SPOT.ph's resident wine nerd Andrej Wisniewski gave us his recommendations for three of the most interesting picks of the lot (2009 list follows afterwards):
Château Lagarette Cuvée Renaissance 2003 (P3,015) This Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a little Malbec was a standout. This wine displayed a pleasant balance of berries, earthy and herbal flavors that changed with the finish. French wine fans will especially enjoy the structure and tannins which paired well with the roasted lamb. What was really interesting is the idea of biodynamic farming espoused by the winemakers, Olympe and Yvon Minvielle. It shows that vintners can indeed create impressive, full-bodied, and complex wines which are organic and biodynamic.
Domaine Elian Da Ros Côtes du Marmandais AOC 2007 (P950) The most surprising wine of the night came from a place I've never heard of. Marmande is in Southwest France and only an hour from Bordeaux. Winemaker Elian Da Ros's organic blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc was approachable, highly refreshing, quirky, and mysterious, such that I kept coming back to taste it. I am guessing it was the addition of Abouriou, a vigorous, tannic grape used primarily in wines from this area. I suggest tasting a bottle just for the fun of it.
Domaine Bott-Geyl Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Sonnenglanz 2005 (P2,940) From this highly-regarded, "nearly" organic Alsatian producer comes one of their best bottles. This Gewurztraminer comes from grapes in Bott-Geyl's dry Sonnenglanz vineyard. The result is a rich, luscious wine with overwhelming honey and fruit flavors. The texture is almost oily (common in Alsace) and the finish turns slightly bitter but everything works well together. Medium-bodied with some residual sugar. This would be great served quite cold.
Others worth tasting include a robust, fruit-forward Clos du Caillou Les Quartz 2007 (P1,995) from Rhône and three velvety blends from Pomerol, especially the Clos Plince Pomerol 2005 (P3,200). Felicitations to Sommelier Selection for bringing in these fantastic wines.













