This is just absurdly good for the price. Blackberry, mulberry, and black cherry all float above a cloud of cigar smoke and tar. There is also a tremendous mineral streak of molten rock. Tannins are taught but smooth. Drink with-read more-
Just recently had the '06 Doyenne Syrah and thought it was great. In comparison to the AIX, this one is just a touch more drinkable, mostly because of the increased acidity. Again, a big Syrah from Doyenne, with broad mouthfeel-read more-
This moderately priced Rhône blend spent 14 months in a blend of French and European oak, and it shows. There is plenty of cherry and a little rhubarb, but the wood is slathered all over the fruit, overwhelming it. Sweet-read more-
Intensely floral, this makes a wine lasagna with lavender and rose petals noodles between layers of elderberries, raspberries, lightly smoked pork, and leather. This practically begs to pair with meat, from sage-rubbed pork roast to lamb with rosemary. At its-read more-
Flavors of blackcurrant and a tiny touch of mint are quickly overwhelmed by cherries from the merlot and wood from the winemaking. It is sweet, red fruits ultimately dominating, with spices from the wood, cinnamon and clove. This is one-read more-
This deeply opaque Syrah blend spent 30 months in very tightly grained new French oak. It is already terrific and has years ahead of it. Tannins are very sweet. Flavors comes in waves, with tremendous depth. Blackberries are the lead-read more-
Clear, medium ruby to garnet. Aromas of cherry, pepper, oak, cedar, spice, red fruit, currant, violet, vegetal. Dry, medium tannin, medium-high acid, medium-full body, cherry, strawberry, anise, soft oak. WHO: Bodegas Beronia WHAT: Tempranillo, Garnacha WHERE: Rioja, Spain WHEN: 2006-read more-
Clear, medium-light ruby color. Aromas of violet, floral, ripe cherry, and strawberry. Dry, medium acid, medium tannin, cherry, floral, soft oak, well balanced. WHO: Pagos del Rey WHAT: Tempranillo WHERE: Rioja, Spain WHEN: 2006 HOW MUCH: $12