2008 Penley Estate “Phoenix” Cabernet...
The color is inky dark with maroon edges. The nose is lightly jammy blackcurrant with a background of vanilla and eucalyptus. The palate is more harsh than the nose. Blackcurrant leads, along with some vegetal tobacco leaf as well a higher tones of mint and eucalyptus. It does not show a lot of development from attack through mid-palate to finish, ending with some brown sugar and vanilla from wood. At this price point it is very competitive with California cabernets, showing a more deft hand with wood flavors than is usually seen in the under-$15 crowd, as well as some acid to keep it food-friendly. Drink with a skirt steak. For the price, Recommended. DH
2008 Nipozzano Riserva Chianti Rufina...
Roses and cedar aromas, nice mouth-filling classic Chianti flavors on palate. Fruity but balanced. Nicely integrated tannins with fruit in a moderate finish. Drink with plain grilled meat. Recommended. BSE
Palate Press Wine of the Week: 2008 D...
Clear, bright, medium intensity straw yellow. Clean, medium-full intensity aromas: rich yeast roll and oak, caramel, toasted almonds, yellow apple, and Bosc pear. Dry on the palate with medium-full acidity, full bodied, and intense flavors. Yellow apple, pear, lightly toasted nuts, chalk, whte plum confiture, and candied lemon. Long finish. Pair with a creamy pasta dish, heavy on the tarragon and sage. Highly recommended. RR
2008 Domaine Drouhin Oregon Édition L...
Clear, bright, medium intensity straw yellow. Clean, medium-full intensity aromas: rich yeast roll and oak, caramel, toasted almonds, yellow apple, and Bosc pear. Dry on the palate with medium-full acidity, full bodied, and intense flavors. Yellow apple, pear, lightly toasted nuts, chalk, whte plum confiture, and candied lemon. Long finish. Pair with a creamy pasta dish, heavy on the tarragon and sage. Highly recommended. RR
2008 Azienda I Greppi Bolgheri Greppi...
This is still a very young wine, softening and adding layers hours after popping the cork. Decant this with lead time and enthusiastic splashing. Otherwise, it will disappoint when first opened, showing a tart to the point of puckering, tannic enough to make the mouth an arid desert. Three hours later, the cabernet aromas and flavors are shining through, with blackcurrant, black berry, leather, and a touch of tar, along with very pretty violet florals. It remains tight and high-toned after several hours of air. Save for at least another five years, though ten is recommended. Drink with a well-marbled ribeye steak. Highly Recommended. DH
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