2009

With almost no posting action in 2009 I will see if I can change for 2010.

I will just write random snippets of anything and everything that was 2009..

Beaujolais

The Beaujolais region in France certainly produces some beautiful wines which are bargains compared to their Burgundian cousins.
The wines from Morgon, and particularly Cote Du Py in Morgon are exciting (both 2007 and 2008 vintages seem to be good.) Producers I like: Jean-Marc Burgaud and Jean Foillard.

New Zealand

A trip to NZ confirmed what we already know, they make awesome Pinot Noir. Not so impressed by the Sauv Blancs.. perhaps overcropping is now starting to show through the wines.
Highlight producers: Valli, Rockburn, Rippon, Aurum (07 Mathilde Reserve.. awesome wine).

2007 Wines

Much of the 2007 vintage wines were released.. and they weren't as bad as I imagined when first hearing of the vintage (and causing me to panic and buy up on the 06 vintage... which wasn't a bad idea after all!)

A couple stand outs off the top of my head:

Shaw Smith Shiraz
Glaetzer Amon-Ra
Tyrrells Steven's Shiraz (and pretty much all 2007 Hunter Valley wines it seems) Spinifex Shiraz Viogner
Spinifex Esprit
Starvedog Lane Shiraz Viogner
Everything from Western Australia

One thing I noticed was how good WA shiraz from the 2007 vintage is.
Cape Mentelle, Plan B, Howard Park, Leeuwin Estate (Finally an Art Series Shiraz worthy of the label's prestige).. you should all be seeking these bottles! Luckily there are plenty to go around.

Well there is the first post for 2010... we will see how the year goes.

Michael