Tasting note: ‘Black Label Pinotage’, Kanonkop Wine Estate, 2020

Comments = Concentration, precision and finesse are the key words for this wine. The tannins are silky and blend perfectly into the fruit aromas (black plum). The finish is complex and persistent with well-integrated oak nuances (cloves, vanilla), all enhanced by spicy notes. A very fine wine from one of the oldest and most prestigious vineyards in South Africa. This is probably one of the finest Pinotages I have tasted.

Final Grade = A

Tasting note: Clos Henri, Pinot Noir, 2017

Comments = I really like the price-quality ratio offered by this wine. A bright acidity, a complex palate and a long finish. A prime example of what a very very good Pinot Noir from New-Zealand can be. All this at a very affordable price given its great quality. I really advice you to try it (especially if you never had any New Zealand’s Pinot Noir in the past).

Final Grade = A-

Tasting note: ‘Barca-Velha’, Casa Ferreirinha, 2011

Comments = A true legend! Totally lives up to its reputation! This wine still displays a vibrant acidity (despite being from 2011) together with a powerful tannic structure. However, its balance aromas-acidity-tannins is exceptional and its finish is long, persistant and complex centered around aromas of dark fruits, tobacco and hints of cedar. This wine is very rare because it has only been produced in 20 exceptional vintages since 1952 (and in limited quantity each time). Therefore, if you have a chance to get your hand on one bottle, you will be among the lucky few who can enjoy this true portuguese treasure.

Final Grade = A++

Tasting note: DOMAINE DE TREVALLON, Rouge, 2020

Comments = A red wine of great gastronomy that skilfully combines finesse and power to achieve breathtaking precision on the palate. The tannins although present know how to be forgotten to allow to appreciate beautiful aromas of black fruits and beautiful spicy notes. A long and complex finish that smells of the South, Provence and the local scrubland.

Final Grade = A

Tasting note: ‘Aurel’, Domaine les Aurelles, 2017

Comments = a very beautiful wine from my region of origin which knows how to express the full potential of Mourvèdre in this unique terroir of the Pézénas region which mixes gravel, sand and basaltic soil together with light maritime breezes. A good presence in the mouth with a good acidity-aroma balance. Silky and slightly velvety tannins go perfectly with aromas of black fruits centered around blackberry and a lengthy finish. It is without any doubt among the greatest wines of the region.

Final Grade = A

Tasting note: Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva, Giuseppe Quintarelli, 2011

Comments = Stunning! The 2011 vintage is a mythical “riserva” from Quintarelli, it is one of the most sought after Valpolicella vintages of the 2010s from this producer. Its aromas have evolved to become more tertiary and be centered on chocolate, cocoa and liquorice. With this wine, we are in the perfection of what man and nature can produce. This wine is undoubtedly a very good financial investment as well as a real treat for connoisseurs.

Final Grade = A++

Tasting note: “Monte Lodoletta”, Amarone della Valpolicella, Dal Forno Romano, 2010

Comments = This wine is a marvel, one of the top vintages from this iconic producer. Its aromas have evolved to become more tertiary and be centered on chocolate, cocoa and liquorice. Complexity, intensity, elegance, sumptuous finish, it’s all there. This wine is close to perfection and has an incredibly interesting aging potential. It is a good investment as wine lovers are seeking this vintage.

Final Grade = A+

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