Vina Haras de Pirque

Vina Haras de Pirque

Haras de Pirque's name honors the country's oldest thoroughbred breeding stud , founded in 1892. In 1991 , after a highly successful business career in Chile's private sector , entrepreneur Eduardo Matte acquired an estate that he would later name Haras de Pirque , in the southwestern part of Pirque , a prestigious winegrowing area situated in the Maipo Valley. Eduardo Matte's objectives included launching a major winery project , and expanding and improving the exising.

This property today covering 600 hectares , gently ascends the lower slopes of a spur of the Andes Mountains. In these foothills , between 1992 and 1993 , one hundred and twenty hectares of vineyards were planted , mainly with the reds Cabernet Sauvignon , Merlot and Carmenere , and the whites , Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Along with wine-growing and thoroughbred raising , Eduardo Matte gives free rein to his other passions , one of which is the collection of old carriage , all drawn by suitably bred horses. The collection cirrently features 18 models with a stable of 30 horses that , together with four thoroughbred stallions and nearly two hundred mares and foals , trot and gallop through Haras de Pirque's wide , green pastures.

Vina Haras de Pirque

Now , lets talk about his Vineyards. Vina Haras de Pirque is located in the wine-growing region of the Maipo Valley , Pirque sub-region , both classified internationally as producers of fine wines. Due to its unique geographical and climatic conditions , the Upper Maipo area , where Pirque is situated , is renowned for its production of Chile's best red wines , especially Cabernet Sauvignon.

Vina Haras de Pirque features a uniquely designed , Horse-shoe shaped winery , the Only one of its kind in the world. Build on the side of a hill , the 5300 square meter , 1.5 million liter production capacity structure dominates and is a tribute to both the estate's vineyards and the thoroughbred farm. The inner sloping floors allow the force of gravity to slowly , gently move the musts and wines , thereby obviating the need for pumps and other kinds of tranfer systems. This substantially reduces the potential for oxidation and the loss of the wine's organoleptic characteristics.

The Horse-shoe shaped estate now operates both as equesteian centre and state-of-the-art winery ( the influence of the Matte family's Chilean thoroughbreds can be seen in the 'Equus' range ). Quality has always been high. This has resulted in a flagship wine called 'Albis' , a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere , spearheaded by oenologists Renzo Cotarella ( of Antinori ) , Cecilia Guzman ( of Haras de Pirque ) and their consultant winemaker , Alvaro Espinoza.

Below was some example of wines from their signature ranges , 'Equus' , 'Character' , and 'Elegance' .

Vina Haras de Pirque - 'Character'

Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Grape Variety : 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Flavor : Bright intense greenish-yellow color. Lovely notes of citrus peel and mineral notes with a persistant aroma character of fresh green apples. The wine was full and fresh , nice balance in acidity reflects all the mineral and herbal character of this wine. Persistent and elegant at the end.

Vina Haras de Pirque - 'Character'
Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

Grape Variety : 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Flavor : Character Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 has excellent fruit concentration , ripe black berries and dried fruits in the mouth combined with a complex and elegant attack. This wine presents a spicy final with toffee and chocolate being a great perfomer of Upper Maipo Valley. Drink from now until 2012.

Vina Haras de Pirque - 'Haras'

Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Grape Variety : 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Flavor : Its has a color of bright greenish-yellow. Intense grapefruit nose , subtle mineral notes with inderlying typical grassy aroma character. The flavor was fresh and young , crispy. Lively and balanced. Presents mineral and citrus finish , quite elegant and fine. So had to drink now.

Vina Haras de Pirque - 'Haras'
Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

Grape Variety : 85% Cabernet Sauvignon , 9% Syrah , 3% Marlot , 3% Cabernet Franc

Flavor : The color was dark purple red with violet reflects. This wine has a generous fruity and cedar nose , with some fresh mint notes blended with a very attractive leather and spicy touch. The palate is full with a nice balance of ripe fruit finish. Smooth tannins , fresh minerality and a core of concentrated fruit.

Vina Haras de Pirque - 'Equus'

Chardonnay 2007

Grape Variety : 100% Chardonnay

Flavor : Beautiful pale gold , brilliant and limpid. The wine was young and fresh , rich in flavours of citrus and melon and temperate fruits. The long finish prolongs the pleasure with a pronouced mineral presence enhanced by a delicate hint of wood. Good. Drink now.

Vina Haras de Pirque - 'Equus'
Carmenere 2006

Grape Variety : 85% Carmenere , 15% Cabernet Sauvignon

Flavor : Having a dark violet with ruby reflection. Ripe black fruit , blueberries and figs in the nose. A mineral and herbal touch blended with tobacco and flowers. In the mouth feels concentrated with soft and juicy tannins combined with fresh fruits and lots of freshness in the mouth.

