Showing posts with label Wine. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wine. Show all posts
WSET Test Results in! A Pass
o after two and half months finally found out how I did on my WSET test. Advanced Level 3. I passed with Distinction on the Theory and with Merit on the tasting. All in All It is what I expected since I found out what the wines we tasted were right after the test. Boy were those "typical" wines of the region not Atypical. The New Zealand Savignon blanc was not Green Pepper Juice or Mushy Peas or Asparagus just really good wine, which is why I picked Muscadet lol. And the 2nd the red a $40 Bordeaux, which I guessed for a Cheap-o Valpolicella, I think it did need time to breath and was a "off" year soooo what ya going to do.
Day 2 Eugene, Oregon - Power of Social Media
Day 2 really shows what you can accomplish with social media. From Wine Forums [WLTV] & Twitter. Its amazing, when used properly the internet is great.
BORDEAUX NIGHT OREGON 2010 - Eugene, Oregon [SmileDoc's House] (11/15/2010)
This was Bordeaux night in Eugene at a Local Orthodontist house, many a Bordeaux blend very delicious evening if I may say with a nice tour of the cellar private cellar
- 2008 Nk'mip Cellars Chardonnay Qwam Qwmt - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
Great Acid, Fresh Fruit, Peaches, Apples, Pears. Opening up with some Oak but still in Balance with the fantastic Acidity that the Okanagan can bring (89 pts.) - 2001 La Bastide Dauzac - France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Margaux
seemed to have lost my notes on this wine.
Starting to brick, Med Intensity on the Nose, this wine was more elegant and feminne on the nose and palate, a Very Pure Cranberry Mid-Palate [which Brandon did mention] and then the finish was a little short This is a drink up now. But I still enjoyed it (89 pts.) - 2004 Osoyoos Larose Le Grand Vin - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
From a Magnum
This is what I would call more Bordeaux then any of the WallaWalla/Napa I have had with that nice "Roasted Red Peppers" and Cranberry/Raspberry palate/nose. Notes of Wood [cab franc] a nice wine. Opens up nicely too.
From the Magnum has plenty of time left in it (90 pts.) - 2003 Château de Cruzeau - France, Bordeaux, Graves, Pessac-Léognan
Starting to Brick, Developing on the nose, Earth, Savory, Dark Chocolate, Bigger Round Palate. Quite Delicious (90 pts.) - 2001 Château Lagrange St. Julien - France, Bordeaux, Médoc, St. Julien
A big wine, masculine power behind it, cassis, graphite, pain du bread or however the french put it.
Showing very well, and still has time to age even more. (91 pts.) - 2005 Spring Valley Vineyard Uriah - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley
Big Nose of Liquor, Umami/Savoury on the Palate Gorgeous Red fruit mixed with a little Dark, that Walla Walla brings, has great acid, that Walla Walla terrior just showing itself nicely
Decanted for a while and still big (91 pts.) - 2002 Justin Vineyard Isosceles Reserve - USA, California, Central Coast, Paso Robles
Med+/Pronounced Nose, Starting to Develop, Cassis++ and Savoury Notes
Taste Med Acid, Full Body, Liquor of Cassis, Blackberry Jam. You can feel the warmth of Paso Robles. A End of the Night time of wine big powerful and utterly Delicious. (90 pts.)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
Day 1 of Eugene Oregon Trip
Woke up at 6am to Get to Oregon by 3pm, only 30mins Late. The Reason I had to make it on time was a friend [who I was staying with] hooked up a tasting at his friends private cellar. A big Napa Cab guy, which for me is great I don't drink a lot of Napa Cabs or for that matter USA in general just so expensive up here in canada, and most USA wineries don't discount as much to agents, then Taxes, and everything just sucks.
Before we could drink a red we needed to drink a white, and Steve asked if I was a white wine drinking I told him I am, and asked about California Chardonnays, and maybe year and half ago I would be totally turned off, but my tastes are turning to enjoy some oak in my whites. Southern Rhone Viognier/Marsanne/Rousanne blends just luciously delicious yes please! So we opened a 2006 Pahlmeyer. Good big and California but restrained and not over the top. So we open the Silver Oak, definitly some develop going on and having a med body, you know not in your face. Very Refined, maybe a little to refined? Now this is where the story gets good, he saw that I picked a silver oak and we were talking about it how people pick it because of his name and he felt sorry for me in a sense lol. And Decided to open a bunch American Wines to show me what he likes and whats better Im guessing hah.
2004 Lewis Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
2004 Peter Michael L'Esprit des Pavots
2004 Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley
I must say my wine of the night was the Leonetti, great acid, sour ripe red fruits, dark fruit yummy. The Peter Michael we drank after the Lewis which I think kinda of killed it, but Peter Michael was still pretty good. Then he sent us home with the wines and a wine for our Tuesday night pinot dinner as he could not make it!
Great Guy, thanks Steve! [and of Course Matt @hogan777 for the hookup]
WINES FROM STEVE'S PRIVATE CELLAR. - Hills of Eugene (11/14/2010)
A friend in eugene took me to one of his wine friends, and we visited his cellar approx 4000bottles, and this was a selection of what the 3 of us drank that evening.
- 2006 Pahlmeyer Chardonnay Sonoma Coast - USA, California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast
med lemon in colour, on the nose med intensity, mineral, oak, sweet corn
T: med acid, full body, med+ intensity
creamy meringue/lemon pie, apple, nutmeg/spice, apricot
conc: good balance but definitely has oak (90 pts.) - 2001 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley - USA, California, Napa Valley
c: dark ruby
a: med/med+ intensity, vegtal notes, dark fruit, showing signs of developing
t: med acid, med body, med intensity, med+ finish
graphite, cranberry
conc: good wine with some developing character note as big as I was expecting. losing its inital fruit in a good state I would say (89 pts.) - 2004 Lewis Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve - USA, California, Napa Valley
a: med intensity, vegetal ripe, mushy peas,
T: med+ acid, high tannin[silky smooth], full body, long finish
dark currant jam/cassis
conc: very delicious to me this is what I think of napa cab. (91 pts.) - 2004 Peter Michael L'Esprit des Pavots - USA, California, Sonoma County, Knights Valley
Nose of Cab Franc comes shining through. med body, very refined and elegant. drinking after the lewis this is a refreshing drink (90 pts.) - 2004 Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley
c: dark purple
a: med +intensity
floral, red fruit
t: med+acid, high tannin, med+ intensity, long finish
Grippy tannins, cranberry, opens up nicely over time dried flowers,
conc: it has a very refreshing taste, the acid/cranberry just makes it so nice (92 pts.)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
Next Week Test Ahhh!
Next week is the big test, have yet to study a whole lot, due to work being super busy, and me just putting things off like I normally do. We in the class had our run through practice test, Multiple Choice, Written, and Tasting scored in the 70% range so not to shabby, but definitely need to improve and do some studying.
I plan on taking a break from WSET for the time being, and need to contemplate doing the diploma program 2.5years and 10grand is a pretty big decision. Since I am not currently working in a wine environment it kind of makes it hard to justify going through.
I plan on taking a break from WSET for the time being, and need to contemplate doing the diploma program 2.5years and 10grand is a pretty big decision. Since I am not currently working in a wine environment it kind of makes it hard to justify going through.
USA & South America WSET Lvl 3 Part 2 Week 5
Since in WSET class we usually pour Blind and I like to mark down on the side note to guess variety, good for practice ya know, so there is always one wine that throws ya for a loop, last week during the NZ/AUS/RSA it was the darn Yellow Tail Merlot, which I thought was a Syrah first of all. This week it was a Russian River Zinfandel, and those subtle hints of Mint, which you know you could associate with Cab Sauv, and the ripe fruit with Cali. So 5 for 6 ain't all bad.
Must say the Torrontes from Michel Torino was pretty darn tasting good body and "muscat" characters and for what 13.99? its fantastic QPR.
