TN: 2005 Caves Alianca Quinta dos Quatro Ventos

[Bob Parsons Alberta]

One of Caves Alianca top flight wines, believe Michel Rolland showed up but happily his influence is minimal in my opinion. Blend of the usual suspects, 12 months in new French and Russian oak.

14.5% alc, $25 Cdn, cellared two years, opened and decanted one hour.

Color. A previous bottle I tasted in a wine-tasting session was more a medium purple. Now with some reddish tones, just a hint of bricking on the rim.

Nose. Hints of black pepper, heady, black fruits, earthy, herbal. "Thought some brambleberry here" from across the table. Still showing some spice box scents.

Palate. Initial thought was dry, soft tannins, cherry, plum, earthy. Has a distinct Portuguese feel about it including some tobacco and tart tones plus some spice. Not that succulent, still needs some time I think.

[Andy Velebil]

believe Michel Rolland showed up but happily his influence is minimal in my opinion.

Bob,
Just curious as to what you aren't too keen on about his influence in wines?

[Bob Parsons Alberta]

I just happen to think that his style of wine is not to my taste.

[Andy Velebil]

I just happen to think that his style of wine is not to my taste.

Nor mine too. IMO he makes wines that are just too "over-the-top" for me.