Truchard Vineyard 2008 Syrah - 88pts

Truchard Vineyard 2008 Syrah (Careros) Napa Valley - California
Availability: BCLDB Stores
Cost: $24.99
Alcohol: 14.2%
Date Tasted: January 24th, 2012

Tasting Notes: An interesting cross between a full bodied and jammy Australian Shiraz with a more herbal, mineral and oaky Rhone Valley Syrah. Not the most pleasant of bedfellows but the wine does come together in the end with a fairly concentrated expression of the dually named variety. Tannins are fine and surprisingly mild yet the colour, a deep violet-ruby, remains as intense as ever. A pleasant wine to pair with BBQ beef or dark chocolate. Drink now-2013.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2012 IconWines.ca

Flora Springs Winery 2005 Trilogy - 92pts

Flora Springs Winery 2005 Trilogy (Napa Valley) California - USA

Availability: Private wine stores
Cost: $50-70
Alcohol: 14.2%
Date Tasted: January 8th, 2010

Tasting Notes: From the cellar. At seven years of age this Meritage blend from Napa Valley's Flora Springs has really come into its own. The enchanting bouquet has developed a smoke-laced blend of mixed berries, charred cedar, vanilla, white chocolate, pepper and savoury spices. The concentrated, dry palate follows with amble acidity, mellowed fine tannins and a lovely perception of sweetness from intense, ripe red and black fruit flavours. The finish is moderate but very well balanced with lingering blackberry and cassis fruit and a hint of oak. Be sure to decant prior to serving and avoid the sizeable deposits. Drink now-2015+
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2012 IconWines.ca

Columbia Crest Winery 2009 Two Vines Cabernet Sauvignon - 86pts

Columbia Crest Winery 2009 Two Vines Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley) Washington State

Availability: BCLDB Stores
Cost: $14.99
Alcohol: 13.5%
Date Tasted: January 18th, 2012

Tasting Notes: Warm, inviting, ripe dark fruit and cherry-cola aromas greet you on the nose of this Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington State. A touch of sweetness is present both on the nose and palate which makes for a very easy-going drinking experience. The balance is a tad sharp to off-set the residual sugar and plum flavours. The finish is surprisingly lengthy for such a well-priced wine. An excellent option for dinner parties due to its mass appeal and food friendliness. Drink now-2013.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2012 IconWines.ca

Long Shadows Vintners Collection 2006 Pedestal - 92pts

Long Shadows Vintners Collection 2006 Pedestal (Walla Walla) Columbia Valley - Washington State

Availability: BCLDB Signature stores
Cost: $80
Alcohol: 14.7%
Date Tasted: January 14th, 2012

Tasting Notes: This is a world class Merlot produced under the direction of Michel Rolland from Columbia Valley fruit offering intense dark berry, smoky cigar box, cedar chip, vanilla bean, prune juice and savoury spice characters on the intriguing nose and uber-smooth palate. Fine tannins and well-balanced acid add structure and a refined finish with lingering spice stays with you through to your next sip. Still developing, the wine won't peak for another 2 years yet the youthful presentation is well worth enjoying now. Drink Now-2016+.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2012 IconWines.ca

Long Shadows Vintners Collection 2005 Sequel - 93pts

Long Shadows Vintners Collection 2005 Sequel (Walla Walla) Columbia Valley - Washington State

Availability: BCLDB Signature stores
Cost: $80
Alcohol: 14.7%
Date Tasted: January 14th, 2012

Tasting Notes: From the cellar. This stunning Syrah from the 2005 vintage is still tasting fresh and youthful. Intense, dense cherry liqueur aromas mingle with hints of french oak and cinnamon creating a gorgeous, sweet and light spice developing bouquet. The intensity and concentration continues through to the dry palate. The entry is fruity with licorice, oak and mineral notes which transitions to a serious, terroir-driven expression of the Rhone varietal. Has the tannins, acidity and pedigree to last another 3-4 years. Drink Now-2015+.
 - Liam Carrier ©copyright 2012 IconWines.ca