EDWARD L — Empire Wine Community
EDWARD L has been a customer since Jun 2006
Reviews (120)
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La Rioja Alta 'Vina Alberdi' Rioja Reserva 2018
Posted Jun 19, 2023[Verified]
EXCELLENT RIOJA"Nice medium-bodied with hints of oak, chocolate and cherry. A modern style Roja that is a really nice value at 21 dollars. On my 2nd case"
Bodegas Artadi 'Vinas de Gain Tempranillo 2019
Posted Jun 8, 2023[Verified]
ELEGANT"Nice medium-bodied with a touch of oak, cherry and stonefruit. Tremendous finesse and balance. Very refined. Great values exist for Tempranillo, and this is one. This should appeal to any lover of red."
Montes 'Alpha' Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
Posted May 26, 2023[Verified]
GREAT VALUE, VERY FINE"Nice cabernet, medium-bodied with a touch of oak, cherry and strawberry. As always, cabs from South America a very affordable. This should appeal to a wide variety of palates."
Numanthia Termes Toro Termes 2019
Posted May 25, 2023[Verified]
GREAT VALUE, VERY GOOD"Not quite as good as the 2018, but still very good, and a terrific value. When I first started drinking this 10+ years ago, it was mid 20s. At 18 dollars, its incredible"
Vina Robles Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
Posted May 11, 2023[Verified]
ITS OK, BUT.."Nice frui. But there's something that I Don't love. It comes across as sweet? Not my style. 93? No. 87"
Avignonesi 'Grifi' Toscana IGT 2019
Posted Feb 15, 2023[Verified]
VERY DRINKABLE"50/50 Sangiovesi/Cabernet as best I can tell. Both grapes well-represented, nice red fruit and strawberry, with the cab providing structure. I gave it 4 vs 5, only because I prefer a more pronounced tannic backbone."
Esteban Martin Grenache-Syrah 2021
Posted Feb 8, 2023[Verified]
INCREDIBLE VALUE"Rare that I would really like something at this price point. But the 92 is well deserved. It has mnone of those cheap wine characteristics. Very elegant."
Artazu 'Pasos de San Martin' Navarro Tinto Garnacha 2018
Posted Dec 17, 2022[Verified]
SPECTACULAR"Incredible depth, refined tannins give this 100 pt Garnacha structure and a backbone. Cherry blueberries and a little mocha. Elegant. Will go back for a full case.It drinks very much like a Chateauneuf du Pape. Amazing value"
Mettler Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Posted Dec 12, 2022
NOT MY STYLE"Tasty, but... comes across as too jammy/sweet to me. Sweet isn't the perfect word here, but I can't think of another way to describe my issue"
Salcheto Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2018
Posted Nov 29, 2022[Verified]
ITS JUST OK"Very light. Nice enough but not my style."
Arnaldo Rivera Undicicomuni Barolo 2016
Posted Nov 21, 2022[Verified]
INCREDIBLE VALUE"I am a huge Barolo fan. I am accustomed to paying 2 to 3x of this price for Barolo. At 26, this is amazing. Incredible complexity. I have no doubt this would age well for 15 to 20 years."
Triacca Sassella Nebbiolo 2016
Posted Nov 4, 2022[Verified]
VERY LIGHT"Atypical Nebbiliolo. Very light. Minimal tannins. Short finish. Do not agree with top 100. Its ok if you like this style. Not for me. 89"
Geyser Peak Walking Tree Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Posted Sep 23, 2022[Verified]
MORE ACCURATE, A 90"Its ok. Nice Round, nice fruit, a touch of oak. Not my style. A bit too round and jammy."
Casaloste Chianti Classico 2018
Posted Sep 22, 2022[Verified]
89 OR 90. NOT 93. ITS A STYLE THING"Its fine. Just not my style. Its very light, so if thats you jam go for it. I like my chianti classic to be a little bigger."
El Coto 'Coto de Imaz' Rioja Reserva 2016
Posted Sep 20, 2022[Verified]
VERY GOOD"Great fruit nice balance, decent finish. Very versatile. Would i like the tannins to be a bit more pronounced on the finish? Yes, but I still recommend"
Chateau Piney Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2018
Posted Aug 12, 2022[Verified]
GREAT VALUE"20 dollars for a St.Emillion Grand Cru is amazing. Nice structure and balance. Refined. Dare I say elegant."
