Red
268. d’Arenberg, Shiraz Viognier The Laughing Magpie McLaren Vale, 2003
A pleasant drink but an advert for taking 0.5-1% off the ABV. Was browsing a wine shop in Kilkenny when I noticed a few …
267. Mount Veeder Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 1997
Was really pleased to see this on sale in Berry Bros’ Dublin shop, having enjoyed the ’96 so much, and having heard that ’97 …
266. Château de Saint Cosme, Côtes-du-Rhône, 2003
Seeing this in Dundrum Harvey Nicks at €10, from the Barruols, I had to try it (given the quality of their Gigondas). Great value …
265. Geyser Peak Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Alexander Valley, 2002
Held onto this for 6 months or so, but got impatient to try it. In fact, it probably didn’t have much long-term ageing potential …
264. Henschke, Keyneton Estate Euphonium Barossa, 2002
My first taste of Henschke, who are reputed to be one of Australia’s finest, and make one of Aus’ iconic wines. But I baulked …
263. Paul Jaboulet Aîné, Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Cèdres, 2001
That’s fucking it! Another corked bottle – there must be a better way!! Thankfully this was on product allowance, given the price. But the …
259. Bodegas Matarromera, Ribera del Duero Reserva, 2001
Perplexing one this – and ultimately a touch frustrating. With an intense, complex nose and good concentration, my initial reaction was positive, but slightly …
258. Castelinho, Douro Colheita Especial, 2000
Recommended to me by the guy in The Corkscrew near Grafton Street, as something different. Opened up after a day, so I’d say needs …
256. Louis Latour, Côte de Beaune-Villages, 2003
Given that this was from the roasting 2003 vintage, this had a surprising lack of concentration – maybe the early-picked (and therefore underripe) fruit …
255. Bodegas Faustino, Faustino I Rioja Gran Reserva, 1995
Good to test the top of Faustino’s range, and from a good year too. Satisfies: a pleasant Rioja. Mid-depth, garnet core with a medium …