Neal Bell's House
May 21, 2009
Neal's theme for this month's tasting was frivolity. He had also staged a competition between the Bunnell's and his namesake. More on this later. And, as luck would have it, neither Loren nor Greg were able to attend.
Both pre-tasting wines came from the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia. These were served blind in vessels only identified as Wine A and Wine B. The first was a 2006 Sandhill Pinot Blanc. The second was a 2007 SeeYaLater Chardonnay. Most thought the second came from Burgundy.
The first flight - Syrah. This included a 2004 Bunnell Syrah from Yakima Valley, a 2003 Twin Beaks Shiraz, a 2007 Carlisle Syrah from the Russian River Valley, and K Vintners 2006 Syrah from the Walla Walla Valley. The average scores for these wines ranged between 84 and 89 points with the Carlisle rated the highest.
The second flight - Cabernet Sauvignon. This flight included a 2003 Neal from Napa Valley, a 2004 Bell Wine Cellars Claret, a 1995 Caymus Special Selection, and a 1971 Mayacamas. All of these wines scored well about 90 points.
A more complete review is coming soon along with some photos.
To view the scoring, click here: Scoring
For Neal's summary, click here: Summary