Vina Haras de Pirque - 'Albis'
Albis 2003

Grape Variety : 73% Cabernet Sauvignon , 27% Carmenere

Flavor : The 2003 vintage in Upper Maipo Valley had excellent weather conditions during early summer and harvest. Deep red in colour. And the flavor layers of mint and chocolate , with a persistent hint of cherries. Very complex , ripe , deep and sweet tannins. Concentrated and velvety in mouth feel. Opulent fruit and spicy ending. Best for your collection.

Thanks

Wingcent
wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com
Singapore

Clifford Bay

Clifford Bay

Eric and Beverley Bowers formed Clifford Bay Estate in 1994 after recognizing early that the Awatere Valley in Marlborough , New Zealand , was a region of great winemarking promise. The Estate vineyard was established on the banks of the beautiful Awatere River that flows from its birth in the high country alpine basins.

Since the first award winning vintage in 1997 , Clifford Bay Estate has continued to produce exceptional wines from their own several premium vineyards located in the Awatere Valley. Their latest Sauvignon Blanc continues a proud tradition of every vintage that they have produced winning Gold Medals.

The Marlborough region is widely recogised as producing the Best Sauvignon Blanc , the world has to offer and the Awatere Valley is becoming widely recognised for its own distinct Marlborough flavour. The climate is punctuated with cool nights and dry sunny days offering the grapes a long slow ripening period which in turn produces very aromatic and intensely flavoured wines.

Complementing those natural attributes are the skills in vineyard management and winemarking , which Managing Director , Eric Bowers describes as "a great team operation".

Thanks

Wingcent

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com

Singapore

Clairault

Clairault

Clairault winery is named after Cape Clairault peninsular situated along the coastine of Margaret River's wine region. 3 hours south of Perth, Western Australia. Since its inception, Clairault has been recognised as a serious player in Margaret River. The winery was the 6th property to plant grapes in the Wilyabrup sub-region of Margaret River. Situated less than 4 kilometres inland from the Indian Ocean and 120 metres above sea level, the property is 230 hectares ( 570 acres ) in size, with an average of 300 sunshine days per year.

Now the winery was owned by the Martin Family, a new era has begun. Bill and Ena along with their 3 sons, Shane, Conor and Brian, bought the property in 1999. They immediately set about turning the winery into a "no compromise" operation.

No winery would be complete without a star winemaker. Will Shields joined Clairault as Chief Winemaker from Vasse Felix in 2003 and sole focus in the Clairault Estate and Clairault Range.

Clairault Estate Range

The Clairault Estate wines are handcrafted and specially selected from the oldest vines, now in their 30th years of production. They are matured in individual batches using 100% French oak. Will's strict guidelines ensure that only select barrels are used in the final blend. Yields can be as low as 2 tonnes per acre from bunch thinning by hand and spur pruning. The Clairault Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Clairault Estate Canernet Merlot spend 24 months in oak prior to bottling. The Clairault Estate Chardonnay spends a total of 12 months in French oak with partial malolactic fermentation.

Clairault Range

The Clairault Range is also Estate grown fruit. The average age of the vines is 15 years and yields are as low as 2 tonnes per acre. The Clairault Sauvignon Blanc is un-oaked, the Semillon Sauvignon Blanc is 95% un-oaked and the Clairault Chardonnay is 70% un-oaked. On the whole, the winemaking is kept simple for this wine range allowing the fruit quality to speck for itself. The focus is on crisp, clean and crunchy flavours giving the wines their drink now appeal.

The Clairault Cabernet Sauvignon spends 18 months maturing in French oak and is a true reflection of elegant and balanced Margaret River wine. The Clairault Cabernet Merlot is matured in 1 to 4 years old French oak barriques for 18 months before blending developing a rich and dense palate with ripe tannins and a firm acidity. The fruit for their Clairault Shiraz is sourced from a grower in Wilyabrup who has been supplying Clairault for over 5 years. Pepper and savoury notes make their wine food friendly.

In 2004, Clairault Reserve Cabernet and Clairault Chardonnay won Gold at the London International Wine Challenge. In 2005, the Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 was awarded one of the TOP 100 WINES for 2005 at the Sydney International Wine Show and one of the TOP 5 Cabernet Sauvignon's produced in Australia in 2005 by Winestate. Following the success of the Canernet Sauvignon, the Clairault Chardonnay 2004 received the BEST in CLASS at the 2005 International Wine and Spirit Competition in London.

Thanks

Wingcent
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com
Singapore

Cape Grace

Cape Grace

Growing under the house flag of a pioneering South West family , located a stones throw from the stars of the Willyabrup Valley lies Cape Grace's carefully tended vineyard.

Cape Grace Wines is owned and operated by Robert and Karen Karri-Davies. A great-grandson of timber baron M.C.Davies of Karridale - one of the founders of Margaret River, Robert and Karen Karri-Davies has returned with his family to the region to handcraft fine wines that are full of the flavour and character of Margaret River.

