Somnambulistic Dribblings

Chateau Moulin Bellegrave 2006

2010-12-28T10:55:00.000Z

The Top 100 Wines: Chateau Moulin Bellegrave 2006

As good a 'basic' St Emilion as I have tried.

Plenty of body, good flavours without being particularly complex and a smooth finish. Thoroughly enjoyable with some cold meats and cheese. Might improve in a year or two but I found it pleasant drinking now and evidence that you don't necessarily need to limit St Emilions to Grand Crus or GC Classes. I'd look out for this again at the right price.

Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva 2005

2010-06-07T21:55:00.002+01:00

Name: Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva 2005

Colour: Red

Country: Spain

Region: Rioja

Year: 2005

Producer: Campo Viejo

Grape Varieties: Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo

Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: £9.99 (Sainsburys)

Notes:Maker's tasting notes – Aged in barrel for 18 months. This Reserva exudes flavours of warm cinnamon, cigar box and ripe red fruits. An exceptionally smooth wine with hints of spicy oak. Perfect with game stew or roast shoulder of lamb.

Somnambulists verdict:

Campo Viejo seems to be everywhere, and being a bit of a 'brand' wine (with a different bottle for every market niche - a bit like Volkswagen for wine), it's fair to view it with a little apprehension... but let's not get snobby about this. We're at the supermarket end after all, not browsing the carte-des-vins at the Manoir aux Quatres Saisons, where you could exchange a case of this for a bottle of the house wine and probably get some change... (yes, yes, M. Blanc does have impeccable taste...

...click here to read the full review at TheTop100.net!

Leopard's Leap Chenin Blanc Sauvignon Blanc 2008

2009-10-03T19:00:00.002+01:00

Name: Leopard’s Leap Chenin Blanc Sauvignon Blanc
Colour: White
Country: South Africa
Region: Franschhoek
Year: 2008
Producer: Leopard’s Leap Winery
Grape Varieties: Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: £4.32 (1/3^rd off offer, Sainsburys)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes –

This ripe, zesty blend of the tropical fruit richness of Chenin Blanc with the crisp, gooseberry and green pepper freshness of Sauvignon Blanc is a superb expression of the beautiful winelands of South Africa's Western Cape. Delightfully fruity, this juicy white wine is delicious on its own, or as the perfect partner to seafood, fish, chicken, and salads.

Somnambulist's verdict:

South African whites? Hmmm I take some convincing, and wouldn’t have picked this one off the shelf personally. My scepticism waned quickly on the first, deep sniff, however. Melons. Ripe and fruity melons. Big, fat, mouthwatering, juicy, greeny-gold, mouth-watering, succulent MELONS. Wow! They give way a little to some citrus tones, and perhaps a whiff of violet… but then it’s back to the melons, and boy do I love melons J

But it gets better on the palate. It’s got gusto and tang without being too feisty, there’s something like buttered asparagus, and it has smokiness and structure, yet somehow remains light and sippily seductive. I thought about some lovely Pouilly-Fumes and wondered how they would stack up… maybe I was just in a good mood but I really loved this!

In the sub-fiver basement hunt for bargains, I’ve come across a few crackers here and there. Occasionally, no, pretty rarely, I come across one that I think would fool me flat out that it was a more expensive wine. This is one of them – top quality at an every day price… ship it in.

Oyster Bay Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2008

2009-06-14T10:52:00.003+01:00

Name: Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Colour: White

Country: New Zealand

Region: Marlborough

Year: 2008

Producer: Oyster Bay Wines

Grape Varieties: Sauvignon Blanc

Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: £6.99 (reduced-price offer, Tesco from £9.99)

Notes:Maker's tasting notes –Pale straw green in colour with brilliant clarity, Oyster Bay Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is zesty and aromatic with lots of lively, penetrating fruit characters. A concentration of tropical and gooseberry flavours with an abundant bouquet, it is a wine that is always crisp, elegant and refreshing.

Somnambulist's verdict:
Admittedly this one doesn’t qualify in the ‘quality-for-£5-and-under’ hunt, but it snuck into the trolley under the radar anyway, and I’m rather pleased it did. Like a stylish new arrival at an otherwise dreary drinks party, it’s a bit of a head-turner: pale green with glints of gold, gentle honeysuckle on the nose that gives way to gooseberries and rhubarb, but softened by something sweet. You know from the first twinkling moment that there’s bags of character waiting to indulge you.

.
There’s a flash of acidity – a gooseberry tang and a hint of limes – but it’s subtle and rides well over a sultry, mouth-filling body, almost chewy. Bold and lively, sherbet lemons fizz mischievously around the tongue, daring you to take another sip, and then another. There’s nothing dull about this wine, without being pretentious it’s a wannabe Champagne. It’s not content to sit quietly and waste time with small talk, it wants to get the party started!