Nobilo Wines 'Icon' Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Posted Jul 1, 2022[Verified]
GREAT VALUE, PERFECT BALANCE"A classic Marlboro NZ sauvignon blanc. Nice, punchy fruit balanced by a smooth and creamy body. At 14, a very good bargain"
Ridge Vineyards Three Valleys Zinfandel 2019
Posted Jun 6, 2022[Verified]
NICE, POLISHED BUT..."Not my favorite. Elegant and well made, but kind of low on the spicy, peppery aspect that I love about Zinfandel. My go to remains the same, Seghesio"
Numanthia Termes Toro Termes 2018
Posted May 8, 2022[Verified]
NOT A 96, BUT VERY GOOD"This is a ratings update. When I first had it 10 years ago,, it cost in mid 20s. At 17, its certainly a great value. It just isn't a 96, more like a 93. Very good. Exceptional value. Rich, meaty. Will stand up to any meal."
Marques de Caceres Rioja Reserva 2016
Posted May 8, 2022[Verified]
INCREDIBLE"Tart cherry, chewy tannins and rich black fruits. Its an incredible value. Ill be going back for a case. I'd rate it a 93. The tempranillo is bold, this wine is huge."
Mascota Vineyards 'Unanime' Gran Vino Tinto 2017
Posted Mar 25, 2022[Verified]
SOLID VALUE"Good fruit, nice balance. Very drinkable and a good value at 17. For my tastes, would like to see it a bit more tannic to enhance the finish."
Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc 2019
Posted Mar 24, 2022[Verified]
UPDATED TO SPECTACULAR"A little bit creamier (perhaps a touch of oak?) than my go to NZ SB which is Whitehaven. Very complex, lots of layers, very crisp and refreshing. For sauvignon blanc, I prefer New Zealand. A nice alternative is Sancerre from France. Anyway, this might be my new favorite."
Gary Farrell 'Russian River' Chardonnay 2019
Posted Mar 24, 2022[Verified]
SPECTACULAR"Consistently beautiful. To me, the perfect Chardonnay. Crisp, balanced and the tiniest hint of oak. I drink far more red, but this is my goto Chard."
Marietta Cellars'Gibson Block' Syrah Single Vineyard 2018
Posted Feb 8, 2022[Verified]
VERY GOOD, BUT..."I liked it very much. And I an a big fan of domestic Syrahs. I just see this at ~25, not 31. Still, I recommend it."
Masciarelli 'Marina Cvetic' Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2017
Posted Jan 8, 2022[Verified]
LOVE THIS"Have long been a fan of this wine, but this version is far more complex than others I have had previously. True, it costs more than most I have had before,, but this showed unexpected characteristics. Tart cherry, white pepper and spicy black fruit. This would easily stand up to a big meal of beef steak, etc."
Marietta Cellars 'Christo' Rhone Blend 2018
Posted Jan 6, 2022[Verified]
SIMPLY SPECTACULAR"Deep, dark purple, almost an inky black. Full bodied. On the nose, blackberry and plum. Nice backbone and integrated tannins make for a long and satisfying finish. Absolutely brilliant. Bought 3, going back for a case."
Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Posted Dec 9, 2021[Verified]
MY GO TO SAUVIGNON BLANC"IMO, the best of many NZ Sauvignon Blancs. High acidity makes it a perfect pair with shell fish and cream sauces"
Robert Mondavi 'Napa' Chardonnay 2018
Posted Dec 9, 2021[Verified]
VERY GOOD"Nice stone fruit and minerality. I rate it a 4 only because my preference is a bit more oak. Still a very good value"
Macrostie Vineyards Chardonnay 2019
Posted Dec 9, 2021[Verified]
LOVE IT"Have bought numerous vintages. I like their style, the oak is present, giving a nice butterscotch overtone."
Marietta Cellars 'Arme' Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Posted Dec 9, 2021[Verified]
INCREDIBLE"Great value. Balanced and elegant. An amazing value."
Bodega Catena Zapata 'Agrelo' Cabernet Sauv 2018
Posted Oct 30, 2021[Verified]
NICE BALANCE"Tart cherry, white pepper and cigar box. Nice fruit, nice finish. Elegant and structured. Very good value."
Finca Decero 'Remolinos Vnyd' Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Posted Oct 28, 2021[Verified]
RIDICULOUS VALUE"I've bought this over a number of vintages. It is consistently excellent. 14 dollars? Insane. Its great!"
Domaine Vieux du Lazaret Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2017
Posted Oct 18, 2021[Verified]
ELEGANT"Nicely crafted. CdPs have gotten very pricey so 30 dollars is the floor. That said, this is well crafted and very worthy of your consideration."
