Tiny Bits of Red, Part 2: Port, Priorat, Cab

A few weeks back I shared some of the “short and sweet” reviews of red wines I’ve posted on the popular app Vivino over the years.  Following are three more quickies from Spain, Portugal, and Oakville, CA.

Barros Colheita Tawny Porto 1996
Average Vivino user rating — 4.2
Gary “wino 55” rating — 4.5
Average price: $50/bottle
“At first pour, this tawny caramel-colored beauty is heavy on the alcohol (22%). After 15 minutes in the glass, the alco-fog clears and the true character shines through. With flourless chocolate cake, this port has a velvety finish. Patience pays off.”

La Perla del Priorat Noster Templari 2007
Priorat, Spain
Average Vivino user rating — 4.2
Gary “wino 55” rating — 4.5
Average price: $30/bottle
“Beautiful nose with cigar box, smoky oak and black fruit notes. Cassis, black plum, black cherry compote notes on the palate with silky tannins make this a smooth companion for any meal. Enjoyed this with bison burgers on the grill. Outstanding value! Paid $30 for an obviously $50+ wine.” Note: May be extremely hard to find but worth the hunt.

Nickel & Nickel, John C. Sullenger Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Oakville, CA
Average Vivino user rating — 4.6
Gary “wino 55” rating — 4.8
Average price: $85/bottle
“Very well made, complex, silky tannins with syrupy dark fruits on the palate followed by long, dry finish. This could have cellared another 10 years.” Note: The 2007 is no longer available but later vintages are very highly rated.