Chateau Moulin Bellegrave 2006

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.

Chateau Mas Del Perie 2006

Name: Chateau Mas Del Perie

Colour: Red

Country: France

Region: Cahors

Year: 2006

Producer: Marie-Rose Ortalo

Grape Varieties: 100% Malbec

Alcohol: 12.5%

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Purchase Price: EUR 4.00 (supermarket, France)
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Notes:
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Maker’s tasting notes – Deep red with purple reflections. Nose very fruity, with a little spicy red fruits. Subtle and balanced with strong tannins.
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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.

Woodbridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

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...