The Caramenere Blend, which is more Cab Sauv then Caramenere, but I can pick up that Caramenere like bam unless its just Chilean Terrior for Bordeaux reds, but its good Brambly and Leafy can't go wrong
Now Pinot Noir from Oregon, visited some Oregon wine peeps [@benkearney @hogan777 @pfortier2 ] and they were talking about 2007 being a good vintage that would be hard to make a bad wine. This wine is pretty darn tasty. I dont think you could go wrong, I do have a 07 Riesling from Willamette I'm going to open monday so we shall see~
WSET LEVEL 3 PART 2 WEEK 5 USA & SOUTH AMERICA - Downtown Vancouver [AI School] (8/3/2010)
- 2009 Viña Santa Rita Sauvignon Blanc Reserva - Chile, Aconcagua, Casablanca Valley
Clear, Pale Lemon Green Going to a Water Rim
A: Clean, Pronounced Nose, Youthful
Herbaceous/Green Pepper/Aspargus/Peas, Citrus
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med- Body, no tannin, Med Alc, Pronounced Intensity, Med+ Finish
Conc: Inexpensive, Good Quality, Drink Now! NZ Styled lots of green(86 pts.) - 2009 Michel Torino Torrontés Cuma - Argentina, Salta, Cafayate
Clear, Med Yellow, Showing Significant Legs
A: Clean, Pronounced Intensity, Youthful
Floral, A Honey/Syrup floralness, Popuri, Very Muscat Like, Tropical hints of Banana, Mango
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med Body, No Tannin, Med+ Alc, Med+ Intensity, Med+ Finish
Muscat like FloralGrapey, Peach, Tropical Fruit
Conc: Very Good, Inexpensive, Showing well balance between acid/fruit/body excellent(88 pts.)
- 2007 Bodega Catena Zapata Malbec - Argentina, Mendoza
Clear, Opaque Core moving to a med ruby Rim, showing legs legs legs~
A: Clean, Med Intensity, I say Showing Signs of Developing Teacher says Youthful nose
Lil Meat, Lil Clean, Lil Savoury, Toast[Like it], Red Fruit, mineral, Stewed fruit
T: Dry, Med Acid, Med Tannin, Med+ Body to Full, Med+ Alc, Med+ Intensity, Long Finish
Dark fruit Juicy, Cherry Skin, Raisony
Conc: Mid Price, Good, Very fruit forward but A better showing of Malbec for me [not usually a fan](87 pts.) - 2008 Baron Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo - Chile, Central Valley, Maipo Valley
Clear, Deep Ruby, Showing Sig Legs
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity,
Herbaceous[Tomato Stalk] Earth Soil, some fruit
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med+ Tannin, Med Body, Med Intensity, Long Finish, Med+ Alc
Ripe Juicy Cherry/Black, Herbaceous/more tom stalk, spice[Black Pepper]
Conc: Very good, balance of body and acid, could use I think some more bottle age(89 pts.) - 2007 Andrew Rich Pinot Noir Cuvée B - USA, Oregon, Willamette Valley
Clear, Med- Ruby just starting to show signs of Garnet
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, developing
Cherry, Sassparella, Some stems, dried strawberries, cigar smoke, 'haunting'
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Low Tannin, Med+ Body, Med+ Alc, Med Intensity, Med to med+ finish
Chalky Mineral, Beautiful Cherry/Dried Strawberry, Sassparella Spice, Something else...Elegant
Conc: Outstanding, Premium, Ready to drink but can develop a little more
So Delicious I had to pretend to spit in WSET Class(92 pts.) - 2006 Ravenswood Zinfandel Belloni - USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
Clear, Deep Ruby going to a med ruby wide rim
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, Developing
Savoury, Cassis, REd Fruit ,Black Raspberry
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med+ Tannin, Med+ Body, high alc, med+ Intensity, Long Finish
Ripe Herbs/ Minty, Cassis, Woodsy, Black Raspberry
Conc: Very Good, I tihnk it could use some time to develop but very 'delicious' opens nicely with a little air(89 pts.)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
Australia, New Zealand, South Africa WSET Lvl 3 Part 2 Week 4
Now this was a interesting class, not because of the wine [ don't get me wrong there was some tasty ones] but because of what Australia has brought to the world of wine, I know what UC Davies has done. Good or Bad take it for what it is [Judgment of Paris 1976 book is a good read to see subtleties]. Being a head of their game in the Science Department, coming together as a region to export, I mean they have what 20million people and they make a whole lot of wine that needs to go somewhere. And for that I do applaud, now they may not be myself, but I have been known to enjoy some Australian wines, fantastic chardonnays, the Riesling Below is pretty darn tasting even if it is a bit young.
Now for South Africa [RSA], I really don't know what to say, I mean there is defintly a distinct style to RSA, its like Burnt Tire, Leather, weirdness that some claim to be Brett, or dirty wine making or whatever it is but I mean in a blind tasting and I get the RSA style I can almost nail it pretty easily. Tho I mean there are exceptions take the Pinotage I tried it was good, and I have had some Leathery++++ Pinotages, that was even more leathery with Steak lol.
Last but not Least New Zealand, I really enjoy NZ across the board from Hwakes Bay Chardonnays to Central Ortago Pinot Noir, to just tasty pinot Gris, oh yeah I did leave out of Sauv Blanc well I don't like Green Pepper Juice soo we will skip that
Anyways here are some notes of wines
WSET LEVEL 3 PART 2 WEEK 4 AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, SOUTH AFRICA - Downtown Vancouver [AI School] (7/27/2010)
All Wines were Blind, Guess 5 out of the 6 Right, Yellowtail Fooled Me!!
- 2008 The Winery of Good Hope Chenin Blanc - South Africa, Coastal Region, Stellenbosch
Clear, Med- Lemon
A: Clean, Med Intensity, Youthful
Apple[Juice], Almonds tossed in Confectioners Sugar, Mineral, Citrus
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med Body, Med Intensity, med+ Length, Med+Alc
Apple Juice, Mineral
Conclusion: QPR can't complain, Alc makes it a touch out of balance(84 pts.) - 2006 Grosset Riesling Polish Hill - Australia, South Australia, Mount Lofty Ranges, Clare Valley
Clear, Med- Lemon Green, showing Significante Legs
A: Clean, Med+ Inensity, Developing
Mineral/Savoury, Petrol/Rubber, Lanolin, LIME, Floral - Very Pretty
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, med- body, med+ intensity, long finish, med+ alc
Lime, Plasticine/Mineral [A Talc/Beeswax Feeling]
Conclusion: My type of Dry Riesling, Really needs time to Develop should put away for a couple of years(89 pts.)