In 1996, Robert and Karen Karri-Davies planted their 15 acre vineyard on the headwaters of the Willyabrup Valley. From the start Robert & Karen set out to produce handcrafted, luxury wines at Cape Grace. The fact that 'great wine is grown in the vineyard' was of vital importance, so when the farm on which Dr Tom Cullity originally wanted to establish Vasse Felix became available, Robert and Karen knew they had 15 acres of prime grape-growing vineyard.

Philosophy of Cape Grace is a work in progress of a long-term commitment to excellence. Its wine is as much about nuance and art as it is skills and passion. Their estate grown fruit and vinification on the property , fermentation in new French & American Oak ( Seguin Moreau ) , free run juice and light pressing , minimal interference and strict temperature and hygiene controls are the hallmarks of a fine wine and all are employed at Cape Grace Wines.

Since a trophy wine for the 'BEST Wine at the 2001 Sheraton Wine Award', with their first vintage , the 2000 Cape Grace Cabernet Sauvignon set the uncompromising quality benchmark for all future wines. This ongoing challenge has been met a splendid collection of Gold , Silver and Bronze Medals for many of their wines of subsequent vintages.

Thanks

Wingcent
wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com

Singapore

The Laurance

The Laurance

The Laurance, which was one of my favourite. This property comprises over 120 hectares, 22 hectares under vine, and fronts the primary tourist route of Caves Road, linking the town sites of Busselton, Dunsborough and Yalling up in the north with Margaret River and Augusta in the south providing access to the majority of the region's main tourist attractions.

Laurance was established in May 2001 and is situated 255 kms south of the City of Perth and falls within the prestigious Margaret River region. The Margaret River district is recognised globally as a premium viticultural region producing less than 1 percent of Australia's wine but over 15 percent of Australia's premium wine. It has an abundance of natural attractions to indulge your senses including underground crystal caves, a rugged coastline with pristine white beaches and natural forests.

In 2001, the Laurance family purchased 40 hectares of prime viticultural land, this property consisted of 21 hectares of vines planted in 1996, three white and three red varieties. Dianne Laurance had a vision to create a Cellar with a difference, so in order to retain the vineyard as a private family property, the Laurance's acquired the adjoining 60 hectares to fulfil the dream.

The Cellar is adorned with beautiful artworks and sculptures from around Australia. The grounds boast a 1,000 bush rose garden and two spectacular sculptures. As you approach the rntrance, you will notice "The Garden of Eden" tree with its one tempting red apple. This piece designed by Dianne and commissioned by Wil Wilson of Willie Wildlife Sculptures to create.

In the middle of the lake suspended on a 14 metre electric blue pole you will see "Free as a Bird". This magnificent 3 metre lady is finished in 24ct gold leaf and represents the Freedom and Opportunities that this great country of their affords them all. This piece was also designed by Dianne and commissional by Charlie & Joan Smith. Nicknamed by the locals as the "Chick on a Stick".

Now, lets talk about their wines. Laurance produces two labels, the premium range "Laurance of Margaret River" and "Aussie Jeans Rock". There are nine wines in their portfolio. Both labels are winning some outstanding National and International Awards for the wine and packaging.

Here were their wines i would like to share with you :

Laurance of Margaret River

ROSE

A true European style Rosé with a dry finish made from Shiraz. Wonderfully inviting aromas of sweet raspberry and fresh wild flowers abound. The salmon pink hue and the generous flavours are cradled by a crispness and freshness which is reminiscent of a sun filled spring day. It's a "must have" wine for every Occasion.

Laurance of Margaret River

WHITE

Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Chardonnay which will vary slightly each year depending on the harvest. Aromas of Chinese gooseberries, pear and zesty citrus introuduce a cache of ripe flavoursome fruits. The wine is presented on a minerally and crisp acid backbone which carries a long, vibrant finish.

Laurance of Margaret River

CHARDONNAY

Bright and lively with complex stone fruit and fig aromas in front of some smoke, toastiness, vanilla and hazelnut. The palate is nicely textured with a long intricate minerally aftertaste. The wine is delicious in its youth; however, those who cellar it with care will be well rewarded with increased complexity.

Laurance of Margaret River

RED

The colour is a welcoming and refined ruby red. The nose is an infusion of red berries, plums and black currants, supported by gentle and opulent tannins. The Cabernet provides the definition of structure, while the Merlot provides a plummy softness. This aristocratic style is accessible now, and should be at its peak after two to five years of careful maturation.

Laurance of Margaret River

Just A Sweetie

Just a Sweetie is our first dessert style wine. Grapefruit, fig and floral aromas. The palate is medium sweet, with lively acidity which reveals crème-brule, apricot and orange peel flavours. We have found that Just a Sweetie is a wonderful partner to dried fruit, strongly flavoured cheeses, nuts and those wonderful citrus flavoured desserts.

Laurance Aussie Jeans Rock

PINK

This Margaret River Shiraz based Rose has aromas of raspberry and freshly crushed strawberries and a dry lingering finish with a hint of sweetness on the back palate. A refreshing aperitif on its own as well as an ideal partner for their wonderful Aussie seafood and our local spicy dishes.

