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Tag Archives: california

Top Hat ’08

30 Monday Jan 2012

Posted by caspernick in Wine reviews

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

cabernet sauvignon, california


A Christmas gift from a co-worker, I wasn’t sure what to expect on this one.  I tried to search the web for it, nothing.  Very typical Cali Cab, bright fruit on the nose and palate, good tannins and a balanced finish.  I was really impressed with this bottle, but have no idea where to get it from or how much it costs.  I paired it with some Filets on the grill, worked a treat.  The tannic structure is perfect for this cut.  Not in-your-face, they are part and parcel, holding the wine together and showing no signs of letting up.  The fruit is still in primary mode, as would be expected from California.  Surprisingly, this wine is still very fresh yet shows some aging capability.  I would think it could last until 2018 at the least, and hopefully gain some secondary flavors without losing the its appealing fruit.  I reckon a 90 point rating and 4 stars are in order.

top hat cabernet

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Castle Rock ’09

10 Saturday Dec 2011

Posted by caspernick in Wine reviews

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

4 stars, 82 points, cabernet sauvignon, california, paso robles


A few of my colleagues gathered for a little Christmas cheer upon our arrival in Hong Kong and this was the first of many bottles to be opened.  Very primary in fruit with a decent nose and mid-palate it offered no sign of aging potential.  A decent way to start out as it was not heavy, complex or overpowering.  Very reasonably priced, this one is a sure winner for informal drinking or large parties.  From a pro standpoint, perhaps an 82 rating but I’m giving it 4 stars for being a good QPR player.

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