1 | Wine | Page 388

"Well-defined and balanced, this shows clean notes of star fruit, melon rind, smoke and orange peel, with a thread of mineral salinity. Structured without being overpowering, this is dry and tangy, and would be a fine match for light seafood."

"The 2008 Yquem, now in bottle, has a nuanced bouquet, with scents of clear honey, lime flower, vanilla and orange blossom that is beautifully defined. The palate is very harmonious on the entry, with a fine thread of acidity, tense and full of energy like the 2010 tasted alongside, with notes of white peach, citrus lemon, clear honey and a hint of quince. Long and persistent on the finish, this is a very fine Yquem that might be over-looked between the 2007 and 2009, but is a superb Sauternes in its own right."

"Evinces the pear and mint that have always been signatures for this bottling. A lush, luscious, fruit-forward and satisfyingly lees-enriched, silken palate is also typical, but here there is more vivacity and cut than in the corresponding Pierrier cuvee, with pear skin and pip helping serve for finishing invigoration."

"A bright and vibrant wine, pale straw in colour with slight green hues at its edge. The aroma is fresh and fragrant with the gentle influence of passionfruit and gooseberry. Dry to taste, this wine is elegantly presented with subtle passionfruit, floral and lime flavours on a lively and poised palate. Very finely textured and concentrated with crisp acidity. The flavours flow to a dry finish with good length. This is an elegant and ethereal Sauvignon Blanc with a lively and refined palate."

"This red is smooth, round and focused, delivering a juicy mouthful of blackberry, currant and spice flavors, with a hint of mint chiming in as the finish lingers enticingly."

"The 2008 La Confession is a sleeper of the vintage. Super successful, this spicy wine exhibits some toasty oak and loads of licorice, espresso roast, blackberry and cassis. A blend of 66% Merlot and 34% Cabernet Franc, it hit 13.8% natural alcohol. The purity, the texture, and the multi-layered mouthfeel all are impressive and make this wine very drinkable now but capable of lasting for at least another 12-15 years." Reviewed by Robert Parker.

"The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino is a serious, intense Brunello. Wild cherries, herbs, tobacco, spices and worn-in leather are some of the aromas and flavors that flow from this wiry, structured wine. This shows plenty of length on the palate, although the tannins dry out a touch on the finish."