Laurance Aussie Jeans Rock

WHITE

This Semillon Sauvignon Blanc blend has layers of fruit, including gooseberry, citrus and figs, all presented on a zesty, crisp and flavoursome palate. A wonderful partner to modern Australian cuisine.

Laurance Aussie Jeans Rock

RED

This Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon blend is smooth and rich with supple silky tannins offering a fresh mulberry, plum and toast flavours. This should be partnered with heavier foods such as a good Aussie steak or other meats and cheeses.

Laurance Aussie Jeans Rock

MERLOT

A bright, fresh merlot with youthful, purple colour and aromas of dark plums, vanilla and ripe blackberries. The warm ripening season of 2005 has resulted in a wine with soft, ripe tannins and plenty of juicy, sweet fruit characters. Matured in 225 L barriques, the wine displays chocolate and mocha oak characters with delicious blackcurrant and plum flavours that last through the palate. Ready to enjoy now however the wine will develop further complexity with short term cellaring.

Thanks,

Best Regards

Wingcent

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com

Singapore

Château de Beaucastel

Château de Beaucastel

Château de Beaucastel is located five kilometres south-east of Orange at the northern limit of the Châteauneuf du Pape appellation.

The Beaucastel family were living in Courthezon by the middle of the sixteenth century.In 1549 "Noble Pierre de Beaucastel" bought "a barn with its plot of land extending to 52 saumées at Coudoulet".

Later, the manor house that we know today was built here and you can still see the arms of the Beaucastel family sculpted in stone in one of walls of the drawingroom.

The Beaucastels were among the more notable families of this little town and in 1687 Pierre de Beaucastel, in recognition of his conversion to Catholicism after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, was appointed "Capitaine de la ville de Courthezon" by Louis XIV. The letter from Louis XIV, also signed by Colbert, to Pierre de Beaucastel is still in our possession.

Two centuries later at the time of the phylloxera, the owner of Beaucastel was Elie Dussaud, a companion of Ferdinand de Lesseps who built the Suez Canal. In 1909 Pierre Tramier bought the property and Beaucastel then passed to his son-in-law, Pierre Perrin, a scientist who considerably increased the vineyard holding. His efforts were continued by Jacques Perrin until 1978 ...

Today the torch is carried by Jean Pierre and François, sons of Jacques. But Marc, Pierre, Thomas and Matthieu, who represent the fifth generation, are ready to pursue this fabulous family history.

Beaucastel Red

The result of all the efforts and innovations of three generations of the Perrin family is evident when one has the pleasure of tasting a good vintage of Château de Beaucastel at its peak. If one word could describe the red wines of Beaucastel it would be "pure" : because these wines are the natural expression of the place and the grapes from which they come.

In this case the vineyard is a patchwork of the 13 permitted grape varieties It covers 70 hectares in all. The soil is the same porous, aerated blanket of Alpine diluvium ( with rounded stones ) over a base of Miocene marine limestone that exists elsewhere on the estate. The vines are on average 50 years old and yields are never more than 30 hectolitres per hectare and often much less. This is a vibrant and healthy vineyard due to years of organic cultivation.

The red wine of Beaucastel, as is the Coudoulet de Beaucastel, is structured, intense yet lean, partially thanks to the large percentage of Mourvedre - about 30% - in the final blend. Its austere tannic backbone and resistance to oxidation help Beaucastel age gracefully. Grenache ( 30% ) contributes a warming sensation of ripe fruit and a velvety feeling in the mouth. Syrah at 10%, and Muscardin and Vaccarese with around 5% each, add colour and spicy aromas while increasing the wines ageing potential. 5% of Cinsault is added for softness and its special bouquet.

The remainder is made up of small quantities of the seven other varieties allowed in Châteauneuf du Pape. They add that extra note of graceful complexity which make Château de Beaucastel such an extraordinary wine. Once the flash heating method has been accomplished, Beaucastel Rouge follows a more or less classic vinification. Most of the varieties are fermented separately until the malo-lactic fermentation is completed, at which point they are blended after comprehensive tastings.

The young wine then matures in large oak barrels of 40 hl /1000 gal. for about 12 months. Fining is carried out with egg whites, and then the wine is bottled and left to age one more year in Beaucastel’s cellars before being offered for sale.

The Grenache and the Cinsault give the wine its colour, intensity and softness. The Mourvèdre, Syrah, Muscardin and Vaccarèse give the wine its renowned ageing potential and dark, classic character. The Counoise, Picpoul and other varieties provide freshness, fragrance and aromatic quality.

Beaucastel white

The white wines of Château de Beaucastel are amongst the finest expressions of Roussanne grapes grown in a warm climate. The two cuvees have a lot in common but show different personalities : the standard bottling, made from 80% Roussanne and 20% Grenache Blanc, whose vines are between 10 and 40 years old, and a small quantity of the “Vieilles Vignes” cuvee, produced entirely from Roussanne vines of at least 65 years of age.

