Vintage: 2005
Type: Rioja
Country: Spain
This rioja was perfectly acceptable as riojas go. A little young, so it was quite acidic with a full, meaty body. I detected a bit of vanilla in the taste, which was quite pleasant.
The Gran Reserva from Berberana is much better.
Vintage: 2005
Type: Cabernet Sauvignon
Country: Hungary – Villany
This Cabernet Sauvignon, from the Villany region of Hungary, was enjoyable and full of flavour. It had great deep colour and a pleasant bouquet. As Hungarian Cabernet Sauvignons go it was middle of the pack, which means that it is a good wine (though I find Hungarian wine a bit over-priced).
Vintage: Non-Vintage
Type: Champagne – Blanc de Blancs
Country: France
I tried this champagne at a tasting evening that had some amazing champagne. Unfortunately this one probably suffered because of it. I found the champagne a bit sharp on the pallet and with a slightly unpleasant after taste. surprising as it is a Blanc de Blancs, usually a favourite type of champagne for me.
Vintage: Non-Vintage
Type: Champagne
Country: France – Reims
One of the big houses, Veuve is quite easy to find, a bit expensive and a reliable champagne. It is probably my favourite of the big houses (perhaps Mercier but it is much harder to find). Great flavour, good bubbles and a dry finish.
Vintage: 2004
Type: Vintage Champagne – Grand Cru
Country: France
This vintage champagne is absolutely outstanding. Everything that you come to expect from Michel Lenique but with that vintage taste and finish. excellent bubbles and a great flavour. Not to be had every day though, save this bottle for a special occasion!
Vintage: 2001
Type: Rioja Gran Reserva
Country: Spain
An Excellent Rioja that has been aged well. Great bold full flavours and an excellent finish. A blend of 80% Tempranillo and 20% Grenache.
Vintage: Non-Vintage
Type: Champagne – Blanc de Blancs
Country: France – Pierry
This champagne is fantastic. Great overall taste with plenty of small refined bubbles. A gem, if you can find it!
Vintage: 2005
Type: Pinot Noir
Country: Canada – Okanagan Valley
This bottle was a wedding gift from the Hotel that we stayed at. It’s a good wine, with nice colour and a decent bouquet (for a Pinot Noir). The flavour is a bit light in complexity for my palette, but it would be a good summer wine to enjoy.