor. Still drinkable but way, way, past it's prime. (65)
Nov. 12th., Blind Tasting
Nov. 19th., Champagne Night
