Last night - Jeanneret Clare Valley Riesling 2002 is an absolute gem basking in the glory of near maturity but without any signs of senility or falling apart with considerable air time. In fact it's still drinking incredibly well now, 6 hours after being opened and without the aid of screwcap back on or refrigeration. The colour is a bright pale gold, the nose rampant with toast, honeysuckle, lime and honey with a most satisfying, mouthfilling palate of similar flavours, cutting acidity and terrific length. It will last for several years. 12.5% A/V. 92 points.
Tonight - Richmond Grove Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 1998 - this is just so good, FWII. Reminiscent of a fine Wynns Black Label or similarly rated St. Hugo, this outstanding red is in a great place just at the minute and continues to hold its form and line. Deep ruby core with some bricking in the edges; magnificent Coonawarra cabernet nose of sweet earth, cedar, mint and weedy blackcurrant with astute oak input followed by a medium-bodied, elegant palate of some considerable class, terrific ripe but nicely understated curranty fruit with support from excellent integrated earth and cedar notes, lovely bright acid and tannin balance, mellowing slow and surely but in no hurry to be drunk. The wine's length is first-rate and I'd be pleased to drink this with anyone, anytime and anywhere. I think I paid 10 dollars for it. And have a guess - A/V is 12.5%! 93 points.