When the right moment has been determined, the grapes are harvested by hand and taken quickly to the winery in small baskets. A second hand sorting is done upon arrival to cull any unripe or damaged grapes. After a light pneumatic pressing, the must is allowed to clarify overnight. Thirty percent of the wine is fermented in barrels and the remainder in temperature controlled stainless steel vats. Once the malo-lactic fermentation is completed, half of the new wine matures in small oak barrels and half in vats for about eight months. The Vieilles Vignes cuvée is kept in oak for a longer period.

Hommage

The Château de Beaucastel Hommage à Jacques Perrin from those years was made mostly from very old Mourvedre vines yielding tiny quantities of intensely ripe, concentrated fruit. Those fortunate enough to have tasted this never forget it. Truly a "grand vin".

The wine was deep black-ruby colour. Profound aromas of black cherry, cassis, spice, leather and game, with an almost medicinal aspect. Very sweet entry, then firm and closed, almost too hard on the palate today. Extremely concentrated on the finish.

A wine to be kept for your retirement.

Roussanne Vieilles Vignes

100% Roussanne, hand-picked and collected in baskets, grapes sorted, pneumatic pressing and clarification of the must. Fermentation takes place 50% in barrels and 50% in stainless steel vats. Pale yellow in colour, acacia flowers and honey. The palate was very rich, honeyed.

Its a wine of exceptional complexity and balance, it should approach its peak in five to six years.

Coudoulet de Beaucastel Red

Coudoulet, as Beaucastel, owes its ability to age to the high proportion of Mourvedre - about 30% - that makes up the final cuvée. This provides a tannic backbone and resistance to oxidation that ensures long life. In addition, Mourvedre introduces aromas of leather, tobacco, and spice to the blend. One should note also that the Beaucastel and Coudoulet vineyards are at the northern limit for growing Mourvedre, and it is well known that the best expressions of any varietal come from the cooler parts of their growing areas.

The other main variety, Grenache, gives Coudoulet the rounded fullness and intense fruit that is typical of Côtes du Rhône. Syrah and Cinsault represent about 20% each and bring tannins and aromatic complexity to Coudoulet. Colour was bright and lively, with great depth. Red fruits with the palate of luscious, with hints of thyme.

Coudoulet White

30% Marsanne, 30% Viognier, 30% Bourboulenc and 10% Clairette, which were hand picked grapes and collected in baskets prior to sorting, pneumatic pressing and clarification of the must, fermentation partially in oak barrels and partially in steel tanks. With a eight months maturing in barrels and steel tanks, before blending and bottling, without cold stabilisation. Having a pale yellow colour with peaches and honey. The palate was rounded and rich, full bodied wine with a balanced freshness and floral notes.

Thanks

Wingcent

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com

Singapore

Summerhouse

Summerhouse

Here was another special vineyard that was developed in 1995 on a beautiful site in Marlborough’s Wairau Valley in New Zealand. Marlborough have long specifically been famed for the production of pungent, lifted, flavour-packed Sauvignon Blanc. The concentrated, mouth watering aromas and juicy vibrant flavours are unique to this region and highly desired by wine lovers the world over.

With the rich backdrop of the Kaikoura Ranges and views to the Richmond Ranges, together with the more practical elements of ideal soil structure aspect, and climate. Heather and Meric Davies knew they had found their ideal site.

The vineyard was planted with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and the resulting grapes sold to existing producers of Marlborough wines. Heather and Meric had a deep passion and knowledge for growing quality grapes and wanted this to be their focus, preferring to sell the fruit rather than make wine themselves. This uncluttered approach lead to very strong demand for their grapes which have in turn contributed to award-winning wines for a number of producers.

After much thought and discussion, Heather and Meric decided that based on the quality and demand for their grapes, they would like to see them bottled as single vineyard wines rather than as components of bigger blends. They wanted to share the rewards of this unique vineyard with others and had a strong feeling that what they had to offer was different to that of the many other Marlborough wine producers

Understanding their own strengths and weaknesses, Heather and Meric outsourced the expertise required in order to realise this newly revised goal and produced their first wines. As is their way, they made no fanfare of releasing their first wines and just quietly sold a few cases here and there before officially celebrating their creation with family and friends.

When launching a new wine, much thought has to go into the design of the label and the look and feel of the brand. Wanting to be true to Heather and Meric’s ideals, the Summerhouse concept was developed to represent ‘freedom’ – something the Davies’ enjoy and value from their lifestyle in their beautiful and inspirational part of Marlborough.

Rather than be told what to expect from this wine, it is up to each person to derive their own interpretation from the wine’s look and feel. You are encouraged to take your own journey of discovery while the wine’s imagery inspires feelings of freedom and memories of childhood summers yet also of dreams and aspirations. Instead of a back label describing the wine, there is a poem that further contributes to the enticing feeling of freedom, relaxation and being what you want to be. The wines clearly show empathy with today’s busy lifestyle and offer a respite, a haven. By enjoying a Summerhouse wine, you are transported to that special place where you are free to be you.