Like a great night out that comes from deciding at the last minute to stay at home, it’s a sexy Sauvignon for a sumptuous summer. Enjoy!

Hardys Crest Brut Rose Sparkling NV

2009-05-20T11:36:00.007+01:00

Name: Hardys Crest Brut Rose Sparkling

Colour: Rose

Country: Australia

Region: South East

Year: NV

Producer: Thomas Hardy & Sons

Grape Varieties: Colombard, Sultana, Cabernet Sauvignon

Alcohol: 11.5%

Purchase Price: £5.90 (half-price offer, Tesco)

Notes:Maker's tasting notes –

Somnambulist's verdict: We’re on the hunt for bargains, and to date it’s fiendishly difficult to find quality and cut-price in a sparkler. Half-price offers always present the chance of some unexpected value and so I cheerily grabbed a bottle of this Ozzie pink fizz, stuck it in the cooler and lit the barbie… While the prawns sizzled away I took some time to try and appreciate the delicate aromas - boy are they delicate. After a few sniffs I ended up with my conk halfway down the glass, inhaling furiously through my nostrils like a spin-bowler in a night-club dunny, just trying to get a recognisable scent. There’s some ‘gentle’ fruits there, let’s call them Summery: melon and strawberries, perhaps. Pleasant enough, but steamrollered on the first sip. It’s drier than an outback waterhole in a drought, and it's got a vicious acid sharpness. The kind that runs off that spin-bowler’s tongue when he’s busy sledging the opening batsman at The Oval, and which leaves a long, sour, pithy after-taste. Only a chilli-dipped giant prawn (or a six knocked straight back over the cocky bowler’s head) can deal with that…

Chuck this one in the bin of bum bargain bubblies and move on.

Le Pierrey Pouilly-Fume 2006

2009-05-13T09:30:00.003+01:00

Name: Le Pierrey Pouilly-Fume

Colour: White

Country: France

Region: Pouilly-Fume

Year: 2006

Producer: Le Vigneron Recoltant

Grape Varieties: Sauvignon Blanc

Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: €6.40

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes –Made from Sauvignon grapes grown around Boisgibault, on South-West facing flint, clay and chalky soil. It is a dry, white wine with a smoky bouquet and a supple, fresh taste.

Somnambulist's verdict: An odd nose, which I can only describe as a mix of bananas and elderflowers. This is quickly replaced by the sharp acidity on the palate. There's fresh fruit, oranges I thought, but it's also a touch floral, and the alcohol drives through and pervades far too obviously. Overall, rather a disappointment – so, find another Pouilly-Fume!

Gran Familia White Rioja 2008

2009-05-10T10:04:00.002+01:00

Name: Gran Familia

Colour: White

Country: Spain

Region: Rioja

Year: 2008

Producer: Castillo de Fuenmayor

Grape Varieties: Malvasia, Viura

Alcohol: 12%

Purchase Price: £4 (ASDA)

Notes:Maker's tasting notes – Softly aromatic with hints of fruits and fresh flowers. Fruity and fresh on the dry palate with pleasing citrus notes. White Rioja is a delicious revelation to many wine drinkers. Castillo de Fuenmayor, located near Logroño at the heart of Rioja Alta, uses knowledge and skills passed down through generations together with modern winemaking techniques to make excellent wines widely acclaimed by press and the public alike. The famous vineyards of Rioja Alta are recognised as the finest in the region. The climate of moderate rainfall and long hot summers is perfect for producing high quality wines. The majority of this white Rioja was fermented in stainless steel to help retain the fresh flavours of the Viura and Malvasia grape varieties. 15% of the wine was matured in French oak barrels for 6 months to give body and very light oak flavours.

Somnambulist's verdict: White Riojas tend to be a bit of a lottery in my experience, but since the Gran Familia Red was such a bargain find, it seemed worthwhile trying the white…and rather pleased that I did. It has a very enticing bouquet, a gentle citrusy mix of grapefruit and mandarin, and a fresh and tangy taste that’s both subtle and full – a bit like sucking on a cube of mandarin jelly (if there is such a thing!). The slight disappointment was the finish. If anyone remembers Parma Violets, they’d recognise that chalky, perfumed flavour in a flash. Nothing that can’t be undone by an olive or two, so don’t let it put you off! Thumbs up to this one…

Ogio Pinot Grigio 2008

2009-05-07T13:53:00.003+01:00

Name: Ogio Pinot Grigio

Colour: White

Country: Italy

Region: Venezie

Year: 2008

Producer: Alessandro Botter

Grape Varieties: Pinot Grigio

Alcohol: 12%

Purchase Price: £4.26 (half-price offer, Tesco)

Notes:Maker's tasting notes – A crisp dry white with delicious fresh lemon & lime flavours.

