Tasting Notes 6/14/13

NCWC LONG SHADOWS EVENT 6/14/13

POET’S LEAP RIESLING 2011
Inspired by the greatest wines of Germany and crafted by one of that country’s most highly acclaimed Riesling producers, Armin Diel, this is “sinewy and elegant, with a tangy citrus scent and a hint of peppercorn. It feels finely knit and pure. The flavors lengthen after a day open and bring to bear a juicy, mouthwatering briskness, with a minerality that suggests a long, thrilling life in the cellar.” 93 points Wine & Spirits. $19.97

PEDESTAL MERLOT 2008
“The 2008 Pedestal Merlot is fashioned by the peripatetic Michel Rolland. Made up of 81% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it reveals a nose of cedar, Asian spices, incense, cassis, and black currant. Structured and savory on the palate with spicy black fruit flavors, it has the balance to evolve gracefully for 2-3 years and will offer prime drinking from 2013 to 2023.” 93 points Wine Advocate. $49.97

FEATHER CABERNET 2008
“Randy Dunn’s Feather has an intriguing floral component, and the aromas are complex and intense, though the wine is wound up tight. Let it breathe and it delivers elegant, focused flavors, precisely defined berry and cassis fruit, with a long and harmonious finish.” 94 points Wine Enthusiast. $49.97

PIROUETTE 2009
“A four-grape, Bordeaux-style blend made by Philippe Melka and Agustin Huneeus, this packs 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 3% Malbec. Refined and elegant, it is precisely structured, with a firm herbal attack and a perfect blend of berry and cassis flavors. It’s dense, deep and compact, suggesting long aging ahead. Cellar Selection.” 95 points Wine Enthusiast. $46.97

CHESTER KIDDER 2008
Winemaker Gilles Nicault crafted this blend of Cab, Syrah, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. “The expressive nose offers currant, cherry cola, graphite and dark chocolate. Silky, sexy and intense, with firm, vibrant Cabernet fruit complicated by licorice and spices. Finishes lively and very long, with sweet tannins and solid structure from the Cabernet, some of which spent up to 40 days on its skins.” 92 points Stephen Tanzer. $46.97

SEQUEL SYRAH 2009
This is a “pure Syrah, whose cuvee name was chosen as an allusion to winemaker John Duval’s legacy as long-time winemaker for Penfolds and its legendary Grange. Chocolate, mocha and brown spice elements are prominent already in the nose. The expansive, plush palate displays dark berry juiciness along with hints of mint, black pepper, smoky black tea, and iodine to take this wine in a properly profound direction and offer counterpoint to its sense of sweetness. What’s more, there is a lovely sense of lift and energy to the finish.” 93 points Wine Advocate. $46.97