Short notes from tonight's dinner at Cafe Ysabel.
Sattui Riesling 2006 - Petrol on the nose, which was a bit surprising for such a young Riesling. Quite soft, perhaps a bit more acidity would have improved it a bit. Semi sweet. Grapefruit. Some butterscotch after a bit of airing. Rather good I thought, although the finish was a bit short.
Steenburg Sauvignon Blanc 2005 - Very green, unripe flavors. Steely, with a bitter finish. Unpleasant.
Tamar Ridge Pinot Noir 2003 - From Tasmania. Very dry, crisp, rather heavy Pinot Noir. Smoky. Good but nothing special.
Santa Rita Carmenere 120 2003 - Very dark, young-looking. Sweetish and a bit jammy. Bitter chocolate. Easy, friendly wine.
Ridge Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet 2003 - Beautiful nose. Ripe berries, mint, tobacco. Classic Cabernet black currant. Clean and lean with a good dose of acidity making it food friendly. Could probably improve a bit more but seems a good drink right now.
Quinta do Crasto Vintage Port 1997 - From a half bottle. Spicy and figgy. A rather dry style of port. Ready to drink. Very good.