Somnambulist's verdict: It’s getting warmer and the occasional balmy evenings lend themselves to something light and white. Continuing the Somnambulistic search for value wines under £5 a bottle, I took advantage of Tesco’s half-price offer to try this stylishly branded Pinot Grigio.
.

It’s got a sweet, fruity nose, like strong orange blossom – or even orange sherbert J - which belies a tart dash of lime on the palate. That first tang of citric acidity is pleasantly washed away by a large dollop of whipped cream. This wine reminded me of a bowl of Key Lime Pie, which is not necessarily a bad thing – I leave you to make the call on that – but it fitted the bill perfectly for watching the sun dip behind the apple trees…

Asda Portuguese Tinto

2009-05-01T06:00:00.000+01:00

Name: ASDA Portuguese Tinto

Colour: Red

Country: Portugal

Region: n/a

Year: NV

Producer: Enoport-DT, Producao de Bebidas, SA.

Grape Varieties: ?

Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: £3.38 (ASDA)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – (ASDA) A full bodied red wine with brambley red fruits and a nice smooth finish.

“A lovely, smooth and fruity red, ripened in the Portuguese sunshine. It's great with spicy food like chilli con carne” Phillippa Carr, Asda's Master of Wine.

Somnambulist's verdict: OK, let’s be honest, at £3.38 expectations are low. This is basic table wine, the like of which you’d pick up in a Portuguese supermarket for less than a bottle of water. Still, I gave it a full chance, decanting and allowing it to breathe for 30 mins before trying… and it wasn’t dreadful. There’s dark chocolate, a whiff of vanilla and some red fruits in there. These are flavours that can be crafted into intoxicating blends in the hands of a skilled wine-maker. Alas, I think in this case it’s more akin to shovelling everything into a large vat with all the finesse of a greedy schoolkid stuffing random confectionery into a rather acidic paper bag.

There are a lot worse things you can do with £3.38, but I’d suggest making it up to a fiver and going for one of the other superb budget wines available. If you’re going to try it, take Phillippa Carr’s advice and drink it with chilli, or in fact any very strongly spiced food that stands a good chance of masking the flavour…

Daniel Champion Brut Reserve

2009-04-30T05:00:00.000+01:00

Name: Daniel Champion Brut Reserve

Colour: White

Country: France

Region: Champagne

Year: NV

Producer: Daniel Champion

Grape Varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier

Alcohol: 12%

Purchase Price: EUR 13 (Direct from producer)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – Made with the traditional grapes from our terroir, cellared for 5 years. The pinot noir makes this wine an exclusive reserve for connoisseurs.

Somnambulist's verdict: (apologies if I have brutalised the translation from French above) – I visited Champagne Champion a while back having tried their wine on recommendation, and was made extremely welcome, tasting all they had to offer! Le Millesime is the pick of the bunch, but this Reserve, at EUR 13 a bottle (before bulk discount!) is a steal. It’s smoother than the regular Brut (which is a little too apple-y for me), with subtle fruits, smokey and fresh, with a biscuit finish. I wrote ‘apple crumble’ on my notes, which I assume was either a summary or my dessert option :-)

La Chasse du Pape Reserve Rouge 2007

2009-04-29T05:00:00.004+01:00

Name: La Chasse du Pape Reserve

Colour: Red

Country: France

Region: Cotes-du-Rhone

Year: 2007

Producer: Maison Gabriel Meffre

Grape Varieties: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Mourvedre

Alcohol: 14%

Purchase Price: £5 (ASDA)

Notes:
IWSC 2008 SILVER. QUALITY AWARD.

Maker's tasting notes – The name La Châsse Du Pape is derived from the historic chest that contained the great reliquaries of the Popes who lived in Avignon during the 14th century. La Châsse Du Pape Réserve is sourced from the finest southern Côtes Du Rhône vineyards. Our winemakers carefully select the noble grapes Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault to achieve the best expression of this classic Appellation. La Châsse Du Pape Réserve is a full bodied, round and harmonious wine with delicate hints of spices and vanilla, thanks to ageing of the Syrah in oak barrels.

Somnambulist's verdict: Another bargain cracker – decant this one and let it breathe for an hour or so to get the most out of this lovely smooth, yet spicey blend. I’d be very hard pushed to differentiate it from Chateauneufs 2 or 3 times this price, even side by side. I’ve also seen this at much higher prices at other supermarkets and wine stores, so if there’s an Asda near you go and put a few in the trolley. Alternatively use their home delivery service, which I found infinitely better than Sainsbury’s.

