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Ruth Blakely WSET 3, FV Sensory 2

Ruth Blakely WSET 3, FV Sensory 2

D. Cathiard, Prop.

Château Smith Haut Lafitte D. Cathiard, Prop. Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2005

A.C., Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France
2620 days ago

Ruth Blakely scored this wine: 95/100

The colour is just starting to fade at the edge of this very classy Bordeaux. The nose is classic with plenty of stewed plums fruit and enough tertiary aroma of forest floor to keep it interesting. The tannins are firm but well integrated and the finish goes for a week. This was consumed as part of a Bordeaux and beef dinner and was served from a magnum.

2620 days ago

Ruth Blakely scored this wine: 95/100

A beautifully made port that is just coming into its own, the 1994 Taylor Fladgate is an expression of some of the best Portugal has to offer. Still loaded with plummy stewed fruit, the hint of nuttiness on the nose hints at what this classic will offer in years to come. The sweetness is well balanced with acidity, it's rich and full in the mouth and the finish is spectacular. Enjoyed with perfect Stilton this is a wine people will be talking about for decades to come.

2650 days ago

Ruth Blakely scored this wine: 91/100

The nose brings fresh limes and white flowers to mind and your first sip delivers on the promise of a fresh high acid wine that shows a lovely balance. Terrific with your favourite spicey dish from South East Asia.

Screaming Frenzy

The Hatch Screaming Frenzy Meritage 2015

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada
2651 days ago

Ruth Blakely scored this wine: 91/100

Don't let the sense of humour fool you, The Hatch makes very good wine, they just don't take themselves too seriously. The 2015 Meritage is a rich purple and a nose to match. It's showing dark stewed fruit and has a silky mouth feel. Well made and a good value - it's a safe bet for a crowd.

Compendium

Mission Hill Compendium Cabernet Blend 2012

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, BC V.Q.A, Canada
2620 days ago

Ruth Blakely scored this wine: 91/100

This is a classic Bordeaux blend from the Okanagan's Mission Hill. The dark ruby colour hints at what is in the glass. Cassis and a bit of candy on the nose give way to berries and vanilla on the palate. Tannin is surprisingly soft for such a young wine so it may not age as long as you might expect. Drinking beautifully now.

Ruth Blakely WSET 3, FV Sensory 2

Memorable Wine

1989 Krug

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First Wine

B&G Bordeaux (I was 14)

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Unusual Wine Experience

Being buffeted by the Mistral wind while wandering through the vineyard at Baucastel

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Current Fav Wine

Juan Gil Jumilla

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Winner World's Best Drink Writer
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Best Wine Literature Book Gourmand World Cookbook Awards
Online Writer of the Year Louis Roederer International Wine Writing Award