Alpha Domus 2007

Even though I don't fancy merlots generally, this blend has enough cab and franc on board to keep it honest--still, not peppery and no tannins to speak of. Very smooth, subdued berry NOS. Not bad at all for 25$ and likely to pair amiably with a large variety of foods.

2007 Mission Estate Late Harvest Semillon

Strong gum eraser nose (really), lush golden color and honey-sweetness balanced from opening to finish. I don't like it as well as the Stables 2010 sticky (varietal?), which is magic, but a worthy effort.

2007 Ripassa valpolicella superiere

Date tasted: August, 2011

Where: MPLS

Notes: A gift from Ron and Kelley's cellar, this wine was my introduction to a blend of Italian vareitals (and techniques) that I will certainly want to try more of if this wine is typical. The re-pressing ('ripasso') produces a concentrated flavor similar to the 'amarone' technique of waiting to press until the grape has been picked and partially dried.

Dense in both color and body, this is a red-meat wine all the way. Very long and lush--heft reminiscent of a good port but without the stickiness and possessing more tannins. Should I be so lucky to encounter it again, I will pair it with closer attention and a proper meal.

2007 Road 13 Fifth Element

Date tasted: 9 May, 2011

Where: purchased Vancouver, BC (tasted in Mpls)

Price: $$

Notes: a Bordeaux-style blend of 58% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cab Franc. Top of the line blend from this South Okanagan Valley vintner. Nice tannins and oak (s?), as well as notes of leather and tobacco, all finely enough balanced to drink now, but likely to age well, too. Paired with home cooked round tip steak (to which it was added as part of a jerk, herbs de provence and au jus reduction), followed by prosciutto-wrapped dates stuffed with fromage bleu and thick cut uncured bacon. This is a serious effort, to be paired with red meat.