Below was some example of their wines :

Summerhouse Sauvignon Blanc 2006

An early warm spring with regular periods of rainfall resulted in healthy canopies. Dry weather at flowering meant lovely even fruit set. The ripening period occurred early in Marlborough, and resulted in beautifully ripe balanced fruit. Light, bright and pale with a hint of green in appearance. It uplifted perfume of exotic Pacific fruits with hints of nettles. Packed with fresh, juicy, vibrant flavours and matched with a weighty texture, this wine is classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. The rich palate contains flavours of Passionfruit and nettles with hints of Cardamom. The firm acid is balanced with ripe fruit weight.

Best recommended ideal as an aperitif, with shellfish, seafood with herbs, asparagus, goats cheese, tomato based dishes.

Summerhouse Pinot Noir 2004

A warm flowering led to continued good growing conditions. Harvest was dry with plenty of sun given richly coloured, dark berries and providing a slow, even ripening. With the style of medium-bodied, slightly savoury with ripe berry fruit. Vibrant dark pink with hints of ruby appearance. It lifted spice and ripe red berry fruits. Dry palate but with integrated tannin and the sweet flavours of ripe cherries and raspberries. Some savoury, almost leathery hints add to this wine’s complexity and its appeal. The finish is clean and lingering.

Salmon, game, red meat dishes, char-grilled food, Peking duck, spiced dishes and chocolate cake was the best food accompaniments . Try it.

Thanks

Wingcent
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com
Singapore

Pétrus

Pétrus

Pétrus is a wine situated on the higher point of the Pomerol wine region in Bordeaux. The wine is made almost entirely from the Merlot grape. Although the wines of Pomerol have never been classified, Pétrus is now considered among the best of Bordeaux along with the First Growths. Not only so, nowadays, Pétrus is considered to be the most interesting of the Pomerols. The estate was among the first in Bordeaux to implement green-harvesting as a way to lower crop yields and raise the quality of the remaining grapes. There is no Château physically on the estate, and nowhere is it written on the label; this explains why it is simply referred to as Pétrus, and not Château Pétrus. The Château belongs to the family of the Libourne wine merchant Moueix.

Newly released bottles are typically offered for more than $500 as futures, with mature examples often fetching more than $1,000. However, this is a recent phenomenon, and as recently as 1970 Pétrus could be purchased for $20,000.

The vineyard of Pétrus soil consists of a high percentage of iron-rich clay, much more than is contained in surrounding properties. The vines, 95% of which are planted with Merlot and the remainder with Cabernet Franc, which is usually not included in the 'grand vin', have an average age of over 40 years.

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1921, 1929, 1945, 1947, 1948, 1949, 1950, 1961, 1964, 1970, 1971, 1975, 1982, 1989, 1990, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2005 & 2006.

Thanks

Wingcent
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com
Singapore

Château Pavie

Château Pavie

Located on St. Emilion's southern slope, Château Pavie, along with Château Ausone, have the best soil in Saint Emilion. Chateau Pavie is one of the leading estates of the right bank appellation of St Emilion. It is classified as a Class B Premiers Grands Crus Classé. The estate is located on one of the most desirable plots of land on the hills on St Emilion, where once there were orchards of deeply colored peaches known as pavies.
In the 4th century, the hillsides of Ausone and Pavie were planted with the first vines to arrive in the region. Château Pavie is set on one of the most famous plots of land in St Emilion.

Soils corresponding to the Saint Emilion limestone "plateau", located around 85 meters up from the Dordogne, are composed of clay-limestone soil on top of chalk with marine fossils. Soils corresponding to the "mid-hillside" land 55 meters up from the Dordogne, are composed of a brown clay-limestone soil with a fine texture.

The vineyards are primarily Merlot ( 60% ), with Cabernet Franc ( 30% ) and Cabernet Sauvigon ( 10% ). The 1998, 1999 and 2000 vintages are a roaring success. Pavie is not only a fantastic heritage, its future as one of the greatest wines in the world is now assured thanks to the painstaking work of a family who are passionate about this land.

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1970, 1990, 1998, 1999, 2004 & 2005.

Thanks

Wingcent
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com
Singapore

Chateau Pape Clement

Chateau Pape Clement

Chateau Pape Clement is located in the Commune of Pessac, only 2 kilometers south-west of the city of Bordeaux. Chateau Pape Clément is one of the oldest great growths in Bordeaux. The vineyards were first planted in the 13th century by Bertrand de Goth, the youngest son of a noble family from Bordeaux. He was elected Pope in 1305, during the reign of Philippe le Bel, and took the name of Clément V. Château Pape Clément belonged to the Archbishop of Bordeaux until the French Revolution. Wine has been made here continuously for 7 centuries.

