Syrah and Aussie

Dinner at home.

1995 Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonniers - this came highly recommended by Parker at 95 points. Pretty disappointed! At first it was very chalky, not pleasant. With time the fruit core came out, pretty sweet, nose of smoke meats. I think it just needs lots of time to breathe before drinking.

Bought from Farr for GBP 20.

1997 Penfolds RWT - this was the first vintage. Everything I expected from Penfolds for a new-style shiraz - full of coconut and caramel, with smoked meats at the same time. The typical Aussie shiraz nose of strawberry and cotton candy. I liked this.

Bought for HKD 530.

1996 Joseph Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot - very sweet as usual, thanks to the amarone style. Everything as expected.

Bought from Oaks for SGD 66.50.