Viña Vieja Chenin Blanc – Peru – 2020

Que kawaii! This is a review of the regular Chenin Blanc label (not the “semi-seco” one). Bright green apple but not over acidic, makes it very drinkable. Less sugar than earlier years suggests the producer struggles with consistency. But given that it...

Bodegas Vilano Roble – Spain – 2019

Don Quixote but a High School version. Standard fare tempranillo from Spain, notes of black cherry with very (very) mild oak. A bit too acidic, shaving off a bit of score. Pair with food, because it’s a bit severe by itself.

Why Not? Blanco – Peru – 2021

Lawrence of Arabia, but less racist. Shockingly good white blend from the Ica Valley, which is inhospitable to the grape no matter what people say. A weird blend of Moscatel de Alejandría, Torontel and Albilla, and it really works. Lavender nose follows through to the...

Pascual Toso Alta Syrah – Argentina – 2017

War of the gargantuas turns into slap-fight – part 1. The nose was very flat, with some earth notes and blackcurrant, but just barely. On the palate, more blackcurrant came through, along with some spices and black pepper. Improved slightly with pairing. Read...

Dr. Loosen Dr. L Riesling – Germany – 2021

Younger twin matches brother’s aptitude. A dead tie for the 2020 vintage, and nearly identical in notes. Perhaps a bit more tang, but only slightly so. This is of the German “Qualitatswein” level of labeling, indicating a more varied and less...