Pascual Toso Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Posted Sep 2, 2021[Verified]
SMOOTH AND QUAFFABLE"Very nice, especially for the price. Nice fruit, a hint of chocolate and vanilla on the finish. Very approachable, should satisfy a wide group."
De Martino 'Legado' Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Posted Aug 27, 2021[Verified]
MAGNIFICENT"Beautiful balance, fresh acidity, nice fruit and earth tones with a long finish. This was one of 5 or 6 SA cabs and so far, its my favorite of the lot. 18 dollars? So good."
Los Vascos 'Grand Reserve' Cabernet Sauvignon Cromas 2018
Posted Aug 25, 2021[Verified]
A STEAL AT THIS PRICE"Another value priced cab from Chile. Strawberry and tart cherry with a clean mineral core. Medium bodied, smooth tannins for a nice finish. This first tasting justifies a do over. Will probably go back for a case."
Bodega Catena Zapata 'Alta' Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Posted Aug 23, 2021[Verified]
AT FIRST TASTE, ITS OVERPRICED"I like it, I like it alot. But after 1st tasting, the price seems high. Low to mid 20s seems more appropriate. Maybe I'll feel different after next tasting, and if so, I will update."
Cabernario No.8 Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Posted Aug 23, 2021[Verified]
FABULOUS VALUE"This cab is everything that is great about South America. Value priced, impeccably crafted, nice balance between fruit and finish. Its hard to believe it can be this good at this price. I also just bought another Chilean cab at 33, that wasn't much better. Will go back for a whole case."
Haras de Pirque 'Hussonet' Gran Rsv Cabernet Sauv 2016
Posted Aug 20, 2021[Verified]
IT'S OK, NOT A FAVORITE"A nice core of black fruit and sour cherry. But after my 2nd tasting, I get an excessive amount of plum and smoke, that I dont care for. It's balanced and a decent value, maybe just not my style."
Antiche Terre Amarone della Valpolicella 2016
Posted Jul 19, 2021[Verified]
FINESSE"Nice balance of flavors. Definitely get the chocolate and black cherry. Has all the earmarks of the stronger and more expensive Amarone, but in a softer version."
Pingus PSI 2018
Posted Jul 15, 2021[Verified]
NICE ENOUGH, BUT..."2nd tasting and I simply cannot see this as a 94/95 at 25 dollars. I have it more like a 91 priced in the high teens. Its certainly tasty, but I think it is overrated and overpriced."
Gary Farrell 'Russian River' Chardonnay 2018
Posted Jul 7, 2021[Verified]
WELL BALANCED AND ELEGANT"Beautiful representation of the Russian River chardonnay. Although I prefer a bit more oak, this still impressed with its balance, structure and finesse. A very good value at this price."
Mettler Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Posted Jul 7, 2021[Verified]
VERY SOLID CABERNET"Rich, dense cabernet sauvignon that is typical of the Lodi region in California. A fruit forward delight that should appeal broadly."
Rocca di Frassinello Ornello 2016
Posted Jul 7, 2021[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL"Perfectly balanced with dense fruit followed by fine tannins and a long finish. Amazing to me is that the structure is so defined, I can really taste the difference between the 4 grapes that make up this perfect blend. In my book, its an easy 94."
Beringer 'Knights Valley' Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Posted May 26, 2021[Verified]
MORE ACCURATELY A 4.5"Rich and balanced, my only issue is the finish. I'd prefer a stronger tannic finish. Lots of fruit, plum and cherry, and a strong oak element, which i love."
Antinori 'Toscana' Villa Antinori Rosso 2017
Posted Apr 20, 2021[Verified]
QUALITY TUSCAN"Mostly sangiovese with smaller amounts of cab, merlot and syrah. Nice clean structure. Versatile red that can work with a wide variety of foods. Great value at this price."
Tolaini Vineyards Al Passo Sangiovese/Merlot/Cab 2017
Posted Apr 20, 2021[Verified]
VERY NICE BLEND"Like a lot of blends, this red didn't take on the specific characteristics of any one of the 3 grapes, sangiovese, merlot or cab. Still, it was very pleasant and a nice value at the price."
Dei 'Vino Nobile' Montepulciano 2017
Posted Apr 5, 2021[Verified]
SIMPLY SPECTACULAR"I have bought other vintages and enjoyed it, but this was amazing. I took two sips, and immediately picked up my phone and ordered a case. I defy you to find a better wine for this price. Complex flavors of sour cherry, tobacco, pepper and spice, backed up by a loooooooooong finish. Can this really be 90 percent Sangiovese? It drinks huge like a Bordeaux or a Cabernet. Amazing."
