Wine Enthusiast Top 100 and Top Values of 2007

Wine Enthusiast Top 100 and Top Values of 2007

Wine Spectator's top 100 wines of 2007

Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2007

2005 Chateau de La Dauphine Fronsac

90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc. Approx. $20 at Costco.
Opens nicely in 1-2 hours. Soft rounded fruit, the oak was handled nicely, balanced tannic finish. Barb and I liked this from the start but it continued to blossom with time.

A Fronsac estate formerly owned by Christian Moueix, of Château Petrus fame. Acquired by Jean Halley in 2000. The Moueix’s brought the vineyards up to speed and Halley has followed up with heavy investments in the vinification cellars. The efforts are clear in 2004 and clearer still with the 2005. La Dauphine is one of the appellation’s leaders again. 22 acres of 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc has delivered a wine with a purple plum colour, sweet cinnamon cherry aromas and a plum and cherry fruit palate with licorice and toast accents. Delicious now; better with a little time in the bottle.
88-90 Robert Parker Jr. The Wine Advocate, April 2007

2006 Panarroz Jumilla

A great Spanish bargain for around $7. A blend of mourvedre, grenache, and syrah rated 90pts. by Parker. Ripe blackberry and pepper, great mouthfeel. This is a deep dark chewy tannic beaut. I like it as is but it shines with food- serve with barbeque, how about spiced tri-tip or pork loin with chimichurri sauce? Interestingly, several remarked it went fine along side Bob's white coconut birthday cake!

2004 Peter Lehmann Clancy's

Under $13 and 90pts. from Wine Spectator. This blend varies a bit year to year, the 2004 is 43% Shiraz, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot.
I found dark fruits and a great balance of smokiness, oak, tobacco and dark wood. Nicely textured, smooth and friendly with a wonderful balance of tannins on the finish.
A enjoyable wine to drink on its own but will really shine pairing with many foods, grilled beef would be great. Highly recommended.