Il Fiume Di Lava Sicilia Rosso 2007

After my man, Gary Vaynerchuk, raved about this wine, I had to grab a few bottles for myself. Filling my glass, the purplish-red liquid becomes darker toward the core. Remember that this varietal is a blending grape for Bordeaux's and used for deepening the color of the wine. Dipping my nose into the glass reveals an undoubtedly, perfume-like aroma of red licorice, lavender, flower petals, and a hint of graphite. A sudden rush of some of the aforementioned flavors (red licorice and lavender), as well as new, cover my palate. Flavors like, sour cherries, Mt. Etna minerality, and hints of oak excite my tastebuds. This i.G.T. is light weight with great acidity, giving perfect balance between the alcohol and tannins, with a long, savory finish. Drink/hold and enjoy this rare treat over the next 10 years. RH 93+

A look inside Talbot by Thunevin

Talbot

The 1st presentation of the wines of Chateau Talbot 2011 to Bordeaux merchants and brokers took place on Tuesday, March 13. Another good wine from Talbot considering the challenges of this vintage, in other words between average and good. Note that I find 2007 good while 2004 average. Lots of investments have been done to give this property the necessary tools, without over-doing it.

The picture of the cellar, which I found quite beautiful, doesn’t substitute the physical sensation and smells of new barrels, a prefect aging cellar.

Following, we tasted the 2011 from Château Fleur Cardinale, another good vintage, Secrets de Cardinale, Fleur Cardinale and a new cuvee called Croix de Cardinale. The 3 will be, I hope, the successes of the vintage. Tasting opened for everyone on April 2nd: an opportunity to check my statements!

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R Wines Boarding Pass 2005

Very soft entry, with little, to no mid-palate. Loads of dark fruit on the nose with grap being the stanout aroma. Nice acidity with a velvet texture that coats your mouth. The alcohol stands out a little too much and the oak is very prevalent on a lazy finish. Certainly hit its stride, so drink up! RH 88-