September 19, 2013
NYC Wine Tasting Group, Wine Dinner with Good Friends
2011 Shibumi Knoll Chardonnay - I like to start with a white wine, and this one is always a favorite with our group. 2011 was a tough year, and this wine may be a little young still, but it is sure to please!
2003 Bodegas Muga Torre Muga Rioja - This wine got a 94 point rating from Wine Spectator which said, "This full-bodied red is powerful yet harmonious, with ripe, well-integrated tannins. The impressive structure carries finely etched flavors of cassis, black olive, mineral and licorice that need time to come to full expression. A modern style, but avoids international clichés."
2007 Nicolas Catena Zapata - A 92 point WS rating, this Argentine wine is, "Dense yet supple, with gorgeous blackberry, raspberry and plum skin notes revealing layers of wild sage, cured olive, espresso and spice. Harmonious, with fine tannins adding grip, as the fruit sails on the mocha-tinged finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot."
2004 Leoville Barton - This Bordeaux is always a favorite with our group. The '04 got a 91 point rating from Wine Spectator, but quite a bit higher from NYC Wine Tasting Group! The WS tasting notes said it had, "Currant and dark chocolate, with hints of mineral. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. Balanced. A more delicate and refined style."