- 2005 Scali Pinotage Voor Paardeberg - South Africa, Coastal Region, Paarl
Clear, Med+ Ruby
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, Developing
Stewed Fruit/Dark, Savory, Mineral, Animal, Dill
T: Dry, med Acid, Med+ Body, Med tannin, med+ intensity, med+ finish, high alc
Raspberry, Cocoa, Animal/Leather -Seamless Integration
Conclusion: Exceptional Pinotage, amazing balance, Would drink now dont see it aging to much more(90 pts.) - 2009 Yellow Tail Merlot - Australia, South Eastern
Clear, Deep Purple, Showing Significant Legs [Alc and RS]
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity
Spice, Pepper, Ink Blue Fruit,Vanilla Marshmallow, Lipstick, Milk Chocolate, Rubber Balloon
T: "Dry" not really, Med- Tannin, Full Body, High Alc, Med+ Intensity, Med+ Finish
Sweet Concentrated Dark Fruit/Blackberry/Cherry, Minimal Spice/Woody
Conc: This was served blind, guess Shiraz a "Mollydooker" Style, If you like that style this is a screaming buy. Very Fruit Forward has that "Delicious Factor"(84 pts.) - 2008 Ata Rangi Pinot Noir Crimson - New Zealand, North Island, Wairarapa, Martinborough
Clear[Not Crystal tho], Med Ruby
A: Clean, med+ acid, developing
Cherry/Rhubarb Stewed, Spice, Newspaper Ink, Orange Peel Spice [Grand Mariner] -Def has NZ Fruit profile IMO
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Low+ Tannin, Med Body, Med+ Intensity, Med+ Finish, Med+ Alc
Cherry, Earth, "Green" Veg like Cabbage
Conc: Good, taste like a NZ Pinot, can't go wrong tho might be a little on the high price(87 pts.) - 2007 Majella Cabernet Sauvignon - Australia, South Australia, Limestone Coast, Coonawarra
Clear, Opague Ruby, Almonst no change at rim
A: Clean, Pronounced Nose, Developing
Roasted Red Peppers/Hummus, Green Peppercorn, Dark Cassis, Lil Brambly Fruit, Mineral, Complex, Herbs, Bark
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med+ Tannin, High Alc, Med+ Body, Med+ Intensity, Med+ Finish
Dark Ripe Fruit Good Quality Grapiness, Red Fruit, Roasted Red Peppers,
Conc: Very Good Ready to Drink can develop further, Great Freshness to this wine(90 pts.)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
Portugal & Eastern Europe, WSET Lvl 3 Part 2 Week 3
Poor Austria, getting lumped in with Eastern Europe I bet they wouldn't like that too much lol. That being said the wines this week, well Tokaji Amazing, Acid! Yes More Please. But Oh Grüner Veltliner, when compared to Riesling; Was at a Loimer Tasting with Rieslings and Gruner, the Riesling wins better balance, more acid. Gruner is interesting but I think the lack of acid for me personally just doesnt win me over all the way, the wines are good that for sure.
Here are this Weeks Notes
WSET LEVEL 3 PART 2 WEEK 3 PORTUGAL + EASTERN EUROPE - Downtown Vancouver [AI School] (7/20/2010)
- N.V. Borges Vinho Verde Gatão - Portugal, Minho, Vinho Verde
Clear, Pale- Lemon Green, some Petillance
A: Clean, Med- Intensity, Youthful
Mineral, Green Apple, Citrus
T: Dry, High+ Acid, low alc, med- body, med- finish, med intensity
Frizzante, green apple, grapey
Conc: Simple, Inexpensive, does its job(83 pts.) - 2007 Quinta do Crasto Douro Reserva Old Vines - Portugal, Douro
Clear, Med+ Purple, showing prominent legs
A: Clean, Pronounced Nose, Developing
Oak[Vanilla/Coffee Grounds], Dark fruit, Meaty/Spice, Chcolate, Lots of Mineral
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med+ Tannin, Full Body, Med+ Intensity, Long Finish, Med+ Alc
Oak, Coffee, Dark Fruit [Cherry] Dark Chocolate
Conc: Very Good, Needs time to develop, even just tasting it about 1.5hr later in Class it started to open and soften(89 pts.) - 2008 Erich Salomon/Undhof Grüner Veltliner - Austria, Niederösterreich, Kremstal
Clear, Pale Lemon green, going to water rim, mod legs
A: Clean, Med Intensity
Mineral, Spicey Raddish, Citrus, Pear, Lime Zest, Savoury
T: Dry, Med Acid, med+ alc, med+ body, med intensity, med finish
'oily', lime, lots of pear juice like fruit cocktail
Conc: the nose was better then the taste. Good Drink Now(86 pts.) - 2003 Chateau Dereszla Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos - Hungary, Hegyalja, Tokaji
Clean, Med Lemon
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity
Marmalade, Botrytis notes of Spice, Lanolin, Dried Papaya, Dried Mango
T: Sweet, High Acid, med- alc, full body, med+ intensity, long finish
Marmalade, Luscious, Tropical, Citrusy Lemon Candy, Orange Crush
Conc: Exceptional, crazy high acid(91 pts.) - 2007 Boutari Naoussa - Greece, Macedonia, Naoussa
Clear, Med+ Garnet
A: Med Intensity
Savoury, Clean mineral, Cedar/Graphite, Sweet Spice
T: Dry, med+ acid, high tannin, med body, med+ intensity, med finish
Dark Chocolate (80% Cocoa), Cherry/Cranberry/Strawberry Mix
Conc: Not to shabby(84 pts.) - N.V. Tsantali Retsína - Greece, Attica
First time having Retsina was scared of all the horror stories
Med Lemon Pee Yellow
A: Pronounced nose
Lemon, Pine Neddles, Pine-sol
T: Dry, Low- Acid, Med- body, Med- Alc, Short Finish[A Good Thing], Med- Intensity
Lemon, Rosemarry
Conc: Overall not as bad as I was expecting on the palate the pine is not crazy overpowering but it is there(82 pts.)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
Spain, WSET Lvl 3 Part 2 Week 2
Off to Spain, and Yes I want to go there for Vacation, one because of the awesome canaadian dollar, and spain has been hurt a bit in the whole euro mess, with bad employment numbers so that should make it cheaper, but the most important reason is the wine! maybe the sun? Music? Gaudy artwork? ahh soo many reasons.
Well here are some from around the country, the Priorat was a disappointment I have had better even from the same vintage. The Jumilla is well I dont want to say this but Oaky Deliciousness, it is plain and simple not a food wine really a party wine yeah I mean it is 15% Alc. but the R. Lopez de Heredia is amazing, Just so Elegant and Development just beautiful, to think that "modern" winemaking IE Oaky Fruit bombs took over the region such a shame.
WSET LEVEL 3 PART 2 WEEK 2 SPAIN - Downtown Vancouver [AI School] (7/13/2010)
Spain this week, no Bubbles, that will have its own week, same with Sherry
- 2008 Martín Códax Albariño Rías Baixas Burgáns - Spain, Galicia, Rías Baixas
Clear, Pale+ Lemon moving to a watery Rim, with moderate legs
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, Youthful
Green Fruit[Apple], Opening to Peach, Floral, Citrus, Savoury/Mineral
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med Body, med Alc, Med+ Intensity, Med+ Finish
Lemon, Apple, 'Creamy Peaches', Floral, Kiwi
Conclusion: Very good wine, mid priced, ready to drink can keep for a couple years(89 pts.) - 2008 Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Blanco - Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alta, Rioja
Clear, Med Lemon, Going out to a pale watery rim, showing significant legs
A: Clean, Med to Med+ Intensity, develping
Mineral[very clean], savoury, light apple, little animal/lanolin, "floral" more dried tho
T: Dry, Med Acid, Med+ Body, Med+ Alc, Med Intensity, Long Finish
Apple/Pear, Citrus/lime, Mineral
Conc: I enjoyed this a lot, teacher not as much drinking well now(88 pts.)