Petra 'Zingari' Super Toscana IGT 2017
Posted Apr 3, 2021[Verified]
NICE VALUE, NICE PRICE, UPDATED TO 5 STARS"Original Review: No, I can't make it a 93, but its a solid 90 and a very nice quaffing wine at a very good price. Its an unusual blend of 4 reds for an Italian vintner, all at equal 25 percent, Merlot, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot and Syrah. Don't get me wrong. Its nice, its tasty and its worth another look, its just not a 93.Updated: After 2nd tasting, I'm making this a 92 and 5 stars. Especially important is the value. At 15 dollars, its pretty amazing. The second tasting also revealed some depth and finesse. Probably going back for a case."
Bodegas Borsao 'Zarihs' Syrah 2016
Posted Apr 2, 2021[Verified]
CLEVER NAME, GREAT WINE"LOL. SHIRAZ spelled backwards? You funny. Its exceptional. I'm familiar with this vintner, having bought their "Tres Picos" many times. A Spanish syrah is a first for me, but its very good. Deep, rich, great fruit, jammy in the Australian style. If you like Shiraz, it will not disappoint. Going back for more."
Sottimano 'Basarin Langhe' Nebbiolo 2019
Posted Mar 5, 2021[Verified]
STUNNING WINE FROM A LEGENDARY PRODUCER"A near perfect representation of Piedmont is found in this Nebbiolo, a grape which is the basis of two Italian gems, Barolo and Barbaresco. Beautiful minerality, and a long finish. If you understand this grape, you'll appreciate this expression."
Chateau De Francs Les Cerisiers Bordeaux 2016
Posted Jan 27, 2021[Verified]
TREMENDOUS VALUE"While it doesn't have the depth of their magnificent 2015 vintage, it is still an incredible value at 17."
Sottimano 'Pairolero' Barbera d'Alba 2018
Posted Jan 19, 2021[Verified]
CLASSIC BARBERA D'ALBA"A good value red from Piedmont which produces my other favorite Italian reds, Barolo and Barbaresco. Earthy notes with a layer of tart cherry running throughout. Good value."
Ornellaia 'Le Volte' IGT Toscana 2018
Posted Jan 15, 2021[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL, ELEGANT"I bought it awhile ago, and just got around to tasting it. My primary reaction is to the excellent balance. Beautiful fruit, nice mid palate, and a elegant finish. Primarily Merlot, the fruit is dominated by bright cherry and currants."
Paolo Scavino Vino Rosso da Tavola 2019
Posted Jan 5, 2021[Verified]
NICE TABLE WINE, NOTHING MORE"Sorry WS, can't make this a 92, more like an 88. Not bad, easy drinking, but not memorable in any way. Surprising, because Scavino is a top Italian vintner."
Dry Creek Vineyards 'Heritage' Zinfandel 2018
Posted Dec 17, 2020[Verified]
CONSISTENTLY GOOD"I've bought this a few vintages in a row. Consistently very good, especially at this price point."
Beckmen Vineyards Cuvee Le Bec 2018
Posted Nov 7, 2020[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL BLEND"I normally favor varietals over blends, but this is spectacular. Beckman in known for their Syrahs, and this cuvee has a core of Sarah, along with grenache and other reds. Perfect balance of fruit. Fresh, enough acid to provide a nice finish and a good pairing with food. Going back for more."
Salcheto Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2016
Posted Oct 25, 2020[Verified]
REALLY SUPERB"Beautiful expression of Sangiovese in this delicious red. Very hard to beat in this price range. As good as a quaffing wine as it is a serious red than can pair nicely with a hearty meal."
Tommasi 'Ripasso' Valpolicella 2017
Posted Oct 22, 2020[Verified]
VERY GOOD"In Italian wines, "ripassa" means to "re pass" the wine a 2nd time over the skins (pomace) of Amarone, which imparts more tannins leading to higher alcohol, improved structure and a longer finish. The fruit in this Valpolicella is abundant, and this is a great value. I'm going back for more."
Damilano Barbera d'Asti 2018
Posted Oct 21, 2020[Verified]
SATISFACTORY"A decent Barbara. Good depth of flavor, nice and round. Very drinkable, although I prefer a bit more structure and a drier finish."