The land where Chateau Pape Clement lies is on the oldest of these alluvial terraces, the graveled nappe of the Pyrenees. The unique character of the Pape Clement site resides in the presence of a thin covering layer of more recent alluvial deposits from the Garonne. The proportion of clay increases to the east; this type of soil, better at retaining water, diffuses it slowly. The vines thus begin the maturation process under moderate hydric stress, without being vulnerable to the phenomena of sudden drought conditions.

The high percentage of iron in the subsoil and subterranean water contribute to the land’s personality. According to the experts, this contributes to the spicy and smoky bouquet characterizing Chateau Pape Clement wines. The vineyard is planted with Cabernet Sauvigon ( 60% ) and Merlot ( 40% ).

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1966, 1990, 2000, 2003 & 2005.

Thanks

Wingcent

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com

Singapore

Chateau Lynch Bages

Chateau Lynch Bages

Chateau Lynch Bages is situated on the Bages plateau near the village of Bages itself, just southwest of Pauillac. It is one of the dozen Pauillac properties classified as Fifth Growths in the 1855 classification.

Although classified as a Fifth Growth, Chateau Lynch Bages is one of those properties which illustrates the single most important failing of this classification; it is outdated and in desperate need of review. Those in the know recognize that Chateau Lynch Bages, under the direction of Jean-Michel Cazes and with financial backing from the AXA insurance group, often produces wine worthy of a higher classification, no matter what the label says.

The well-drained soil consists mainly of Garonne gravel. The sub-soil ( marl, chalk, and thick clay-sand gravel, or hardpan ) forms a solid, but fairly disjointed foundation, enabling the roots of old vines to grow to a depth of 6-8 metres. The grand vin here is Chateau Lynch Bages, fermented in stainless steel with must concentration if required. The cuvaison lasts three weeks, with malolactic in tank before going into oak, of which at least 50% is new, for up to fifteen months. The nearby Chateau Haut Bages Averous has, since 1978, been used as the second label for Lynch-Bages.

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1899, 1955, 1959, 1961, 1970, 1975, 1985, 1989, 1990, 1995, 2000 & 2005.

Thanks

Wingcent

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com

Singapore

Château Léoville-Las Cases

Château Léoville-Las Cases

Château Léoville-Las Cases is a winery in the St-Julien appellation of the Bordeaux wine region of France. Château Léoville-Las Cases is also the name of the red wine produced by this property. The Château was classified as one of fifteen Deuxièmes Cru Classés ( Second Growths ) in the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855 thus, it is among the most prestigious in France. Léoville Las Cases is a 2ème Cru Classé in name but produces 1er Cru Classé quality wines.

Château Léoville-Las Cases is one of the largest and oldest classified growths in the Medoc. Originally the other two Leovilles, Leoville Poyferre and Leoville Barton were part of the large estate. Today Leoville Las Cases comprises over 209 acres and has been run since 1950 by the Delon Family. The current director is the well known Michel Delon.

Château Léoville-Las Cases produces arguably the most exotically perfumed wine in the Médoc and this can be partially attributed to the must being fermented at lower than average temperatures, which leads to its youthful aromatic richness being retained. Dark, intense and concentrated, Château Léoville-Las Cases is a tannic and richly fruity wine that takes over 10-15 years to mature.

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1982, 1986, 1995, 1996, 2000 & 2003.

Thanks

Wingcent
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com
Singapore

Château Leoville Barton

Château Leoville Barton

Château Leoville Barton lies between the towns of Beychevelle and Saint Julien, the estate's few buildings sit directly on the vineyard road, and the vineyards lie just to its west. The wine produced here was classified as one of fifteen Deuxièmes Crus ( Second Growths ) in the original Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855.

Château Leoville Barton, along with Château Léoville-Las Cases and Château Léoville-Poyferré was once part of the vast Léoville estate. Since 1836, the estate has belonged to the Barton family, of Irish descent. The current owner is Anthony Barton, who has run the estate, along with its sister property Château Langoa Barton, since 1986.

Two red wines are produced from the vineyards of Château Léoville-Barton, an eponymous grand-vin, and a second wine called La Reserve de Léoville-Barton into which is made from lots produced by younger vines or lots deemed lacking the quality of the grand-vin. After a hand picked harvest, fermentation takes place in temperature controlled wood vats for two to three weeks before being transferred into oak barrels ( 50% of which are new ) for aging before bottling.

A high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon makes this a rich and fruity wine with classic Saint Julien cassis-like flavor. In the top vintages, Château Leoville Barton is best about 15 years after the vintage.

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1982, 1985, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998, 1999 & 2005.

Thanks

Wingcent

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com

Singapore

Château Angélus

Château Angélus

Château Angélus is a winery in Saint-Émilion, in the Bordeaux region of France. Château Angélus wine carries the rank of Premier Grand Cru Classé (Class B) in the official Saint-Émilion Classification.

This Chateau was known as L' Angelus until the early 1990's when the owner decided to rename it simply, 'Angelus'. The reason was that in the computer age it was appearing on price lists under the L's rather than near the beginning of the lists ( in the A's ) as it had historically been placed. Among the largest of the Grand Crus of Saint Emilion, L' Angelus was for many years rather underrated. However, since Hubert de Bouard took control in the early 1980's, everything about the estate has improved -- most importantly, the wine. Today L' Angelus has a justifiably fine reputation.

