Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Château Reynella Cabernet-Merlot Basket Pressed 1997

It's always interesting to get reviews of wines that have been cellared for a while, even if they're not available any more, as it gives us an idea of whether the current vintage will do well.

--- Iron Chef's Review ---

The last of the Reynellas I own. Sorry to see them go. The best of the Shiraz, Cab and the Cab/Merlot was the Cab/Merlot.
Nose- Some barnyard notes or brett (Brettanomyces- a fungus, old barrels are frequently touted as the main culprits). Rich cherry and plum favours. Mint and dried spices like cloves. Lots of stuff going on in the nose.
Taste- Stewed Cherries and plums, Chocolate and Coffee. Cedar and sandalwood. Very smooth tannins. Rich, velvety texture. Seemed fresh and vivid. No trace of age or dullness. Finish that lasted for a long time.
Overall- had this with a couple of good friends, but probably had it 3-5 yrs too early. Lots of life left in this one. This had all the elements, smell, taste, complexity, length, everything. It tasted a lot like a Super Super Tuscan. Spoke with a representative of the NFLD Liquor and they still have a couple of this vintage amazingly.

Price: about $40
Value 5/5
Score 94
Grape- Cab/ Merlot Blend
Region- Australia- McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 13.5%
UPC: Not available in NB; purchased from NS Port of Wines

2 comments:

  1. Since the Reynella is back, I saw from Gord on Grapes in the Toronto Star:
    Down Under's best performer is Chateau Reynella Basket Pressed 2005 Shiraz (#510628, $34.95, 91) with its rich rush of chocolate, mocha and blackberry lushness.
    http://www.thestar.com/comment/columnists/article/662407

    ReplyDelete
  2. Iron Chef,

    I just took the 2001 Basket Pressed Shiraz out of the cellar. When do you want to drink it?

    ReplyDelete