Bodegas Caro 'Amancaya' Red Blend 2017
Posted Oct 16, 2020[Verified]
MISLED BY "EXPERT" REVIEWS"Full disclosure, I'm not a big fan of Malbec. And I never would have bought this if I knew is was 72 pct Malbec, 28 Cabernet Sauvignon. Note the errors on that data in the ratings above. No big deal, if you like Malbec."
Tenuta di Capraia Chianti Classico Riserva 2015
Posted Sep 28, 2020[Verified]
EXCEPTIONAL"Simply spectacular. A perfect expression of Chianti. Cherry, blackberry and perfect balance. A long and elegant finish. Agree with the experts, 93/94. Definitely will repurchase"
Cune 'Vina Real' Crianza Tempranillo 2016
Posted Sep 21, 2020[Verified]
AMAZING RIOJA FOR THE PRICE"C'mon, this good for 13? Amazing. I admit I love Riojas in general and the Tempranillo grape. This is really good."
Mettler Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Posted Sep 19, 2020[Verified]
REALLY NICE FOR THE PRICE"Beautiful fruit bomb, emblematic of Lodi. Shoukd appeal to a wide variety of folks. Dense, inky purple and full bodied. Soft tannins and a medium finish. Mettler is producing some great wines of late."
Courtney Benham 'Napa' Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Posted Sep 17, 2020[Verified]
IT'S BETTER THAN OK"Nice quaffing wine. For 16, I was not expecting much, but after the second tasting I was pretty impressed, so this review represents an update. Cherry, strawberry and mild tannins. I enjoyed it, and I'd rate it a very respectable 91."
Bodegas Lan 'Gran Reserva' Rioja 2011
Posted Sep 12, 2020[Verified]
INCREDIBLE"Beautiful dense, rich, fruit bomb. I love this vintner, I've been buying Bodegas Lan wines for 20+ years. Black fruit, cherry and vanilla. Its perfect."
Lapostolle 'Cuvee Alexander' Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Posted Aug 31, 2020[Verified]
VERY GOOD, BUT..."IMO, it doesn't match the overall depth of the 2 previous vintages '16 and '17. Good fruit and nice balance, but a weak finish and indistinct tannins."
La Rioja Alta 'Vina Ardanza' Rioja Reserva Especial 2010
Posted Jul 31, 2020[Verified]
SPECTACULAR"On the nose, beautiful fruit including cherry, strawberry and blackberry. Nicely integrated oak gives a mid palate hint of vanilla and leather. The finish is long and luxurious. You will not likely find a better expression of a perfectly crafted Rioja"
Marques de Caceres Rioja Reserva 2015
Posted Jun 14, 2020[Verified]
VERY GOOD"Tart cherry and blackberry. Nice long finish. Pretty hard to beat at this price. These guys are very consistent year after year. Equally good for quaffing and pairing with beef."
Teso La Monja Almirez Toro 2016
Posted May 24, 2020[Verified]
MAGNIFICENT"I've bought this a few vintages in a row, and I was actually chasing a repurchase of the 2015, but that inventory was gone. No problemo, a quick note to Empire produced the 2016, and this is spectacular. Inky purple in color, full bodied, with notes of chocolate and tobacco. A long finish supported by nicely integrated tannins."
Travaglini 'Gattinara' Nebbiolo 2016
Posted Apr 27, 2020[Verified]
DECENT, NOT GREAT"Good structure, long finish. A pretty classic expression of Nebbiolo. My only complaint is that it seems a tad overpriced. I'd like it at 18, overpriced at 26."
Podere Brizio Rosso di Montalcino 2016
Posted Mar 6, 2020[Verified]
IT'S A BABY BRUNELLO"On the nose, black cherry and ripe strawberries. Rich, and medium bodied, with plenty superfine tannins and juicy, mouthwatering acidity to create a long finish. Easy drinking, but complex enough to evolve with 3 to 5 years of cellaring. A spectacular buy, trust me."