- 2007 Miguel Torres Priorat Salmos - Spain, Catalunya, Priorat
Clear, Med+ Ruby, Showing Signicant Legs [15% Alc]
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, develping
Savoury/Mineral. Cherry[Dark], Spice [Sarsaparilla], Tar
T: Dry, Med Acid, Med Tannin, Med to Full Body, Med Intensity, Med Finish, HIgh Alc
Creamy Oak, Cherry[Dark], Spice
Conc: Awkward finish, might do better with age potential is there but for tonight there were better that's for sure(86 pts.) - 2007 Bodegas Juan Gil Monastrell Jumilla (Silver Label) - Spain, Murcia, Jumilla
Clear, Deep Ruby, Going to a Med Ruby Rim, showing med+ legs
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, Starting to develop
Mineral, Oak/Sweet Vanilla, Blackberry, Cherry, Cinnamon Spice, Coffee/Mocha
T: Dry, Med- Acid, Med Tannin, Full Body, High Alc, Med Intensity, Med+ Finish
Cherry, Blackberry, Cola, COLA!, Spice[Sweetness], Woody/Tobacco, Plum
Conc: This is the "the bottle of the night party wine" so big and massive and ripe and so darn delicious that it will win you over.(88 pts.) - 2006 Bodegas Alejandro Fernández Ribera del Duero Tinto Pesquera Crianza - Spain, Castilla y León, Ribera del Duero
Clear, Deep Purple going to a med Ruby Rim, showing legs
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity starting to develop
Cedar, Twigs, BLackberry, Mineral, Grain/cereal, opening up in the glass with Cucumbers/watermelon
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med+ Tannin, Med+ Body, Med+ Alc, Med Intensity, Med Finish
Red fruit, Tart, Sour Cherry/Dusty Tannin, Cukes/Watermelon
Conc: good wine, simple on the palate, nose shows promise(88 pts.) - 2001 R. López de Heredia Rioja Reserva Viña Tondonia - Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alta, Rioja
Clear, Med Garnet moving to a wide rim
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, Developed
Spice Box, Warm/Candy, Dried Sour Cherry, Savoury, Tar, Whole Wheat grain/toast, Licorice
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med Tannin, Med Body, med Alc, Med+ Intensity, Long Finish
Sour Cherry, Savoury/mineral, Licorice, Dried Flowers
Conc: Absolutely Gorgeous, this is where its at
Side Note: Teacher picked up a lot of oak notes not me tho(93 pts.)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
Germany, WSET Lvl 3 Part 2 Week 1
Oh Germany, Oh Rieslings, the one wine I was about to say I do not have in my cellar, then realized I bought a bottle from Trisaetum Vineyard in Oregon last week, but other then that nope none. I enjoy riesling but for me its a momemt thing, I like Auslese ripness myself as long as it has good acidity.
Tasting wines from Germany is what makes me go and this is why I like, and why I do not like them, on one side we have what gave it a bad name in the first place, uninteresting wines, high yield etc etc. Then comes the Riesling and sometimes almost to much Residual Sugar, then the Dry Riesling which I think works better in Alsace or Austria then in Germany.
WSET LEVEL 3 PART 2 WEEK 1 GERMANY - Downtown Vancouver [AI School] (7/6/2010)
- 2009 St. Ursula Niersteiner Gutes Domtal Kabinett 'Golden Oktober' - Germany, Rheinhessen
Clear, Pale Lemon/Bronze
A: Clean, Med Intensity, Youthful
Green Fruit/Apples, Mineral/Savoury, Hazelnut Shells/Skin
T: med dry sweet, low+ acid, low alc, med body, med intensity, med finish. Apples [Juice/Red/Ripe/Mushy], Hazelnut Skins again
Conc: Acceptable, Drink Now, Mushy No Balance(79 pts.) - 2007 Selbach-Oster Weissburgunder - Germany, Mosel Saar Ruwer
Clear, Pale Gold, going to a watery rim
A: Clean, Med Intensity, youthful
Mineral, Citrus, Tropical/Mango
T: Dry, Med Acid, Med+ alc, med- body, med intensity, med+ finish
Chinese Dessert Style Creamy Mango Puddy [milk]
Conc: Good, Enjoyable drink now,(83 pts.) - 2007 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier Ayler Kupp Riesling Spätlese - Germany, Mosel Saar Ruwer
Clear, Med- Lemon/Green, mod legs evident
A: Clean, Med Intensity, Develping
Petrol, Citrus/Lime, Green Apples
T: Med Sweet, Med+ acid, low+ alc, med- body, med intensity, long finish. Tropical/Mango, Green Apple/Lime that old juice drink, peach/petrol/papaya
Conc: Very Good, Ready to drink but can develop further with age 2-5 easily(90 pts.) - 2007 Domdechant Werner Hochheimer Domdechaney Riesling Spätlese - Germany, Rheingau
Clear, Med Lemon, going to a watery rim
A: Clean, Med Intensity, youthful
A Sprite play, syrupy lemon/lime, mineral
T: med- sweet, high acid, med alc, med+ body, med intensity, med+ length. Lime, Ripe Green Apples, Richness/Peach
Conc: Very good, ready to drink can develop further, good balance of fruit/acid/sweetness(89 pts.) - 2008 Schloss Reinhartshausen Riesling trocken - Germany, Rheingau
Clear, Pale Lemon showing significante legs
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, Developing
Citrus[almost powdery vitamin/redbull], mineral, lanolin qual.
T: Dry, Med+ Alc, Med Alc, Med- body, med intensity, med+ finish. Citrus, Lemon Juice Fresh Squeezed, not as harsh tho. Green Apple Finish/Chalky
Conc: Acceptable, I did not enjoy this others did in the class, found it a touch out of balance. Drink now IMO(81 pts.) - 2008 Black Tower Dornfelder Pinot Noir - Germany, Pfalz
Clear, Med- Ruby, to a med pale ruby rim
A: Clean, Med Intensity, Developing
Vanilla/oak, stewed cherry, mineral, meaty, spice
T: Dry, Med Acid, Low Tannin, Med Alc, Med Intensity, Med- Body, Cherry/Rhubarb stewed
Conc: on the nose reminds me of a Valpolicella. Good Drink Now for sure(85 pts.)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
Cayuse Vineyard Visit/Tour
We, being a group of Canadians plus one American on a Bio Dynamic Workshop setup by John of Marquis Wine Cellars and Brad Cooper who works for Township 7 and has his own label now Black Cloud, a Pinot Noir label. Philippe Armenier led the workshop which started a day before at Hedges Vineyard, but that is a post for another day.
The first thing that stands out is the Terrior,"galets roules", and here is a direct quote from the website "Experts on the terroir of Cayuse vineyards describe vine roots snaking through an accumulation of cobblestones of varying sizes, a layer hundreds of feet thick in places. This soil, called “Freewater very cobbly loam,” sits atop 10,000 feet or more of pure basalt" And the wines, they do show power, and with the wine making skill finese. I remember scoffing at the Grenache based wine that he made, thinking Grenache in Walla Walla, then you enter Walla Walla its like the Okanagan but warmer less water to cool it, and then his vineyard with the stones of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, then you taste the wine, God Only Knows, and you connect it instantly.
I will talk a about Biodynamic farming methods later from what I gathered from the trip, but to answer one question, my mom asked me when I came back, did the wines taste different. I sat there for a bit thinking on it, did they taste different? Well they were amazingly good, was it Biodynmaic or the care to detail in everything, the use of no pesticides, the low yields? Also what about his Terrior its unreal maybe the explains it but for me Biodynmaic must be working, I mean if the Christophe notices the difference in the health of his vines then yes it is working!
Without further ado here are some vineyard pictures and tasting notes
CAYUSE VINEYARDS, BIODYNMAIC WORKSHOP - Cayuse Vineyards, Walla Walla (6/29/2010)
This was the 2nd Day of the work shop with Philippe Armenier, we visited Christophe at Cayuse for a tour, tasting and lunch. Must say the wines were amazing defintly worth the wait list. No Accident why it sells out, just good juice
- 2007 Cayuse Grenache God Only Knows - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley
C: Med Intensity
A: Med+ Intensity
Fruit Ripe, Red Fruit [Twizzler]
T: Dry, Med Acid, Med- Tannin, Red Fruit, Spice, Creamy Texture
Fantastic Wine I think of the 6 this was my Favourite.
As Christophe said this is as close as he is going to get to making a Pinot(93 pts.) - 2008 Cayuse Syrah Cailloux Vineyard - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley
Had the 07 for Dinner the night before this was even better!
