Raventós i Blanc Conca del Riu Anoia Barcelona de Nit 2011
One of the more serious Cava’s I’ve had the pleasure of tasting. In part, due to calcareous soils and a long, long tenure of the land. Raventós estate vineyards have been tended by the same family since the late 1400s. Aside from the gorgeous pink hue and lively bubbles, the nose is pure fruit. Wild […]
Ameztoi Getariako Txakolina Hijo de Rubentis Rosé 2014
Always a favorite, the Ameztoi Rubentis Getariako Rosé 2014 is a slightly effervescent, refreshing, classic Txakolina pink. Made from 150 year-old indigenous Hondarribi Zuri and Hondarribi Beltza grapes, it displays fresh, vibrant notes of pie cherries, hibiscus, and turbinado sugar. In the mouth, tart red fruit takes a back seat to minerality—oyster shells, sea foam, […]
Krug Grand Cuveé NV — ID 212026
ID 212026 Multi-dimensional, layered and wonderfully complex. I have been tasting this over the course of the afternoon, in an attempt to fully appreciate this masterpiece from every angle. Opens with classic brioche notes, d’Anjou pear, wild clover honey, crystalline ginger. On the palate, it’s all finesse and power. Candied orange peel, almond biscotti and […]
Krug Grande Cuvée NV — ID 411048
This bottle’s ID number differs from the first bottle of Krug Grande Cuvée I wrote about in late spring of this year (see Krug ID 212026). Indeed, this bottle reveals perhaps slightly more richness on the nose with more emphasis on brioche, wonderfully sweet pastry notes leaning toward caramel and marzipan, with subtle orchard fruit […]
Bérêche et Fils Champagne Milléime Vieilles Sélectionnées 2005
Bérêche et Fils has become a favorite grower Champagne of mine, thanks to a generous friend who always seems to have it on hand, the 2005 Brut Milléime Vieilles Sélectionnées is no exception. I’m always impressed by the depth and complexity Bérêche possesses—the nose is quite lush with brioche notes, orchard fruits, dried pineapple, candied orange […]
Bérêche et Fils Champagne Les Beaux Regards NV
Bérêche et Fils Champagne Les Beaux Regards NV is finely crafted, as are all of their Champagnes. 100% Chardonnay is redolent with brioche notes and orchard fruit. On the palate, a fine mousse, minerality and orange peel and coriander. Nice creaminess on the finish. Zero dosage. Maison Bérêche et Fils 9.1 Points