The single 23.4 hectare block of vines is located on the pied de côte, on the lower part of the south-facing escarpment on a mixture of soil-profiles. On the upper reaches, the soil composition is sandy/clay topsoil above a clay subsoil and limestone bedrock with heavier clay down in the lower reaches.

A generous style wine with round mellow flavors and soft bouquet, it is much prized as a warm elegant Saint Emilion.

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1990, 1995, 2000, 2001, 2004 & 2005.

Thanks

Wingcent

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com

Singapore

Château Le Pin

Château Le Pin

Château Le Pin is a tiny vineyard located in the middle of the Pomerol plateau. Pomerol is on the right bank of the Gironde Estuary in the Bordeaux. There has never been an official classification of Pomerol. Even so, Chateau Le Pin commands prices that put it at levels equal to the best wines of Bordeaux. Le Pin was the first of the "garage wines" or micro-château that have become cult collector wines. These wines defy the traditional classifications.

Château Le Pin was first produced in 1979. This was the year that the Thienpont family ( wine merchants from Belgium ) purchased the property from Madame Laubie, whose family had acquired it in 1924. The name, Le Pin, comes from a solitary Pine tree that grows near the winemaking facility. Throughout the 1980's and early 1990's the wine became an icon of modern Bordeaux. Le Pin was soon challenging the supremacy of Pétrus not only in terms of price, but in terms of quality. Its scarcity, memorable name, its understated label, charismatic proprietor and most importantly quality, provided the rocket fuel for its meteoric rise into the élite in a handful of years.

This is a wine that is made more in the style of California and Australia rather than traditional Bordeaux. It is very 'fruit-forward' and has great richness. It is often described with words like exotic and hedonistic. The wines from Château Le Pin are medium in body with delicate tannins and a fruity finish. They tend to be accessible when young and peak at about 15 years after the vintage. These wines are very showy and tend to dominate food pairings rather than complimenting them.

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1982, 1989, 1990, 2000, 2001, 2005 & 2006.

Thanks

Wingcent

wingcent@singnet.com.sg

http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com

Singapore

Chateau Lafleur

Chateau Lafleur

Chateau Lafleur is a small, 10 acre estate located in the Pomerol appellation about 200 meters north of Chateau Pétrus and Chateau Lafleur-Pétrus. None of the Pomerol properties are classified, but if they were, this one would probably be equal to a Médoc Premier Cru (first growth). In some Vintages the quality of these wines exceeds even those from Pomerol's most famous château, Pétrus. Despite its diminutive size, there is a heterogeneous mixture of soil profiles, each lending their own nuances. The gravely soil contains a high ferrous content, with a high clay composition that lends it a geographical uniqueness that is somehow reflected in the wines.

Chateau Lafleur is known for its very generous aromas, depth of color, concentrated and rich flavors, and long finish. These wines can be dense, concentrated, and full-bodied and can age for 30 years or more. Because it's so small, Château Lafleur averages only about 1,000 cases of red wine each year. The wine's a combination of approximately 50% Cabernet Franc and 50% Merlot. For wines that don't meet its high standards, Château Lafleur uses the Second Label, Les Pensées de Lafleur.

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1945, 1947, 1949, 1950, 1961, 1975, 1979, 1982, 1985, 1989, 1990, 2000, 2003, 2004, 2005 & 2006.

Thanks

Wingcent
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com
Singapore

Château l’ Evangile

Château l’ Evangile

Situated on the plateau in the commune of Pomerol, Château l’ Evangile has always been considered among the first great growths of Pomerol. Located on the noble part of the Pomerol plateau between Pétrus and Cheval-Blanc, the vines grow on a soil and subsoil in which sand. In the earliest times of the estate ( up to the mid 1700's ), this property was known as Fazilleau.

In the mid 1800s the Chateau came to prominence under the name Chateau L' Evangile During this rise of fame, L' Evangile was owned by the Chaperon family It stayed in succeeding generations of their family until the Domaines Baron de Rothschild were brought in as partners. The Rothschild group finally purchased a controlling interest in the property in 1990.

The plantings are composed of 78% Merlot and 22% Cabernet Franc ( the local name for Cabernet Franc is Boucher ) planted at a density of 5,500 vines per hectare. The average age of the vines is 25 years. Chateau l'Evangile has two major soil types. There are the clay soils common to the plateau of Pomerol but also areas of gravel which are very unusual for Pomerol and much more common to the Graves region. The resulting wine is powerful, distinguished, and has an incomparably fine bouquet.

Have you get their collection yet ? Here was their Top Vintages of the wines : 1964, 1975, 1985, 1990, 1998, 2000 & 2005.

Thanks

Wingcent
wingcent@singnet.com.sg
http://mysignaturewines.blogspot.com
Singapore