A: Med+ Intensity
Meat, Spice, Fat
T: Sweet Tannins, still young and tight but oh so good
Would love to see this in a couple of years at least!(92 pts.) - 2008 Cayuse Tempranillo Impulsivo En Chamberlin Vineyard - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley
C: Opaque Purple/Ruby/Black
A: Dark Blackberry, had been open for 24hrs
T: Opened nicely have "awesome" down for notes. A Very Dark Wine, Dense still a baby(91 pts.) - 2008 Cayuse Flying Pig - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley
2nd Fav wine of the Day
Spice, Meat, Fat, Good Cab Franc Qualities, Stems/Graphite. Red fruit on the palate. Gorgeous Texture(92 pts.) - 2008 Cayuse Syrah Bionic Frog - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley
Med Intensity
Clean Precise, Pure Beautiful Fruit
Still a baby but the Focus and Purity on this is amazing(92 pts.) - 2008 Cayuse Cabernet Sauvignon Widowmaker En Chamberlin Vineyard - USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley
my least fav of the 6 which isn't to say it was bad
med+ ruby
Good clean fruit, a nice sweet cassis, body was more med, and good acid. Did not dig this as much as the others but it still was good(90 pts.)
Posted from CellarTracker
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
6days 2139km Later
Was on a 6 Day Wine Vacation, well it what I told the Canadian Border guard coming back and he didnt get me to pay the extra duty on the extra 3 bottles I brought back [only allowed 2 bottles, after that its about 117% Tax on the rest]
2136km [ 1327mi] in 6 Days
Vancouver > Seattle > Issaquah > Yakima > Kenniwick[aka TriCities] > Walla Walla > Portland > Mcminnville[Willamette Valley Wine Country] > Oregon Coast > Eugene > Home
BioDynamic workshop
wine dinner in Eugene
now on to transcribing all my notes, and going through over 700 pictures argh so many
WSET Level 3 Week 7 Rhone Valley
Better get this one up before Week 8 Starts tomorrow!
What to say about Rhone, There is North and then there is the South, so close and yet so far, its amazing how a little distance plus a valley, can change the wine profile, especially Syrah, since that's really the only commonality between the two. I enjoy Crozes Hermitage, especially when it gets those Leafy Undertones! And at the same time a good blend of the south can be just as tasty. 2007 South Rhone, was a pretty good vintage from what has been said especially on the Chateaunuef-du-Pape front. But for me the most enjoyment from the 07 have been the Entry Level Cotes Du Rhones, inexpensive and properly balanced.
On Chateaunuef-Du-Pape, to me its one of those regions where you have a wine and love it try and different producer and hate it, funny how that works, Domaine de Pague was a fantastic wine! But the one tasted in Class was super nice too and 1/4 of the price.
On Roses, I like em, I'm not afraid to drink pink wine. /end
WSET LEVEL 3 WEEK 7 RHONE - Downtown Vancouver [AI School] (5/18/2010)
Rhone Wines this Week, a pleasant inexpensive white, some reds and a rose
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
What to say about Rhone, There is North and then there is the South, so close and yet so far, its amazing how a little distance plus a valley, can change the wine profile, especially Syrah, since that's really the only commonality between the two. I enjoy Crozes Hermitage, especially when it gets those Leafy Undertones! And at the same time a good blend of the south can be just as tasty. 2007 South Rhone, was a pretty good vintage from what has been said especially on the Chateaunuef-du-Pape front. But for me the most enjoyment from the 07 have been the Entry Level Cotes Du Rhones, inexpensive and properly balanced.
On Chateaunuef-Du-Pape, to me its one of those regions where you have a wine and love it try and different producer and hate it, funny how that works, Domaine de Pague was a fantastic wine! But the one tasted in Class was super nice too and 1/4 of the price.
On Roses, I like em, I'm not afraid to drink pink wine. /end
WSET LEVEL 3 WEEK 7 RHONE - Downtown Vancouver [AI School] (5/18/2010)
Rhone Wines this Week, a pleasant inexpensive white, some reds and a rose
- 2008 La Vieille Ferme (Perrin & Fils) Côtes du Luberon Blanc - France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Côtes du Luberon
Pale Lemon Green, Med+ Intensity, Youthful, Floral! Orange Blossom, Greenfruit/apple, Citrus/Lemon/Lime Ripe.
On the Palate, Dry, Med- Acid, Alc Med, Body Med, Med Intesnity, Apple, Citrus/Lemon, White Peeach, Pear, Stoney/Mineral, Med- Finish
Conclusion, This wine is simple and yet pretty and floral I love it!, Ready to drink now/dont wait(85 pts.) - 2008 Domaine Lafond Tavel Roc-Epine - France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Tavel
Clear, Med Orange. Med Intensity, Developing, Caramalized Red fruit/strawberry, spice, game, watermelon rind
on the Palate, dry, med acid, low tannin, alc med+, med body, med intensity, strawberry, spice med finish
Conclusion, Its a good Rose, ready to drink now.(86 pts.)
- 2006 Cave de Tain St. Joseph Cuvée Prestige - France, Rhône, Northern Rhône, St. Joseph
Clean, Med+Intensity, Developing, Dark Fruit+Red Fruit/Raspberry, Spice, game, cola, coffee
on the palate, dry, med+ acid, med+ tannin, alc med, body med, med intensity, dark fruit, dark chocolate, spice, vegetal/cabbage, med+ finish
conclusion, this needs time, atleast a decant for sure, opens up nicely(89 pts.) - 2006 Mommessin Côtes du Rhône Villages terroirs de galets - France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Côtes du Rhône Villages
Med+ Ruby, Med intensity, umami, warm red fruit/cherry/twizzler, clean, mineral, toast. youthful
on the palate, dry med acid, med tannin, alc med+, med body, med intensity, red fruit/cranberry, short finish
conclusion, good wine simple/inexpesnvie(86 pts.) - 2006 Perrin & Fils Côtes du Rhône Villages Rasteau - France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Côtes du Rhône Villages Rasteau
deep ruby, no change at rim, med+ intensity, dark fruit, flint, clean, mineral, developing
on the palate, med acid, med tannin, med+ alc, med+ body, med intensity, spice, stewed red fruit, med+ finish
conclusion, very good, needs a little time to develop maybe a year?(87 pts.) - 2007 Château de la Gardine Châteauneuf-du-Pape - France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Deep Purple, No Change at Rim, Pronounced Intensity, developing, spice/warm/baking spice, vanilla, dark fruit, warm baked orange loaf.
on the palate, dry med acid, med+ tannin, high alc, med+ body, med+ intensity, dark fruit, stewed, plums, chocolate, spice, mineral, Long finish
conclusion, nice chewiness, but good acidity to keep it fresh, ready to drink can develop further(90 pts.)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
A Fantastic Tasting, A nice size room, not too many wines, and some really great wines to boot. Must say my favourite new winery goes to Painted Rock, one the Wines Rock and two the own whom I have met twice now is such a great and down to earth guy. He has a fantastic Site, see my other post on his wines I talked about last week here.
Le Vieux Pin and LaStella both owned by the same company, were interesting the top tier Merlot from Vieux Pin was really nice would like to see where it goes in a the future, the whites defintly were not whimpy, but not goopy either, very nice stuff
8th Generation and Tantalus Quality White/Roses Wine being made at both, would buy and defintly would not turn down a glass if offered.
Crowsnest Merlot for 20$ in the BC Market Unbelievable high altitude Merlot Vines apparently
I am excited about the future of the industry, and to think that our top tier wines are under 100$, Red Icon of Painted Rock 55$, LaStella Top Merlot [did not try, but if its anything to the reserve le vieux pin then yeah should be good and its yields are 1ton/acre] Is I think 85$
BC WINES, BLOOM - (5/20/2010)
Bloom Tasting event put on By BC Wines, Every year BC wine just keep getting better good stuff!
