Montes Alpha 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon - 90+pts

Montes Alpha 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (Colchagua Valley) Chile

Availability:  BCLDB 
Cost:  $26.90
Alcohol:  14.0% 
Date Tasted:  June,  2010

Tasting Notes:  The Montes name is the Chilean standard in wine these days.  They present classic labels and their flight top to bottom is hard to beat anywhere in the world.  The prices Canadians pay make them accessible and wines of tremendous value.

A gorgeous Cabernet.  The appearance was dark ruby and almost opaque. A massive nose with aromas of mocha, cassis, and violets.  The taste is dry with high tannins and very concentrated.  Mocha and expresso come through as well as typical cassis.  Full bodied and smooth as silk.  This is wine is drinking young but drinking well.  Some juicy meats or sausages will cut through the tannins if you can't wait for the development this wine is sure to enjoy.  Drink through 2020.
- Hugh Carter

2006 Chateau Coutet - 91.75pts

2006 Chateau Coutet (Barsac) Bordeaux - France

Decanted: 2hrs

Cost: $48.90 - 370ml, $95.90 - 750ml

Date Tasted: September 13th, 2009

Tasting Notes: A light gold colour, the core to rim differential shows little development thus far. Candied fruit and pralines on the nose with delicate fruit flavours drenched in full-bodied sweetness. Shows promise but needs further development to build more complexity on the palate.

Scores: 92 WA, 91 ST, 94 WS, 90+ IW, Average: 91.75