30.11.06
Dinner at the Elm Hill Brasserie with the Harper Wells contingent. Most of the wines available from http://www.harperwells.com/

Ridge Chardonnay 2003
Pale Straw with honey, popcorn and caramel nose and lots of toasted oak. Smooth and moderately unctuous, collapsed a bit on the palette, very dry tannins and a medium finish. Young - may gets itself together with a bit more bottle age. 87pts

RAAT Original Chenin Blanc 2005 served with Sea Bass, with Capers, anchovy and parsley dressing. Very pale and dry, simple and pure with hints of celery, apple and pear with a salty finish. Elegant wine. 88pts

Mission Hill Pinot Blanc 2002
Pale gold colour , perfumed nose with pears and citrus fruits smooth and balanced - well made wine. 88pts

Brunello Cantina Di Montalcino 2001
Dark garnet - horse and leather with cherries - medium to full bodied, meaty on the palette - probably deserved more attention and was slightly overwhelmed by the delicious stew of wild venison haunch with venison and pork sausage 90-92pts

Alta Vista Alto 2003
Malbec with 15% cabernet sauvignon- full bodied blockbuster -very young , dark fruits and oak predominate - chocolate flavours compete - hopefully will all come together in 3-5 years
89-91 points

Cedre Prestige 2004 Cahors
Interesting to compare with the Alto. A blend of 90% malbec and 10% tannat. More tightly wound than the opulent 2002, full-bodied with fascinating floral notes mixed in with the black fruit, lovely texture, fairly restrained but well balanced. 90-92pts