- 2009 LaStella Chardonnay Leggiero - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
C: Clear, Watery to Pale, Lemon/Green
A: Clean Med Intesnity, Youthful, Citrus, Melon
T: dry, med+ acid, no tannin, med body, med intensity, med alc, med finish. Canadied Lemon/Grapefruit, Clean,
Conclusion, Very refreshing Chardonnay, a great summer chardonnay(89 pts.) - 2009 Le Vieux Pin Pinot Noir Rosé Vaïla - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
C: Pale Pink
A: med intensity, youthful, rasphberry, cherry
T: Dry, Med Acid, No Tannin, Med(-) Body, Med Alc, med finish. Strawberry, Clean
Conclusion ,decent rose(87 pts.) - 2009 LaStella Merlot LaStellina - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
C: Med Pink, Slight Salmon Tint
A: Clean, Med Intensity, youthful, Red Summer fruit, strawberry/raspberry
T: dry, med acid, med+ body, low(-) tannin, long finish. Licourice, Big Nice Texture, good candy cherry/watermelon fruit(90 pts.) - 2009 LaStella Pinot Grigio Vivace - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
C: Clean, Med(-), Pale Gold
A: Clean, Med(-) Intensity, youthful
T: Dry, Med to Med+ Acid, Med Body, Med Intesnity , Med+ Finish. Okanagan Peach, Stone fruit, ripe citrus, mineral, ruby grapefruit
Conclusion, Nice Body/Texture Weight on this wine enjoyed this(89 pts.) - 2007 Le Vieux Pin Pinot Noir - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
C: Med ruby
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, Dried Flowers, Red Fruit, Developing, Mineral, Zest
T: Dry, med+ Acid, med tannin, med+ body, med+ finish. Seems tight at the moment picking up Atypical Pinot Fruit - 2007 Le Vieux Pin Merlot - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
C: Clear, Med+ Ruby
A: Med Intesnity
T: Med Acid, Med Tannin, Med body, med+ finish med alc. red fruit(87 pts.) - 2007 Le Vieux Pin Merlot Reserve - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
Rating 89-91
C: Med++ Ruby, tint of Purple
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, Cherry, Chocolate, Coffee, Mineral[Lipstick]
T: Dry, Med+ Acid, Med+ Tannin, Med+ Body, Med+ Intensity, Finish Med+. Tight on the palate
Conclusion, Potential is there, needs time to open up hence the 89 - 91 rating(89 pts.) - 2009 Road 13 Honest John's - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
C: Pale Lemon
A: Med+ Intensity, Youthful, Peachy, Floral
T: Dry, med+ Acid, med body, med finish. Floral, Apple/Green(88 pts.) - 2008 Road 13 Pinot Noir - Canada, British Columbia, British Columbia VQA
Delicious Cherry Skin. Its Delicious, but it doesn't add any thing else to that one tasty note - 2009 St. Hubertus Estate Winery Riesling Dry - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
ABSOLUTY A BUY especially at the price!
Ripe Citrus, Peach, High Acid, Med Body
This wine is crazy good, hence basically no notes hah a Must buy at 14.99!(90 pts.) - 2007 Painted Rock Syrah - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
C: Med+ Ruby
A: Clean, Med+ Intensity, Slowly Starting to Develop. showing mod legs. Cabbage, Ripe Red Fruit[Cherry Twizzlers!!! YUM]
T: dry, med+ acid, med tannin, med body, long finish. Chocolate, Cherry, Silky Smooth tannins, Charcoal, Lil Meat.
Conclusion, Great Finish tasted better this week then last [tasted this in the middle of the event so compared to everything else this blows em all away](89 pts.) - 2007 Painted Rock Merlot - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
C: Med+ Ruby, Med+ legs
A: Med+ Intensity, Dark Red Cherry, Great Concentration
T: dry, med+ acid, med tannin, med body, meD+ intensity. red fruit/cherry, delicious
Conclusion, Freshness is there! very delicious(89 pts.) - 2007 Painted Rock Red Icon - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
C: Med+ Ruby
A: Med+ Intesnity, Mineral, Cherry, dried roses/potpourri, tar
T: Med+ acid, med+ tannin, med+ body, long finish. A Ripe Vegetal note, Chocolate, Cherry, raspberry'
Conclusion: Opened up so much since my last tasting a week ago amazing(90 pts.) - 2007 Clos du Soleil - Canada, British Columbia, Similkameen Valley VQA
C: Pale, Lemon
A: Clean, Med++ Intensity, Citrus
T: dry, med+ acid, med body, med+ finish. Candied Citrus Zest(87 pts.) - 2007 Clos du Soleil - Canada, British Columbia, Similkameen Valley VQA
C: med to med+ ruby
A: med+ intensity, woody, cherry
T: med+ acid, med tannin, med+ body, jolly rancher red, woody, needs some time - 2009 8th Generation Vineyard Pinot Meunier Rosé - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
Pinot Muenier 24hr Skin Contact
C: Pale Pink
A: Earthy, Cherry, Strawberry
T: med- Acid, med body, Cherry rhubarb
Conclusion, this is a very nice Rose, I enjoyed this, this year and last year, and its already or almost sold out(88 pts.) - 2009 8th Generation Vineyard Dry Riesling - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
Also Called the "Classic"
C: Watery in Colour
A: Med Intensity, Marzipan yummay~
T: High Acid, Med Body, Ripe Citrus, Marzipan
tasty - 2008 8th Generation Vineyard Riesling - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
C: Watery to Pale Lemon slight tint of green
A: Petrol, Umami
T: Off-Dry Med+ Acid, Med- Body, Appley Goodness, Tropical Fruit(89 pts.) - 2008 8th Generation Vineyard Pinot Gris - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
Umami on the Nose, Round Texture Stone Fruit on the Palate - 2008 8th Generation Vineyard Pinot Noir - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: CHerry, Rhubarb
T: Cherry, Mineral/Rocks, Rhubarb, Creamy(89 pts.) - 2008 8th Generation Vineyard Merlot - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
Vegetal Notes on this [all I had written down for notes] - 2009 Tantalus Vineyards Dry - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
C: Med(-) Pink
A: Med Intensity, Earth, Game, Mineral
T: dry, Med+ Acid, low Tannin, Med body, cranberry
Conclusion Very Tight, needs a little decant, was pop'n'pour funk blew off after 30secs but still needs a mini decant(88 pts.) - 2008 Tantalus Vineyards Pinot Noir - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
50% German Clones, Rest Dijon I think
A: Vanilla, Cherry, Rhubarb [Oak notes present]
T: Med acid, med+ tannin, med body, med+ finish a Big wine needs time to settle so young and tight - 2009 Tantalus Vineyards Riesling - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Med+ Intensity, Ruby/Pink Grapefruit
T: Med+ acid, Med+ body, med+ finish, citrus/apple(89 pts.) - 2008 Tantalus Vineyards Riesling Old Vines - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
C: Watery to Pale
A: Med+ Intensity, Petrol
T: High Acid, Med(-) Body, med+ Finish, green apple, Mosel Like in its approach very different then the Regular Riesling(89 pts.) - 2007 Crowsnest Merlot Barcello Canyon - Canada, British Columbia, Similkameen Valley VQA
This wine is a High Altitude Merlot from Okanagan
Wine was showing Beautifully Was decanted for an hour
A: Med+ Intensity, A Interesting Nose so different, changing couldn't take notes really
T: Soft Tannin, Med Acid, Med Body, Showing Beautifully right now(91 pts.)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
Painted Rock Winery
Went to a Painted Rock Wine Tasting this week, one of Okanagans' new premium wines. First the History of this piece of land, was owned by Hillside Estate for approx 10years, never developed, no idea why as it was rated #1 meso-climate [now I know they say its Micro-Climate, but really micro is under every leaf where the grapes grow, Meso is the Vineyard, Macro is the Appellation] by BC Wine Institue, property originally called "BlackHawk". To Illustrate the how good this site is, In 2009 there was some heavy freezing, Painted Rock suffered no damage, The Vines are sloped so that they go towards the water, where they get a good vacuum effect allowing the Lake Skaha to Moderate the vineyard. Also there is Amphitheater at the back of the vineyard reflecting the heat back into the vines during the growing season, and of course lake reflection where the Petit Verdot is planted
What made me want to try these wines was that the Red Icon blend had a heavy amount of Petit Verdot, 20% in the 2008 Vintage, unheard of in a "cool" climate. Amazingly these vines were planted mostly in 2005, and the quality of wine coming from such young vines not to shabby. Another interesting point someone made at the tasting was that the Syrah tasted a lot like Walla Walla syrahs when the vines were young, sooo that could mean good things for this syrah and I may have to get on that but right not super fruit forward due to youngness but ya know still tasty
PAINTED ROCK PORTFOLIO TASTING - Wine Vault (5/12/2010)
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
What made me want to try these wines was that the Red Icon blend had a heavy amount of Petit Verdot, 20% in the 2008 Vintage, unheard of in a "cool" climate. Amazingly these vines were planted mostly in 2005, and the quality of wine coming from such young vines not to shabby. Another interesting point someone made at the tasting was that the Syrah tasted a lot like Walla Walla syrahs when the vines were young, sooo that could mean good things for this syrah and I may have to get on that but right not super fruit forward due to youngness but ya know still tasty
PAINTED ROCK PORTFOLIO TASTING - Wine Vault (5/12/2010)
Whites
- 2008 Painted Rock Chardonnay - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
C: Pale Lemon.
