1996 Faustino I Gran Reserva

My first tempranillo (actually a blend of tempranillo graciano, and mazuelo; rated 87 points). An old world, yet rich and full-bodied red that slowly opened up after a decade+ in the bottle. Even after several days, its red fruit and mineral character showed beautifully; last night, well integrated tannins begged to complement the New York strips which I had paired with the wine a couple days before. Mom liked the bottle it came in.

il Molino di Grace Riserva 2001

I'm satisfied on a consistent basis by the many wines imported by Ed Peterson of Domaine Select Wine Estates. Even after being open for several days, the wines have been particularly impressive. Especially this Chianti Classico from il Molino di Grace, particularly it's Selezione Il Margone, which maintains a complexity that's hard to beat and flavors that make me want to grill a New York strip at 3:10 a.m. In fact, it's so good that I think I'll act on my whim and broil that Kansas City strip I've got marinating in the fridge right now. On a sidenote, I'm rather stuffed up right now, but I get aromas of strawberries right now, but that's about it for now...we'll see if I have any left after my meal. If not, then oh well.

2005 Bradford Mountain Grist Vineyard Syrah

Three days old and with just over a half a bottle left. Having been stored in the fridge for the past two days, oxidation slowed considerably. After warming up to cellar temperature (50 degrees) and subsequently just below room temperature, its black fruits (cherries, blackberry) emerged along with a soft, yet prolonged finish; I don't get blueberry or plum, but I certainly agree with 88 points. Paired with Kansas City strip steaks embedded with crushed peppercorns, sourdough baguettes, and boc choy. Here's what James Laube had to say about it:

Ripe, rich and fleshy, with intense blueberry, wild berry and plum notes that are well-centered and complex, ending with firm tannins. Drink now through 2011. 500 cases made.–JL

2004 Altamura Cabernet

Two days old, but still plenty of life in a half full bottle. Oxidation had begun, but black currant, berries, and bing cherries were still prevalent and the finish was more than enjoyable. Not to mention, it was a wonderful complement to the porterhouse, potatoes, broccoli, and sweet peas. A typical Napa Cabernet, but one that's definitely worthy of a repeat performance (WS: 91 pts). Currently, a Costco special, but as the powers that be, I scored this one for free (see below).

Addendum: Altamura's New England distributors also push Opus One.

1999 Il Palazzone

I experienced this amazing Brunello di Montalcino (which, unfortunately is not imported for retail sale in the U.S. or so says this), along with numerous other wines (from Opus One, which was like velvet but still overrated, to a 1992 Stags Leap Winery Cabernet (amazingly complex and very well balanced), 1999 Heitz Bella Oaks Cabernet (nice, but not my favorite), 2002 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet (wonderful year and proof of Beringer's ongoing ability to produce top notch Cabernet capable of aging; their chardonnay, not so much), 2005 Etude Deer Camp Pinot Noir (blows their standard Carneros Pinot Noir OUT of the water), 2006 Elderton Command Shiraz (powerful, opulent, fruit forward, and possesses a complexity that shines), Perrier Jouet Fleur De Champagne (mmmmm, tasty), Krug's Grand Cuvee (After tasting this, I no longer wonder how Krug has the ability to sell a bottle of champagne for $$$$), complex and one that I repeatedly had to "taste") last night during an extravagant wine tasting event sponsored by the Boston Seaport Morton's. The event was stellar and the networking opportunities numerous; not to mention the great food and a silent auction, benefiting the Make A Wish Foundation and consisting of a Primat (27 Liters) of 2005 Charles Krug Vintage Selection and a private cocktail reception for 40. I'm currently drinking the remainder of this day-old Brunello which has had the chance to really open up. Aromas of wet earth, subtle red fruit, and flowers. Flavors of ripe, yet subdued strawberries, earth, and cherries, with a long, smooth finish. As I remember from yesterday, I didn't enjoy this Brunello as much as I did tonight. My favorite Brunello so far has been the 2001 Capanna Riserva.