Gran Familia Rioja 2008

2009-04-28T09:54:00.007+01:00

Name: Gran Familia

Colour: Red

Country: Spain

Region: Rioja

Year: 2008

Producer: Castillo de Fuenmayor

Grape Varieties: Tempranillo 90%, Graciano 10%

Alcohol: 12.5%

Purchase Price: £4-5 (Asda)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – Gran Familia is a classic Rioja red wine in the much-loved smooth, mellow style. It comes from one of the region's very best bodegas. Our winemakers select high quality Tempranillo and Graciano grapes and the wine is matured in our cellars for 8 months to create the perfect balance of luscious fruit and silky tannins. Full-bodied with plenty of meaty, warm, ripe red fruit flavours. Drinking well now, but will improve in your cellar for up to three years.

Somnambulist's verdict: Another great find in the search for value at £5 and under. Everyone who has tried this at the Somnambulistic table has really enjoyed it. A+ for value-for-money.

Grizzly Bear Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

2009-02-13T07:24:00.005Z

Name: Grizzly Bear

Colour: Red

Country: USA

Region: Central Valley, California

Year: 2007

Producer: Zimmermann-Graeff & Mueller

Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon

Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: £3.33 (£10 for 3 offer, Sainsburys)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – A full-bodies red wine with masses of plum and blackcurrant flavours, finished with toasty oak and subtle chocolate notes. Excellent with steak or roast dinner.

Somnambulist's verdict: I don’t often choose Cab Sav varietals especially not at the bargain-basement end but somehow this found its way into the shopping trolley and I’m very pleased it did. This is a very quaffable red, loads of fruity flavours (I’d add cherries to the black fruits mentioned above) with a smooth long finish. I have no idea how a Mosel weingut ends up bottling Californian reds but it doesn’t really matter – at 3 bottles for a tenner I am filling the cellar with this excellent everyday drinker.

Chateau Mas Del Perie 2006

2009-02-09T08:40:00.005Z

Name: Chateau Mas Del Perie

Colour: Red

Country: France

Region: Cahors

Year: 2006

Producer: Marie-Rose Ortalo

Grape Varieties: 100% Malbec

Alcohol: 12.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 4.00 (supermarket, France)
.

Notes:
.

Maker’s tasting notes – Deep red with purple reflections. Nose very fruity, with a little spicy red fruits. Subtle and balanced with strong tannins.
.

Somnambulist's verdict: A good, if simple example of the “black” wines of Cahors. Very dry and very strong tannins – a bit too chewy to drink on its own, needs meat or cheese to soften it up. Definitely worth a try at this price if you fancy a change of varietal.

Chateau Cheval Brun 2005

2009-01-31T05:00:00.000Z

Name: Chateau Cheval Brun
Colour: Red
Country: France
Region: St Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux
Year: 2005
Producer: Familie Riviere
Grape Varieties: 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc
Alcohol: 12.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 20.00 (wine merchants, France)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – deep and intense crimson robe. Fine nose of ripe grapes, with elegant toasted and vanilla oak aromas confirmed in the mouth. Elegance, balance and harmony.

Somnambulist's verdict: I’d not heard of this St Emilion before, and raised a slightly suspicious eyebrow given the similarity of the name to the famous Cheval Blanc. This was totally misguided, and proved to be the consensus favourite of all the wines tried over the holiday period. It’s unctuous, smooth as silk, with gorgeous rounded flavours. Very highly recommended.

Gervrey-Chambertin "Monte-Ronde" 2005

2009-01-30T05:00:00.001Z

Name: Gevrey-Chambertin “Monte-Ronde”
Colour: Red
Country: France
Region: Gevrey-Chambertin, Burgundy
Year: 2005
Producer: Bertrand de Monceny
Grape Varieties: Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: EUR 20.00 (wine merchants, France)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – n/a

Somnambulist's verdict: Brilliant! Fresh, rich, complex with a long finish. Hints of strawberries and perhaps tobacco. Couldn’t resist stocking up :-)

Meursault "Les Corbins" 2004

2009-01-29T05:00:00.003Z

Name: Meursault “Les Corbins”
Colour: White
Country: France
Region: Burgundy, Cote de Beaune
Year: 2004
Producer: Michel Picard
Grape Varieties: Chardonnay
Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: EUR 29.00 (wine merchants, France)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – Colour: Pale yellow with gold tints.
Nose: Strong toasted notes at the beginning then aromas of yellow fruits and almond.
Palate: Powerful and fat mouthfeel with harmonious boisé and fruity flavours.

Somnambulist's verdict: I’m not sure about “yellow fruits” and “mouthfeel” but this is a quite splendid white Burgundy. It seems only this region can get such a dry steeliness and complexity from the Chardonnay grape, and this is a wonderful example. I loved it.