A: Med+ Intensity Initially oak is on the nose, and was quiet scared because I know this is 100% New French Oak, started to blow off, peachy, pear, toast, burnt popcorn [good!]
T: med Acid, med+ body, med+ finish
Lemon, Apple, Pear, Mineral, CLEAN,
Conclusion reminded me a Mersault I had couple weeks ago, so good and clean fruit, the Oak Integrates/disappears so WELL, I would drink this wine and Im not a Chard/Oak Fan(92 pts.)
Released Red
- 2007 Painted Rock Merlot - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Med+ Intensity
Perfume. Licorice, Dark Cherry/Plum, Spice Cake, High Toned
T: Med_ Acid, Med Tannin[dusty/silky], med body, med+ finish
Red Fruit, Smooth, Clean, Purity of Fruit, Paired really well with Duck Prosciutto
Conclusion: This wine was showing the best out of the reds straight out of the bottle so good(91 pts.) - 2007 Painted Rock Syrah - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
First 6month in New French Oak, then 30% Transferred to American Oak [New] Then rested for 24motnhs[I think]
A: Sweet Caramel, Red Fruit/Stinky/Earth, Brocolli, Fatty, Meaty, Cabbage
T: Round, Creamy, Red Good Fruit, Spice, Earth
Conclusion These vines are only 5years old I think if that, the potential is there I would love to see how this shows with older vines, maybe the 2012-2015 vintage. Its Delicious right now but does not have that depth of Character(87 pts.) - 2007 Painted Rock Red Icon - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
33%Cab Franc, 20% Petit Verdot, 16% Merlot, 16% Cab Sauv 15% Malbec
This wine is very tight At the Moment
A: Eucalyptus/Mint, Lipstick, Vanilla, Spice/Pepper, Earth/Stemy
T: Med+ Acid, Med+ Tannin [ Smooth Silky Tannins], Good Balance
TIGHT~ , Chocolate, Dark Fruit,
Conclusion, Needs time very tight
Barrel Sample
This was a Barrel Sample, Final Blend, Now Sitting for another 4 months in Oak
- 2008 Painted Rock Red Icon - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
!!!!THIS IS A BARREL SAMPLE, Final BLEND still in Barrel for another 4 Months!!!
20% Petit Verdot, 30% Merlot, 25% Cab Franc, 25% Malbec
A: med+ Intensity, Cherry, Rich
T: Med Acid, Med+ Tannin[Silky], Red Fruit, Opening up with "Sweet Tannins and Ripe Fruit'
Conclusion: Would like to see this affter a year in bottle to calm down, but the Vines are still young and not getting a lot of 2nd'ry Complexitiies yet
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
Naramata [Okanagan BC] Tasting
Last week was the trade tasting for the annual Naramta Bench Winery Associations Wine Tasting, by far the most organized 'Sub-Appellation' [since there is no official sub-apps yet] out of the Okanagan. I personally like what is coming out of the Naramata region, and the odd Syrah I have tasted from these wineries have been good, now the fruit may not be 100% naramata but the quality coming out of there is pretty high. John Schreiner Blog has article that the Golden Mile might first get a Sub-Appellation Status but that for another day
I am still trying to figure out for myself how to take tasting notes and transfer them properly to a written version where they sound good, hmmm its all a learning process
My Favourite Wines of the Night was the Laughing Stock Syrah/Viognier, most Pinot Gris were fantastic
NARAMATA BENCH TASTING - Westin Bayshore Hotel (4/12/2010)
This is the Annual Naramata Bench Tasting. A region in the Okanagan which I think is where the good quality wines are coming from. Sits high above a Lake moderating the temperature from the desert like conditons of the Okanagan
Whites, Some Good Wines coming out of here, Good Quality Pinot Gris [if made in the Alsatian Style] Some Viognier doing well as long as not a lot of Oak is used
- 2008 Nichol Vineyard Gewürztraminer - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: Med Minus Intensity, Flinty
T: Grapey, Rubber/Petrol, Refreshing Citrus
Conclusion: Not your typical Gewurtz, lots more acidity, no Floral notes mineral tho,(82 pts.) - 2009 Nichol Vineyard Pinot Gris September Ranch - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
C: Light Peach
A: Richness, Cream Strawberry
T: Strawberry Cream, Med Acid.
Conclusion: Very tasty but I almost thought it was a Rose, def had that profile(88 pts.) - 2008 Therapy Freudian Sip - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Fuzzy Peach, Perfume
T: Watery [Might of Been Too Cold]
Conclusion: Thought it lacked Acidty, and tasted watery - 2008 Therapy Chardonnay - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: Big French Oak on the NOse
T: Surprsing Oak is not as dominant as I would expect from the nose, Great Acidity, but def oak flavour, then touch of fruit(85 pts.) - 2008 Therapy Pink Freud - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
A: Delicious Fruit, Peach/Apricot, All Stone Fruits
T: Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Conclusion: Just great, I totally would enjoy this(89 pts.) - 2008 Van Westen Vineyards Vino Grigio - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: Light, Delicate
T: Petrol, Mineral, Roundness, Med to med minus acid - 2008 Van Westen Vineyards Viognier - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: Light Aroma, Flowers
T: Round Texture, Great fruit, Nice Acid, Viognier Bitterness coming through very good tho
Conclusion, really enjoyed this Viognier - 2008 Van Westen Vineyards Vivacious - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: Big Peach + Flowers
T: Good Apple/Pear, Great Acid/Balance, Freshness, Roundness(89 pts.) - 2008 Lake Breeze Vineyards Pinot Gris - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Good Fruit, Tart Peach
T: Tart Peach - 2009 Lake Breeze Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc Seven Poplars - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Fruit Herbascious
T: Bitter Finish, S'alright(82 pts.) - 2009 Lake Breeze Vineyards Gewürztraminer - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Powdery Perfume, Roses
T: Round, Luscious Goldenfruit
Conclusion: Totally was into this wine(88 pts.) - 2008 Black Widow Winery Pinot Gris Single Vineyard - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
Note says Really nice solid, must of liked it(88 pts.) - 2008 Black Widow Winery Schönburger Oasis - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: Lemon Peel, Flowers
T: Residual Sugar Off Dry Noticable, Good Blance of Fruit - 2009 Black Widow Winery Schönburger Oasis - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
This was a tank sample
A: Cologne
T: Stonefruit, Peach, Pear Citrus
Conclusion: thought was way better then the 08 and the sugar was about the same but not as noticable on this vintage(89 pts.) - 2009 Howling Bluff Sauvignon Blanc Summa Quies Vineyard - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: A Interesting Nose, Fascinating [what I wrote down I think it surprised me]
T: Fresh Lemon Juice Candy, Really Good, High Acid for sure tho - 2009 Laughing Stock Vineyards Pinot Gris - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
T: Nice Texture, Ripe Fruit, Richness
My type of Pinot Gris more Alsatian in style!(89 pts.) - 2009 Laughing Stock Vineyards Blind Trust - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
A: Slightly Closed
T: Great Finish, Great texture coming from the Viognier I think, pick up the nice Sauv Blanc fruit too
Conclusion: Yeah I know terrible notes(88 pts.) - 2008 Laughing Stock Vineyards Chardonnay - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
A: Flinty, French Oak
T: Oak Presence, High Acid, Apples - 2009 Laughing Stock Vineyards Viognier - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
T: White Flowers, Some Oak, Round, Textured
Conclusion: Oak used well, even tho I dont like Oaked Whites, it didnt kill the floral aspect so i am happy about that. Def Has Potential(89 pts.) - 2008 Poplar Grove Winery Pinot Gris - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
A: Low Intensity [Guessing too cold]
T: Good texture, nice acid, fruit - 2008 Poplar Grove Winery Chardonnay - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
A: Closed Nose
T: Good use of Oak not over done - 2008 Monster Vineyards (Poplar Grove) Manmade - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: Nutty
T: Clean Simple Fruit, Some Creaminess(84 pts.) - 2009 Monster Vineyards (Poplar Grove) Rosé - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
A: Strawberry Candy
T: Good Fruit...something I can't read
Conclusion: Really Enjoyed this(89 pts.) - 2008 Red Rooster Winery Pinot Blanc - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: nice Fruit
T: Nice Round Texture, Peachy, Good Acid - 2008 Red Rooster Winery Gewürztraminer Reserve - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
T: Residual Sugar noticeable, Crystalized Fruit, Good round texture - 2008 Township 7 Sauvignon Blanc - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
No Greenness, Citrus, High Acid
Enjoyable(84 pts.) - 2008 Township 7 Chardonnay Unoaked - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Mineral
T: Mineral, Roundness, Citrusy
Conclusion: I really did enjoy this, I would recommend this for sure and a good price too i think(87 pts.)