Seghesio Barbera d'Alba 2017
Posted Mar 5, 2020[Verified]
NEVER DISAPPOINTS"I've bought this many different years, and its consistently good, and a great value. Barbera is one of the primary grapes in Piedmont, although a softer style than Nebbiolo. Easy drinking, nice fruit, versatile"
Castello Di Volpaia Chianti Classico 2017
Posted Mar 5, 2020[Verified]
NICE BALANCE AND FINISH, BUT.."Tart cherry, white pepper and floral notes. There is also a layer of minerals in the background. The finish is long and the tannins are refined. However, after 3re tasting, I've decided it's a bit too light for my liking"
Marco & Vittorio Adriano 'Basarin' Barbaresco 2016
Posted Jan 23, 2020[Verified]
EXCEPTIONAL BARGAIN"I'm very familiar with Barbaresco and Italian wines made with Nebbiolo. Most of what I drink has a floor of 40 dollars. That said, this is pretty amazing at this price. Tart cherry and strawberry, with very fine tannins. It's pretty young, so its reasonable to expect some further depth with time."
Justin Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Posted Jan 13, 2020[Verified]
CONSISTENT"I haven't had Justin cab in a few years, but it was an early (10+ years ago) favorite and it remains a very good expression of the Paso Robles region in California. Fruit forward with nice balance and a medium finish."
Chateau De Francs Les Cerisiers Bordeaux 2015
Posted Jan 7, 2020[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL BORDEAUX"Luscious Bordeaux that really shows the influence of the Merlot (90pct). Nice bit of oak, along with cherry and blackberries. I'm going right back for a case. Great value. Update: After I drank the first bottle, I went back and bought 16 more, and 1 day later, it was all gone. When you find something you like, snatch it up."
Marchesi di Barolo 'Maraia' Barbera Monferrato 2017
Posted Jan 6, 2020[Verified]
REALLY GOOD VALUE"Too bad it's already gone. I'd rarely find a wine at this price interesting, but this was a nice, very drinkable quaffing wine"
Terra Noble Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Posted Jan 4, 2020[Verified]
AMAZING VALUE"I'll continue to say that the best values in Cabernet are in So. America, and this is no exception. Nicely balanced between fruit and finish, and good structure. Decent finish, although I'd prefer a bit more grip. But this should appeal to a wide section of consumers."
Sette Ponti Crognolo 2015
Posted Nov 6, 2019[Verified]
SPECTACULAR"This blend of Sangiovese and Merlot is beautifully balanced. Fresh and lively, with a long finish, I rate this Super Tuscan at a solid 93-94. This is the 3rd time I've bought it. Its becoming a must-have favorite."
Beringer 'Knights Valley' Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Posted Sep 30, 2019[Verified]
AFTER 2ND TASTING, I LOVE IT"I like it, it has nice balance, but initially seemed a bit lacking in structure. Second testing revealed the tannins to be a bit more pronounced creating a longer finish and a better candidate to pair with food. This is a very good value."
Pentimento Montagne-St.Emilion 2014
Posted Sep 28, 2019[Verified]
SIMPLY DELIGHTFUL"Main flavors on first taste were tart cherry and white pepper. A spicy background reminiscent of a red zinfandel. I just quaffed, and haven't paired it with food yet, but I could go all night with this approach. Only bought 6, so I will do a quick repeat."
Teso La Monja Almirez Toro 2015
Posted May 26, 2019[Verified]
CONSISTENTLY AWESOME"This is my 4th or 5th consecutive vintage purchased. It just gets better every year. It's a crazy good value, that is as drinkable now as it is age worthy. 2015 vintage was rated 94, and here us the evidence."
Chateau de Laussac Cotes de Castillon 2015
Posted May 26, 2019[Verified]
REALLY EXCELLENT"So I learned a couple things... Merlot is the primary grape of Cotes de Castillon, and wines of this style are still very typically a Bordeaux. This is beautifully balanced, and surprisingly big. It's a definite do-over."
Daou Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Posted Jan 29, 2019[Verified]
VERY GOOD"Liked it, although I expect it will benefit from a few years aging. I'd like the tannins a bit stronger to support the finish. Very drinkable."
Lapostolle 'Cuvee Alexander' Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Posted Jan 29, 2019[Verified]
EXCELLENT"Having just finished my last bottle of the 2014 vintage, I ordered a case of the 15. I like it almost as much, and I expect it to age nicely and gain even more complexity"
Dry Creek Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Posted Jan 29, 2019[Verified]
CONSISTENTLY VERY GOOD"I have bought this 4-5 years in a row. It's always very good as is their Heritage Clone Zinfandel"
Villa Pillo 'Borgoforte' Red 2014
Posted Jan 7, 2019[Verified]
WHAT?"Look, it's ok. But I'm sorry, Wine Spectator its not a top 25. I'd call this a drinkable table red, but nothing more. Don't get me wrong, its fine for the price, but that's as far as I can go."
