Four bottles of fine wine, a holiday gift from my boss, were delivered by couier today. What a nice surprise. I decided to look them up on the internet before opening and I am glad I did. The Ascheri won't be at its best for a couple of years but is best decanted if served now. I think I will put it away. The other three are good now. . . and I will try one soon, very soon! I am sharing the tasting notes here.
Ascheri Podere di Rivalta di La Morra – Verduno, 2003 Barolo | Bra, Italy | Intense garnet red in colour, with the classic nose of violets and ripe fruits. It exhibits full bodied yet soft velvety concentrated fruit. Surprisingly approachable for just 4 years after the vintage but still might benefit from decanting. It shows candied cherry fruit over tarry-earthy notes and a hint of cut flowers. The tannins are still a bit puckery, but should be mostly resolved by 2010 – 2011. This wine is ideal served with red meats, cheese and strongly flavoured food. | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | Warm sunny days, cool evenings and well drained soils found on the benchlands and hillsides of the Alexander Valley give this cabernet a distinctive taste profile: bold fruit aromas, red plum and boysenberry flavours centered on the palate with rich mouthfilling rtexture and soft tannins, all of which we’ve framed in the finest oak barrels for 18 months. Enjoy over the next 3 to 6 years. | |
| | | |
| | Black cherry and spicy vanilla aromas, bright ripe fruit flavours and a velvety smooth, lingering finish define the style of this Merlot. Aged in small oak barrels, this Merlot is blended with small amounts of other varietals that help accentuate its complexity. This wine complements a wide range of foods from seafood to lamb, pork, beef and cheeses. | |
| | | |