Vina Albali Gran Reserva Seleccion Privada 2001

2009-01-28T10:39:00.004Z

Name: Vina Albali Gran Reserva Seleccion Privada
Colour: Red
Country: Spain
Region: Valdepenas
Year: 2001
Producer: Felix Solis
Grape Varieties: Tempranillo
Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: GBP 5.00 (Tescos, on offer reduced from £10)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – Deep ruby-red in colour with amber tones. This mature wine has a complex elegant bouquet with hints of leather and spices. On the palate it is well balanced and expressive, with rounded and polished tannins.

Awards: Viña Albali Gran Reserva Selección Privada 2001

- International Wine and Spirit Competition 2008. Silver Medal “Best in class"

- International Wine Challenge 2008. United Kingdom. Commended

Somnambulist's verdict: Perhaps a shade more refined than the Viña Albali Gran Reserva (although that’s hard to tell without tasting them side-by-side), but at this offer price is fantastic value. Go to your local Tescos and clear the shelves :-)

Alborato 2006

2008-12-20T06:00:00.000Z

Name: Alborato
Colour: Red
Country: Italy
Region: Umbria IGT
Year: 2006
Producer: Cardeto
Grape Varieties: Merlot 70%, Cabernet Franc 30%
Alcohol: 13%
.
Purchase Price: ? (ca. EUR 6.00?)
.
Notes:
.
Maker’s notes – Purple-flecked ruby red, rich and harmonious, releasing smooth spice. Dry, full and velvet-textured, with elegant well-ripened wild berry fruit.

Somnambulist's verdict: Got this as a Christmas freebie and had very low expectations, but still managed to be disappointed. Has a nose that exuded alcohol and little else. Bland and lifeless. More expensive than La Cuvee Mythique – go figure. Brokers used to be more generous in the old days...

Regaleali Nero d'Avola 2006

2008-12-19T06:00:00.000Z

Name: Regaleali
Colour: Red
Country: Italy
Region: Sicilia
Year: 2006
Producer: Tasca d’Almerita
Grape Varieties: Nero d’Avola
Alcohol: 13.5%
.
Purchase Price: EUR 28.00 (restaurant)
.
Notes:
.
Maker’s notes – Bright, intense ruby red. Bouquet: Cherry, mulberry, sour black cherry, blueberry, vanilla, sage. Taste: Pleasantly velvety and well balanced tannins.

Somnambulist's verdict: This came recommended by a restaurateur who clearly knew his onions. And grape varieties. Apparently, the “Nero d’Avola” grape makes wines that compare to New World shirazes. Perhaps, although I didn’t notice any of the harsh, biting pepper that sometimes pervades those wines. Thoroughly enjoyed this wine and will look out for it again…

Il Bruciato 2006

2008-12-18T06:00:00.002Z

Name: Il Bruciato

Colour: Red

Country: Italy

Region: Bolgheri DOC

Year: 2006

Producer: Antinori

Grape Varieties: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 10% Syrah (and other black varieties)

Alcohol: 14%

Purchase Price: EUR 44.00 (restaurant)

Notes:

Maker’s notes – Intense ruby red colour. Aromas of fruit and whole red berries (especially cherries) rather than jam on the nose. Light hints of liquorice and vanilla follow from the oak. Sweet tannins and a dense structure, with a return of the fruit in the aftertaste alongside a hint of saltiness, which gives the wine a lovely harmonious, lingering flavour.

Somnambulist's verdict: This was absolutely superb – rich, fruity, perfect with some fine hams and cheese, and very moreish. So much so that a small group got through 4 or 5 bottles in pretty quick fashion. Interestingly, one bottle was not decanted but served straight to the glass and was remarkably bland by comparison. A perfect reminder for our party about the value of allowing a good wine to breathe.

Veuve Clicquot-Ponsardin Brut Yellow Label NV (magnum)

2008-12-17T06:00:00.002Z

Name: Brut Yellow Label (Magnum)

Colour: White

Country: France

Region: Champagne

Year: N.V.

Producer: Veuve Clicquot

Grape Varieties: 50-55% Pinot Noir, 15-20% Pinot Meunier, 28-33% Chardonnay

Alcohol: 12%

Purchase Price: EUR 155.00 (posh restaurant)

Notes:

Maker’s notes – First, Brut Yellow Label looks beautiful: golden-yellow, with a foaming necklace of tiny bubbles. Next it is so pleasing to the nose: initially reminiscent of white fruits and raisins, then of vanilla and later of brioche. Note the fine balance between the fruity aromas coming from the grape varieties and the toasty aromas following the ageing in the bottle. The first sip delivers all the freshness and forcefulness so typical of Yellow Label with asymphony of fruit tastes following on. Here is a true member of the powerful Brut family, well structured, admirably vinous. The lingering aromas echo and re-echo, with each fruit or spice note distinct. Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label manages to reconcile two opposing factors – forcefulness and finesse - and to hold them in perfect balance. This consistent power to please makes it ideal as an aperitif, and perfect as the Champagne to enjoy with a meal.

