Tasting Notes 12/2/11

Inspired by the TV version of “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer”

BROKENWOOD SEMILLON 2010

Like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, this wine may be different, but it’s no nitwit and no misfit.  Mineral driven aromas of lemon zest, talc and spearmint lead to a taut but juicy palate, with citrus, green apple, and strong minerality.  Melon and pear notes arise on the dry, persistent finish.  Show up with some of this and they may let you play reindeer games after all, in spite of your glowing nose.  94 points James Halliday.  $17.97.

DOMAINE CHANDON PINOT NOIR 2007

When a cute little doe bats her eyes at you, you can stoke that fire with a glass or two of this lovely Pinot.  Delicate aromas of lavender, juniper and cherry with subtle spice and sage notes will tantalize her, as will rich flavors of boysenberry, raspberry and cherry.  90 points Wine Spectator.  $19.97.

LEASINGHAM BIN 61 SHIRAZ 2005

Whether you’re Rudolph or an elf who wants to be a dentist, you can find solace in Shiraz.  This is as focused, juicy and lithe as a reindeer in flight, with “blackberry, plum and sweet spice flavors that persist with some refinement into the lively finish.”  91 points Wine Spectator.  $9.97.

ZUCCARDI SERIE A BONARDA 2009

If you ever get lost on the Island of Misfit Toys, console yourself with some of this lovely Argentinian red.  It’s “deep, compact and rich on the nose, with a big dose of ripe berry aromas.  The palate is healthy and blends a beefy, muscular body with balancing acids and firm but ripe tannins.  Tastes pretty and sweet, like blackberry or plum pie.  Chewy and chocolaty on the finish.”  90 points Wine Enthusiast.  $12.97.

EMILIO MORO RIBERA DEL DUERO 2007

Being held captive in the Bumble Snowman’s cave will sure put a damper on your holidays.  I bet you could trade a bottle of this for your freedom, though.  It’s beautifully dense and concentrated, with aromas and flavors of cedar, asian spices, leather, incense, black cherry and blackberry.  Excellent mouthfeel and length on the finish.  91 points Wine Advocate.  $21.97.

KOYLE ROYALE CABERNET 2007

After a tough session of elf practice, a bottle of this would be a great way to relax.  It’s dark, deep, piercing and perfumed, with fine tobacco and berry fruit aromas and flavors.  The oak is judiciously applied, the fruit intense and pure.  The tannins are as strong as you’ll need to be to build all those toys for all the children of the world.  92 points Wine Enthusiast.  $18.97.

HIDDEN RIDGE CABERNET 2006

When the storm blows in and Christmas is about to be cancelled, get out in front of the sleigh with your glowing nose.  And if it’s not glowing enough, hit a bottle of this gem from atop the Mayacamas Mountains.  Complex cassis, bramble, tea and tobacco notes are buoyed by rich and dense blackberry, dark cherry, and black plum flavors.  On the finish you may also notice chocolate, mocha, anise and a hint of mint carried on velvety tannins.  93 points Anthony Dias Blue.  $34.97.