Lapostolle 'Cuvee Alexander' Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Posted Jan 7, 2019[Verified]
FANTASTIC, WISH I BOUGHT MORE"Unfortunately, my review comes after stock is depleted. But this was spectacular. I'm going to try to find more. A cab that is this rich for $17 is an amazing deal."
Paolo Scavino Nebbiolo 2016
Posted Dec 3, 2018[Verified]
VERY GOOD"While I don't agree this could be sold as a Barolo, I do concur that it's a good predictor of future Barolos from this vintage, and a typical Nebbiolo. Some may find it a bit too austere, but I appreciate the structure and adherence to Piemonte standards for this grape."
Teso La Monja Almirez Toro 2014
Posted Dec 3, 2018[Verified]
FANTASTIC"Big, bold and balanced. I'm just now buying my 3rd case."
Emilio Moro Tempranillo 2015
Posted Mar 2, 2018[Verified]
TRADITIONAL"Only tasted 1st bottle. More accurately a 3.5 rating. It's a typical i.e., old world Tempranillo. Perhaps not as big as my tastes run, but I love my reds big and bold. Versatile"
Obalo Rioja Reserva 2010
Posted Mar 2, 2018[Verified]
OUTSTANDING"Inky purple in color, medium to full bodied, beautiful fruit. Super complex finish. Big enough to stand up to beef, but also great as a cheese/salami quaffing wine. Predict it can go 10-15 years easily. I nought 4, next order will be at least a case"
Dry Creek Vineyards Heritage Clone Zinfandel 2015
Posted Jan 28, 2018[Verified]
IN A WORD, SUPERB"Probably my 4th year in a row buying this, and simply beautiful. Medium to full body, deep cherry and BlackBerry, and the thing I crave most about Red Zin, that peppery, spicy finish. It's a gift at this price. I'll buy another case in a few weeks."
Bodegas Palacios Remondo La Montesa 2014
Posted Jan 26, 2018[Verified]
VERY NICE"This is a nice surprise, especially for the money. Very balanced, medium bodied, with a better finish than I expected. Very good value."
Finca Decero 'Remolinos Vnyd' Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Posted Feb 20, 2017[Verified]
PHENOMENAL VALUE"Beautiful balance, lots of cherry and black fruit on the nose. At $14, this is a tremendous bargain. I've bought it twice, and will likely get another case"
Descendientes de J. Palacios Bierzo 'Petalos' 2013
Posted Mar 14, 2016[Verified]
I LOVE IT"I get blueberry and chalk on the nose, and tart cherry and strawberry on the palate. The tannins are buttery and smooth. Medium body. A great value, I will reorder more."
Teso La Monja Almirez Toro 2012
Posted Mar 14, 2016[Verified]
4.5 STARS AND LOOKING UP"Inky, purple and full-bodied. Lots of nose, including black cherry, blackberry and granite. The difference on the finish was huge between just quaffing and having with food. In the latter case, finish was long and complex. I expect this muscular red to improve significantlying with 2-4 years of cellaring."
Chateau La Croix Lartigue Cotes de Castillon 2010
Posted Mar 1, 2016[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL NOW, ALSO LIKELY TO IMPROVE"Undertones of mocha and coffee pairing nicely with dense fruit flavors. I find this very well balanced, and worthy of reordering. My actual rating is 4.5."
Black Stallion Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Posted May 21, 2015[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL CAB"Classic Napa cabernet, fruit forward, integrated tannins and nice backbone of oak. Easily drinks like a $35 cab."
La Rioja Alta 'Vina Ardanza' Rioja Reserva 2005
Posted Apr 7, 2015
BIG AND BOLD"Great Rioja. Big enough to stand up any dish, smooth enough for quaffing with cheese and olives."
Nobilo Wines 'Icon' Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Posted Jan 6, 2015
CRISP AND REFRESHING"Very nice SB from Marlborough. A bit less grapefruit compared to my other favorite Whitehaven"
Vietti 'Tre Vigne' Barbera d'Asti 2011
Posted Jun 19, 2014[Verified]
NICE BARBERA"This would be a typical ( that means good, BTW) Barbera d'Asti. When I say typical, I mean less tannic, so I disagree with ST rating in that regard. The fruit is deep and rich. Although I generally prefer a bit more grip from the tannins, as can be found with the Barberas from Alba, this still rates nicely."
Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Posted Dec 7, 2013
CLASSIC NZ SB"Crisp, clean and refreshing. Notes of grapefruit, lime and green grass makes this my favorite, especially at this modest price. Crisp and dry with high acidity, makes this a perfect match with rich shellfish or pasta with cream sauce."
