2013
Ilaria 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Dark chocolate leads a smoky, supple profile, with ripe raspberry and blackberry bringing freshness to the richer fruit. A small portion of Petit Verdot adds depth and structure without obscuring the Cabernet core. Soft in texture yet lengthy and composed, the palate closes with lingering dark fruit, cocoa and a gentle savoury warmth.
Messias 2013 Clássico Garrafeira Bairrada DOC
Intense ruby, with resin, cedar and a cool balsamic lift set against distinctly saline, iodine-like detail. The palate is firm and substantial, shaped by fresh Atlantic acidity, yet the texture remains composed rather than severe. Savoury oak, dark fruit and mineral tension carry through a long, structured and age-worthy finish.
Hammeken Cellars 2013 Tosalet Vinyes Velles Priorat
Cranberry, red cherry and blackberry lead a concentrated aroma, joined by tobacco, cocoa and eucalyptus. The palate is full and structured, with firm, ripe tannins giving shape to the dark fruit. Slate and cracked pepper add a savoury mineral edge, while liquorice brings depth through the middle. The finish is long and warming, carrying fruit, spice and cocoa in a composed, persistent line.
Fattoria La Vialla 2013 Casa Conforto Chianti Riserva
Mature and savoury, with wild cherry and blackberry joined by violet, cedar and star anise. The palate is dry and firmly structured, yet the fruit remains clear through the tannic frame. Earthy spice and gentle oak carry into a composed, lingering finish. Decant briefly and serve with roast lamb, grilled beef, mushroom ragù or aged pecorino.
Paternoster 2013 Don Anselmo Aglianico del Vulture DOC
Bright, deep ruby in colour, with red fruit, leather, balsamic herbs and dark spice on a broad, complex nose. The palate is dry, powerful and structured, combining an earthy, brooding character with pure fruit and a mineral core. Elegant through its weight, it closes with balance and exceptional length.
Mamete Prevostini 2013 Corte di Cama Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG
Subtle vanilla, cedar and steeped prune open slowly, leading into dried black cherry, mocha, liquorice and star anise. The palate is dense and full-bodied, its concentrated fruit framed by close-grained tannins. Warmth builds without losing shape, carrying dark fruit and savoury spice through a long, composed finish.
Tyrrell’s 2013 HVD Single Vineyard Semillon
A beautifully evolved Semillon with honey, beeswax, lemon oil and fresh ginger on the nose. Bone dry and precise, the palate balances laser-like acidity with layered, almost waxy texture and a long citrus-led finish. Its brightness keeps the mature savoury notes in clear focus. Serve well chilled with oysters, grilled white fish, roast chicken or dishes dressed with lemon and herbs.
Penfolds Grange 2013
Powerful and intensely youthful, with blueberry, redcurrant, plum and mulberry joined by coffee bean, chocolate, allspice, Szechuan pepper and dry herbs. Richly textured and dense, the palate combines bright fruit with remarkably smooth tannins, precise balance and a long, spicy finish. Give it about four hours in a decanter and serve with roast lamb or beef.
Château du Hureau 2013 Saumur Blanc Argile
Domaine René Rostaing 2013 Côte Blonde Côte-Rôtie
Fresh raspberry and boysenberry rise with potpourri, floral oils and smoky mineral notes. Lively red and dark berry flavours fill the palate, gaining depth from peppery spice, olive, truffle and a savoury forest-floor nuance. Fine, gently firm tannins frame the concentrated fruit, while clear mineral energy drives the long, precise and persistent finish.
Champagne P. Lancelot-Royer 2013 Grand Cru Millésimé Blanc de Blancs Brut
Toasted apple, honeysuckle and white flowers rise over warm brioche. The palate is smooth and mature, with generous orchard fruit held taut by vivid tension and clean mineral cut. Extended lees ageing brings depth without dulling the energy, carrying the fine mousse into a long, silky and composed finish.