Somnambulist's verdict: Err.. a bit humbled by the above verbosity. I think this is probably the best of the big name, mid-price-range NV Champagnes (ignore the premium restaurant price above and use the wine-searcher.com link on this page). “Finesse” is the most appropriate characteristic for this spankingly good wine. A fine and fitting parting gift from a good friend.

The Chocolate Block 2006

2008-12-10T06:00:00.000Z

Name: The Chocolate Block
Colour: Red
Country: South Africa
Region: Franschhoek
Year: 2006
Producer: Boekenhoutskloof
Grape Varieties: 55% Syrah, 17 % Grenache Noir, 15% Cinsault, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Viognier
Alcohol: 14.5%

Purchase Price: EUR ?

Notes:
Maker’s notes – Spicy, dark chocolate surrounded by ripe berry flavours and a fine clove character show in the nose of the Chocolate Block. The Richness of the palate with ripe flavours is in balance with the smooth tannins. This wine has great length with a minimum of 5 years aging potential.

Somnambulist's verdict: Found the initial bouquet a little over sweet, like strawberry confection, but beyond that, wonderful. Deliciously rich, intricate blend of berries, exotic fruits, a touch of pepper and spice, and yes, chocolate. Not a lot of chance of it aging for 5 years in the Somnambulist household.

Marques de Caceres Crianza 2005

2008-12-05T06:00:00.002Z

Name: Crianza

Colour: Red

Country: Spain

Region: Rioja

Year: 2005

Producer: Marques de Caceres

Grape Varieties: 85% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacha Tinta & Graciano

Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 7.62 (Carrefour)

Notes:

Maker’s notes – Attractive, bright ruby red colour. Refined bouquet of black cherries and blackberries with a soft touch of aromatic Mediterranean herbs. Lusciously fresh and fruity in the mouth where rich fruit (cherries, strawberries, raspberries) and notes of cinnamon mingle to give a pleasant fullness with a backbone of silky-smooth tannins. Long-lasting, unctuous finish. A splendid vintage that is velvety-soft and elegant.

Somnambulist's verdict: No doubt this is a good Rioja but I think the winemaker's notes above are going a bit over the top. The flavours are all there but if anything it's a bit on the arid side of dry. Certainly value for money but think I would spend more and go with the marvellous Reserva or Gran Reserva next time.

Woodbridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

2008-12-04T12:20:00.003Z

Name: Woodbridge Cabernet Sauvignon
Colour: Red
Country: USA
Region: Napa Valley
Year: 2005
Producer: Woodbridge Winery by Robert Mondavi
Grape Varieties: 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, complementary varieties incl. Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot

Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 28.00 (restaurant)

Notes:
Maker’s notes – Lush aromas and velvety texture envelop vibrant dark fruit flavors. Briary blackberry character mingles with complex violet, cola and spices nuances. Smooth, elegant style.

Somnambulist's verdict: Reminded me of cherry tarts for some reason. Which is weird as I don't really eat cherry tarts. Throw in a pepper edge on the nose, some black cherries and a fair bit of acidity. Easy drinking, and not much in the way of complexity. Wouldn't search it out...

Marchese Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva 2003

2008-11-27T06:00:00.000Z

Name: Marchese Antinori Riserva

Colour: Red

Country: Italy

Region: Chianti Classico

Year: 2003

Producer: Antinori

Grape Varieties: 90% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and selected others

Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 47.99 (posh restaurant)

Notes:

Maker’s notes – Intense ruby red colour with light garnet hues. Vibrant aromas of citrus marmalade, dried fruit and sultanas. Full-bodied, solidly structured lingering palate with a pleasantly tannic finish. Hints of liquorice in the aftertaste.

Somnambulist's verdict: Super-smooth with rich fruits that somehow captured that scorching '03 Tuscan summer in a glass. Brilliant. A real heavyweight that needs meaty foods or cheese (in my case a wonderful veal lasagne!).

Esterhazy Pinot Noir Cuvee Reserve

2008-11-26T06:00:00.000Z

Name: Pinot Noir Cuvee Reserve
Colour: Red
Country: Austria
Region: Neusiedlersee Huegelland
Year: ? (I'm assuming a blend of different vintages but nothing on the website)
Producer: Weingut Esterhazy
Grape Varieties: Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 13.5%
.
Purchase Price: EUR 5.99
.
Notes:
.
Maker’s notes – The noble red with history. Dainty, delicate berry fruit, smooth texture, elegant tannins, concentrated and lingering.
.
Somnambulist's verdict: I'm learning that they can make some pretty decent pinot noirs up in the mountains but most of the time you have to go to the Alps to try them, since most wines are consumed locally. While perhaps a little one-dimensional this had lots of fruit and was very quaffable and good value. I've had a lot worse for a lot more money...

