2011

A split half-dozen courtesy of Planet of the Grapes, with both the 2011 and 2012 vintages. Planting them side-by-side, both were modern styles of …

I am now convinced by Etna Rosso. I get why people are raving about it. It’s a unique style, and in Nerello Mascalese, Sicily …

Very interesting to try a pure McLaren Vale Grenache – particularly as it was denser, and more tannicly structured than the Barossa – just …

Another class Ridge Zin. Mid ruby-purple, with a medium rim. Sweet, fruits-of-the-forest bery fruit. Black pepper spice. Oak / wood spice, cinnamon, vanilla, and …

In the Syrah / Malbec line-up, all the Northern Rhône Syrahs were from the 2011 vintage, to maximise comparability. The quality of this stood …

As elegant as its packaging. Napa, yes, but in harmony and refined. Retasted in October, it was the same. Deep ruby, with a narrow, …

By contrast, a fairly deep purple colour, blue and blackberry fruit character to the compote fruit. Some violet and liquorice / medicinal notes emerge. …

The wine of the Pinot flight, with a suppleness, elegance and delicacy that stroked and danced across the palate. Showed its pricey class. Pale …

As explained on the prior page, the 1er Cru difference was greater flavour density – real depth – and earthy mineral complexity. Medium colour …

This and its 1er Cru partner were the 2011 Gevrey-Chambertin examples, and they were both very good. Many thanks to Becca for giving me …