2012 Pittacum
The 2012 Pittacum is a magnificent representation of the distinct terroir of Bierzo. Its great concentration is evident in the deep garnet hue it exhibits in the glass. It begins with a seductive aroma of luscious red fruits, such as raspberries and cherries, mingled with faint hints of violet, earthy minerals, and a hint of spice from well-integrated oak.
The wine has a rich, well-balanced mouthfeel, with smooth tannins and a sharp acidity that gives a welcome burst of refreshment. Hints of tobacco, cedar, and a hint of black pepper balance the flavours of plum, blackcurrant, and dark fruit compote. Long and gratifying, the aftertaste lingers with a soft, earthy minerality and a hint of sweet fruit. 93 corked Points
2007 Chablis Grand Cru La Reserve de l’ Obedience Domaine Laroche
One of the best Chablis wines is the Domaine Laroche 2007 Chablis Grand Cru La Réserve de l’Obédience. Its delicate gold hue in the glass, with a hint of green, conveys its freshness and vitality. The nose is striking from the start, with a rich bouquet of ripe pear, green apple, and citrus blooms supported by flinty minerality and faint notes of honey and white flowers.
This wine has a beautiful interplay between its crisp acidity and rich, creamy texture on the palate, demonstrating its remarkable balance. Tasting notes of wet stone, toasted almonds, and a faint hint of vanilla from oak ageing combine to create a wonderfully balanced blend of flavours that include lemon zest, green plum, and white peach.
Refreshing citrus lift and a persistent touch of saline minerality are left behind by the exceptionally long and precise finish.
The purity and refinement characteristic of Domaine Laroche’s best cuvées are embodied in this Chablis Grand Cru, which has extraordinary depth and grace. Although it is drinking nicely right now, more cellaring will allow the structure to develop even more complexity. 91 corked Points
2011 Latricieres Chambertin Grand Cru Domaine Rosignol-Trapet
A superb representation of Burgundy’s legendary terroir is found in Domaine Rossignol-Trapet’s 2011 Latricières-Chambertin Grand Cru. It displays a stunning ruby hue with garnet undertones in the glass. A complex fragrance of red cherries, blackcurrants, and wild strawberries mingled with earthy undertones, touches of woodland floor, and delicate floral notes of violets is offered by the inviting nose.
The wine has a lively acidity that provides a welcome lift, along with fine-grained tannins and an exquisite, well-structured palate. Rich red berry and black plum flavours are accentuated with hints of truffle, soft oak, and layers of spice. The wine gains depth and a distinct sense of place from the prominent minerality.
With hints of savoury spice and lingering aromas of red fruit, the finish is lengthy and elegant. With more age, this Grand Cru promises to continue evolving and becoming more sophisticated. It is the epitome of balance and elegance. 94 corked Points
2011 Alter Ego (Chateau Palmer)
A sophisticated and expressive Margaux, the 2011 Alter Ego de Palmer. It appears rich crimson with purple undertones in the glass. Blackberries, cassis, and plums are among the flavours that fill the nose, which is also little tobacco-like, cedar-like, and slightly graphite-scented.
The wine has a vibrant acidity, silky tannins, and a medium to full body on the palate. Rich dark fruit flavours, like those of blackcurrant and black cherry, blend with undertones of earthiness, vanilla, and cocoa. Because the oak is well-integrated, the fruit is not overpowered and the mouthfeel is smooth and creamy.
A dash of spice and lingering aromas of black fruit characterise the lengthy and exquisite finish. While it is drinking nicely now, this vintage of Alter Ego de Palmer has the delicacy and balance that characterise the Margaux appellation. It also has the potential to age well. 92 corked Points
2000 Vega Sicilia Unico
The 2000 Vega Sicilia Unico is a legendary wine that epitomizes the essence of Ribera del Duero. In the glass, it displays a deep garnet color with a hint of brick red at the rim, showcasing its maturity and complexity.
On the nose, this wine is profound and multifaceted, offering aromas of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and plums, intertwined with hints of cedar, tobacco, leather, and exotic spices. The bouquet evolves in the glass, revealing nuances of dried herbs, graphite, and a touch of earthy minerality.
The taste is equally striking, with layers of rich, intense fruit flavours that cover the mouth in a velvety, full-bodied mouthfeel. Extended oak ageing yields notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and sweet vanilla that blend with flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry compote, and figs. Rich and well-integrated, the tannins give the wine’s luxurious character structure and stability.
A whiff of tobacco leaf, spice, and black fruit all remain in the incredibly long and persistent aftertaste. A masterwork of Spanish winemaking, the 2000 Vega Sicilia Unico has perfect balance, depth, and ageing potential. It continues to set the standard for what a really great wine can do. 95 corked Points