La Cuvee Mythique 2005

2008-11-25T06:00:00.000Z

Name: La Cuvee Mythique

Colour: Red

Country: France

Region: Vin de Pays d'Oc

Year: 2005

Producer: Vignerons du Val d'Orbieu

Grape Varieties: Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache Noir, Old Carignan

Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 5.99

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes: A lovely intense crimson colour with purplish tints. The bouquet reveals black cherry scents mingling with slight hints of cocoa, leading into roasted chestnut aromas after swirling around the glass. The sensation on the palate is long-lasting and rounded with plenty of flesh. The tanins are intense, yet nice and ripe, while spice and plum flavours charm the taste buds in the finish.

Somnambulist's verdict: Ridiculously good value for money. Serve this at a dinner party with red meat and spices (in our case a home-made Vindaloo :-) and I guarantee that guests will think you are spoiling them. It's rich, smooth, well-rounded with gorgeous flavours (I definitely got the cherry / cocoa / chestnut hints). This great find goes on the Somnambulist regular purchase list!

Gran Condal Reserva 2003

2008-11-22T08:37:00.011Z

Name: Gran Condal Reserva

Colour: Red

Country: Spain

Region: Rioja

Year: 2003

Producer: Bodegas Rioja Santiago, S.A.

Grape Varieties: Tempranillo, Garnacha

Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: EUR 8.99

Notes:

Maker’s notes – A red wine with an intense ruby red colour, deep aroma, round and velvety on the palate. Full and balanced aftertaste. Very select. The wine is aged for more than three years, at least one of which is spent in American oak barrels.

Somnambulist's verdict: Not a bad regular drinking wine, but I didn't find it as 'round and velvety' as the maker claims (a bit edgy if not given a bit of time to breathe). Misses the smooth yet complex combo of my favourite Rioja's.

Sangre de Toro 2006

2008-11-21T06:00:00.002Z

Name: Sangre de Toro
Colour: Red
Country: Spain
Region: Catalunya
Year: 2006
Producer: Miguel Torres, S.A.
Grape Varieties: Carinena, Garnacha Tinta
Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 6.49

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes: Deep ruby colour with a hint of ochre. Rich complex Mediterranean aromas with exuberant notes of spices and blackberries. Velvety tannins are noted on the palate with elegant flavours of liquorice and small dark forest fruits (blueberries and blackcurrants).

Somnambulist's verdict: This bottle came with a plastic bull attached, which should have served as a warning. Lesson learned. I would go more for the sour cherries, than "small, dark forest fruits." With the amount of alcohol in it, the opening glass is like liquid... err.. petroleum gas mixed with a bowl of black pepper. Probably ok with food, but you can get a decent Rioja for the same price and they are lightyears apart.

Knipser Cuvee X 2003

2008-11-21T06:00:00.001Z

Name: Cuvee X
Colour: Red
Country: Germany
Region: Pfalz
Year: 2003
Producer: Weingut Knipser
Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet France, Merlot
Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: ca. EUR 38.00

Notes:

Maker’s notes – Very herbal aromas from black currant, tobacco, coffee and cedar.

Somnambulist's verdict: Complex, velvety smooth, a fabulous winter red. I have not found many German reds that I like but this is spectacular.

Quinta do Ameal Escolha 2004

2008-11-20T06:00:00.002Z

Name: Quinta do Ameal - Escolha
Colour: White
Country: Portugal
Region: Minho - Ponte do Lima
Year: 2004
Producer: Pedro Araujo
Grape Varieties: Loureiro
Alcohol: 11.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 51.00 (Intercontinental Hotel)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes - Clear and citrus coloured. Floral aromas, orange-tree blossom. Its full fruitiness blends harmoniously with the vanilla and smoky tones, which are the result of ageing in new Nevers French oak. Its exceptional body and intensity is due to the selection of grapes whilst at an excellent stage of maturation, as well as its subsequent fermentation and ageing, with "bâtonnage", for 6 months in French oak barrels that have been especially selected for the Loureiro grape variety. Extremely delicate wooden notes, without interfere on the fruit and floral explosion characteristic. It has a very good length, with a complexity befitting a great wine. We suggest that it is decanted one hour before serving.

Somnambulist's verdict: The notes above nail it, although perhaps not as floral as the description suggests. The light alcohol content doesn't detract at all, in fact think it stacks up against some very good, heavier Burgundies. Absolutely gorgeous, highly recommended.