Moccagatta 'Bric Balin' Barbaresco 2010
Posted Dec 7, 2013[Verified]
NEVER DISAPPOINTS"This is not a review of the 2010, because I won't be opening it for 5 years or more. But i have bought this wine every year starting in 1998. It is a must-have for any serious wine drinker. I just drank my first of the 2000 vintage and it was magnificent. I confess that I love the nebbiolo grape, and all the wines that come from it... Barbaresco, Barolo and Barbera. I post this review to encourage those who haven't tried to dive in. Molto bene"
Whitehaven Sauvignon Blanc 2012
Posted Sep 28, 2013
CRISP AND REFRESHING"Crisp and acidic, this SB was perfect with lobster and drawn butter. Notes of grapefruit. Great with food or just quaffing on a hot summer day."
Bodegas Lan Rioja Reserva 2007
Posted May 17, 2013[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL"A bit different because there's a nice layer of oak running through it. A very pleasant surprise. This is one of my fave Spanish vintners."
Terrasses de Frigoulet Coteaux du Languedoc 2011
Posted May 17, 2013[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL FOR THE PRICE"$9? Hard for me to ever get excited at that range, but this drinks like a $15 Cotes du Rhone, but better because it's more muscular"
Araldica 'Albera' Barbera d'Asti 2012
Posted Feb 1, 2013[Verified]
VERY NICE BARBERA"I am a huge fan of the nebbiolo grape, and my collection includes many Barolos and Barbarescos. But this Barbera di Asti is the best I have ever tasted under $10. I generally buy Barbera d'Alba, and usually pay high teens. Very good value here."
Falesco Vitiano Rosso IGT 2012
Posted Feb 1, 2013[Verified]
ANOTHER YEAR, SAME GREAT WINE"Falesco Vitiano is just one of those value reds you can buy year after year..it's always good. And at $9? Great value."
Chateau Lilian Ladouys St. Estephe 2009
Posted Mar 26, 2012[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL NOW"I bought 6, but am going back for a case. If I really try, maybe I can actually lay a few down for aging. I give this a 93 now, but I could see the score rising 1-3 points depending. Very balanced."
Buehler Zinfandel 2009
Posted Nov 26, 2011[Verified]
BALANCE AND FINESSE"A classic zin with beautiful balance. Big enough to enjoy with a steak but equally-satisfying just for quaffing or with appetizers. Hints of berry and cheery with a layer of vanilla and oak."
La Crema 'Monterey' Chardonnay 2009
Posted Jun 21, 2011
RICH AND THICK"The chard is rich and thick on the palette allowing the fruits and honey to linger until the butterscotch shows. For <$15? That's crazy good."
MacRostie Chardonnay 2009
Posted Jun 21, 2011[Verified]
EVERYTHING IN BALANCE"This is a beautifully crafted chardonnay from Sonoma that nicely balances the citrus and green apple with a faint layer of butterscotch and oak. Nicely structured so that every layer presents itself."
Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
Posted Apr 25, 2011[Verified]
TOP NOTCH CABERNET VALUE"If you like your Cabernets with structure, it is hard to imagine a better offering at $18. The fine tannins give this vintage the all important grip that seems to be missing from so many value-priced cabs these days. Although I am sure this will age very nicely, even now the pleasure factor is high."
Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Cabernet 2009
Posted Jan 23, 2011[Verified]
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL"I had been spoiled by the St.Michelle 'Canoe Ridge' Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 @ $26.95, so I decided to dive this a try. The 90 rating from WS is well-deserved. Mouth-filling and fruit-forward, but everyting in perfect balance. Considering the price @ $13< this is a steal!"
Bodegas Lan 'Culmen' Rioja Reserva 2005
Posted Jul 19, 2010[Verified]
VERY IMPRESSIVE RIOJA"1st tasting 7/18/10, and although very complex and well-structured, I believe it could benefit from another year or two of cellaring to smooth out the tannins."
Cht St. Michelle 'Canoe Ridge' Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Posted Jun 22, 2010[Verified]
BEAUTIFUL CABERNET AT BARGAIN PRICE"This is a very fine effort from Cht St.Michelle, who may not be thought of as a producer of fine Cabernets. The 2007 is a nicely-balanced cab, integrating the fruit, oak and tannins nicely. In my view, Napa cabs of equal quality would be $10-15 higher. I would score this a 91-92."
