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"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."

"The deep, garnet hued Mettler 2010 Cabernet opens with delicate aromas of black cherry, rose petal and tobacco with a suggestion of mineral. Smooth and delicious on the palate, the mouth-filling flavors of black plum, cherry and vanilla are balanced by toasted spice and cedar. This wine exhibits a beautifully orchestrated balance of fruit, oak and tannin with a nice thread of acidity that carry the flavors through the clean finish. This is a Cabernet that is elegant and poised, with bold characteristics that would work with a variety of cuisines. Its solid core of flavors and deep complexity will see it through many years of aging."

"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."

"Dry and spicy, with flavors of dried cherry, wild strawberry and black raspberry. This is well-meshed, offering subtle, juicy acidity and a creamy finish."

"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."

"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.