"Les Baudrieres" Pouilly-Fume 2006

2008-11-18T06:00:00.000Z

Name: Les Baudrieres
Colour: White
Country: France
Region: Pouilly-Fume
Year: 2006
Producer: Dominique Baud
Grape Varieties: Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol: 12.5%

Purchase Price: EUR 9.99

Notes:

Struggled to find much information on this wine or the producer. References seem to be largely from German sites so that is probably the main market. Will update if we come across anything else.

Somnambulist's verdict: A very pleasant, drinkable Sauvignon Blanc, if a little uninspiring. Smooth, quiet and lemony, with a touch of citrus acidity. Wouldn't pay up for it.

Chateau d'Angludet 2001

2008-11-13T06:00:00.000Z

Name: Chateau d’Angludet

Colour: Red

Country: France

Region: Margaux

Year: 2001

Producer: Maison Sichel

Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot

Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: ?

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes - Very deep red colour, shot through with purple tints. Ripe fruit on the nose but incredible finesse and complexity. Same characteristics on the palate, dense, silky and elegant, with rich, ripe tannin structure.

Somnambulist's verdict: Not cheap but if you are going to splash out on a Margaux this is luxury in a glass. Advise decanting and allowing to breathe for at least an hour. Gorgeous.

Vina Albali Gran Reserva 2001

2008-11-12T06:00:00.003Z

Name: Vina Albali Gran Reserva

Colour: Red

Country: Spain

Region: Valdepenas

Year: 2001

Producer: Felix Solis

Grape Varieties: Tempranillo

Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: ca. EUR 8

(update 28/4/09 - Asda is offering this at £5 - great value!)

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – Deep ruby-red in colour with amber tones this wine has complex aromas of dignified wood, vanilla and red fruit. Dry and warm on the palate, the Gran Reserve maintains perfect tannic balance and a pleasant bouquet.

Awards: Viña Albali Gran Reserva 2001

-Wine Style Asia Award. Singapore 2008. Bronze medal

-AWC Vienna 2008. Silver medal

-Magazine “Weinwirtschaft 01 – 2008”, 3rd Best International Brand.

-Wine and Spirit Asia Challenge 2008. Singapore. Bronze Medal

-International Wine and Spirit Competition 2008. United Kingdom. Silver Medal

Somnambulist's verdict: Great with tapas or spicy food.

Buzbag Rezerv 2004

2008-11-11T14:17:00.002Z

Name: Buzbag Rezerv
Colour: Red
Country: Turkey
Region: Elazig
Year: 2004
Producer: Kayra
Grape Varieties: Bogazkere
Alcohol: 13.5%

Purchase Price: ?

Notes:

Elazig is in the South Eastern part of Anatolia. Pronounced B’z-bah.

Somnambulist's verdict: Bought as a gift, came locally recommended and didn’t disappoint. Lots of fruit and spice. A real treat!

Vina Sol 2007

2008-11-10T13:20:00.001Z

Name: Vina Sol
Colour: White
Country: Spain
Region: Catalunya
Year: 2007
Producer: Miguel Torres, S.A.
Grape Varieties: Parellada
Alcohol: 11.5%

Purchase Price: ca. EUR 6.00

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – Elegant, fresh, fruity aromas with fine spicy hints. Smooth, rich and crisp on the palate, with plenty of fruity flavours (apples and pineapples) and a touch of spice (fennel).

Somnambulist's verdict: Good every day drinking, alone or with light food. Simple but effective.

Billecart-Salmon Brut Rose N.V.

2008-11-10T12:57:00.003Z

Name: Brut Rose
Colour: Rose
Country: France
Region: Champagne
Year: NV
Producer: Billecart-Salmon
Grape Varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 12%

Purchase Price: ca. EUR 35.00

Notes:

Maker's tasting notes – Its pale pink colour is adorned with warm glints of gold, and its delicate, slowly rising bubbles give it a persistent mousse. This cuvee unveils a subtle aroma leading to an elegant, delicate bouquet of fine notes of red fruits. A light elegant style, followed by a fresh finish.

Somnambulist's verdict: Probably my favourite Champagne. Frivolous, decadent, awesome.

Fabelhaft 2006

2008-11-10T12:45:00.000Z

Name: Fablehaft
Colour: Red
Country: Portugal
Region: Douro
Year: 2006
Producer: Niepoort Vinhos SA
Grape Varieties: Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Amarela, Tinta Barroca, Tinto Cao
Alcohol: 13%

Purchase Price: EUR 12.00

Notes: Produced for the German speaking markets, "Fabelhaft" translates as fabulous, phenomenal or scrumptious.

Maker's tasting notes - It is a dark ruby wine with an intense dark and red fruit aroma with spicy character. On palate it is young, appealing and fresh, with fruity tannins, good acidity and appealing structure.

Somnambulist's verdict: Fabulous is about right. Fruity, complex but very quaffable. Tremendous value for money.