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Neil Phillips

Neil Phillips

Cru Classé Cuvée Tradition

Clos Cibonne Cru Classé Cuvée Tradition Tibouren Rosé 2016

Cotes De Provence, France
1319 days ago

Neil scored this wine: 91/100

This is a unique rose from a storied producer. Made with 100% Tibouren, a local variety and from predominantly old vines that were planted as far back as the 1930s. Biologically aged in in 100-year-old foudres with a cap of yeast, this wine was built to age. Medium-intense copper in colour with aromas of green olives, cranberry, raspberry, figs and a red citrus note. On the palate, definite tannin grip and full-bodied mouthfeel. Red fruits predominate, with a salinity all the way through the long finish. This is a rose that will pair well with robust foods; went wonderfully with grilled swordfish. Am intrigued to try ageing a bottle a further few years to see how it develops. Tasted August 2020.

1319 days ago

Neil scored this wine: 91/100

Nose bursts with Granny smith apples and lemon zest, fresh brioche. Crisp and clean on the palate, with bright acidity and a fine mousse. Palate is refreshingly light, with tart apples and grapefruit predominating. There's a slight nuttiness from the time on lees. Long mineral finish. Tasted August 2020.

Sans Sulfites Ajoutés

Les Vignerons De Buzet Sans Sulfites Ajoutés 2018

Buzet, Southwest A.C., France
1320 days ago

Neil scored this wine: 85/100

A well-made wine from a region you don't find in Ontario frequently. Often considered a more "rustic Bordeaux", only in that similar red blends predominate - as is the case with this example. Good value, if not overly complex. Perfect for patio sipping or the barbie. Tasted August 2020.

Lightfoot & Wolfville Rosé 2018

Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, Canada
1320 days ago

Neil scored this wine: 90/100

Note: The listing says "rose", but this is L&W's Pinot Rose, which is distinct from their regular rose... Predominantly made from (Pinot) Meunier, pale salmon in colour. The nose is tart cherry and cranberry. On the palate, laser-like acidity combines with a saline note to make this a super food match. My mind was somehow thinking of a "rose Assyrtiko"? Fruit is present and lithe, all the same tart red fruits and slight Meyer lemon. Quite complex. Tasted August 2020.

1320 days ago

Neil scored this wine: 89/100

Provencal rose this is not. While a medium-intensity salmon in colour, the nose immediately offers an earthy note. Aromas of cherry, red plum, cranberry, red grapefruit and pot pourri - all under a mask of white mushroom, garrigue, and maybe faint farm. Medium-plus acidity, and noticeable tannins. Fruit Flavours follow the nose, with an earthy and mineral note lingering through the finish. This is a meatier rose, and will stand up to a wide variety of foods. I'd even suggest grilled lighter meats. Tasted August 2020.

Neil Phillips

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