Reds are good as long as they stay away from Cabernet Sauvignon. Cab Franc / Merlot Blends good stuff
- 2005 Van Westen Vineyards Voluptuous - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
Polarizing Wine of the Night, I liked it others not so much
A: Good Fruit, High Quality Red Fruit
T: Good Acid, Red Fruit, Med Tannins but not harsh
Conclusion: I found this approachable other found this had more noticeable tannins then the 06 - 2006 Van Westen Vineyards Voluptuous - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
Polarizing Wine, People loved, some were meh, some disliked
A: Good Quality Red Fruit Thumbs up!
T: Good Acid, Big Tannins, Just way to young
Conclusion: See Potentional for sure - 2008 Howling Bluff Pinot Noir Summa Quies Vineyard - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
C: Med(-) Ruby
A: Nice Ripe Pinot Fruit
T: Sour Creamy Cherry, Very Fruit Driven
Conclusion: Has Potential, Oak needs to integrate really tho before drinking(89 pts.) - 2007 Howling Bluff Sin Cera Summa Quies Vineyard - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: Coffee
T: Good Fruit, Balance, Grape [Good Type tho], Coffee
Conclusion: Could use a little less Oak but its not like hey look at my oak(88 pts.) - 2007 Laughing Stock Vineyards Blind Trust - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
A: Nice Fruit
T: 'Salty' , Red Cherry - 2007 Laughing Stock Vineyards Portfolio - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
after tasting this last year defeintly showing IMO awesome, starting to open up on the nose, Pencil Shaving oh yeah. Tasting Sweet Beautiful Tannins, good cherry nice stuff(89 pts.) - 2008 Laughing Stock Vineyards Syrah/Viognier - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
A: Absolutlu Just Beautiful, Flowers, Caramel, Meaty, Red/Dark Fruit!
T: Good Acid, LONG Finish, Nice Texture some Vanilla
Conclusion: Yup I am buying its just gorgeous(92 pts.) - 2006 Poplar Grove Winery Merlot - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
A: High Toned Red Fruit
T: Med+ [Silky Tannins] Red Fruit - 2006 Poplar Grove Winery Cabernet Franc - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
I tasted but no notes and don't remember ah well - 2006 Poplar Grove Winery The Legacy - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley
T: Good fruit, and tannins [shrug] - 2008 Red Rooster Winery Cabernet-Merlot - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Coffee, Veg, Hoisin/Soy
T: Vanilla, Cherry, Stalky, Caramel
Conclusion: Has those green notes you are going to find in a BC Cab Sauv, and use of oak is noticable - 2007 Red Rooster Winery Meritage - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Vanilla
T: Nope
Doesn't work do not liek at all(79 pts.) - 2006 D'Angelo Estates Pinot Noir - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Okanagan Valley VQA
A: Fig, Prunes, Very Dark
T: Red Cherry, Warm, Big Tannin, Chewy
Conclusion: Not something I associate with a Pinot Noir, very big and Chewy(85 pts.) - 2005 D'Angelo Estates Merlot Cabernet - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: High Tone Fruit, Veg
T: Soft Cherry
Conclusion: QPR this is a great value, the high quality fruit with the veg goes, I mean if your using Cab in the Okanagan you are most likly going to get those veg notes(86 pts.) - 2007 D'Angelo Estates Tempranillo - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
A: Smell is muted
T: High Acid, Sour Cherry, Chalky
Conclusion: Surprised me this actually a tempranillo, and I think it could work in the Okanagan with that High Heat it gets, it may actually work(87 pts.) - 2005 D'Angelo Estates Sette Coppa - Canada, British Columbia, Okanagan Valley, Naramata Bench
Really Nice Balance, Good Acid Really Nice
Couple other people I know form the tasting really thought this was Really good too(88 pts.)
A German Riesling
To start out why I was looking for a German Riesling goes back to my Grandpa. There was a story told one time about when he was working in Germany [He was Polish] before WW2, he was working Restaurant don't know if it was a server or busser or what. Being the 30s in Germany the owner not always able to pay his staff, they decided that with his coworker they would drink Old Rieslings from the owners cellar [you know Riesling with 20years bottle age, making them what 1910s?] that would cover a days worth of work.So that bring us to today my Grandpa is dying, and we wanted to have one last dinner as family before it was too late. So on short notice 3 hours [Short notice because no one told me that today was the day of the dinner hah!], I ran down to Liberty Wine Merchants here in Vancouver at Granville island knowing they carry a good selection of Riesling and are known to have aged Riesling with 15years on them. Unfortunately they did not have a Aged Riesling in stock so with some talking to the people in the store I was steered to a Auslese from the 2007 vintage from what the clerk said was a good vintage for showing Petrol notes, cuz I like sniffing petrol~
When I arrived at the house, grandpa was in bed and not doing so well, so we let him rest, and the rest of the family enjoyed the wine. And it was not all bad news this day, as my brother and his wife announced that my grandma would be a great grandmother, and me a uncle! The Circle of life. The wine itself was pretty good too.
The Stats:
Vereinigte Hospitien
Piesporter Goldtröpfchen
Auslese
2007
Riesling
8.0% Alc
Mosel Saar Ruwer
The Eye:
Med Minus Golden
The Nose:
A Hint of Petrol, A Dash of Flint, A a Delicious Helping of Passionfruit curd, Richness on the nose for sure
The Mouth:
High Acid, Med + Finish
A another hint of Petrol, Luscious Passion fruit, lemon curd, red apple, crushed Rocks
Overall/Reflection: A very tasty wine, Would love to see how this would age for sure, nice richness, the Acid Sugar Balance was Superb, did not taste "sweet" at all very nice
Score: 92
THE 100-POINT RATING SCALE (Robert Parker of the Wine Advocate describes this in more detail.)
• Extraordinary (96-100 points)
• Outstanding (90-95)
• Very Good to Excellent (85-89)
• Good (80-84)
• Average (75-79)
• Below average (70-74)
• Avoid (50-70)
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