Massoni, Barbera 2003 ($20)

Oh my God. A total steal. A total steal. Great balance and a very individaul and complex taste. Could help but think of olives while drinking this. This is beautiful wine, which if you can go to 6J's in Prahan to purchase, is a must-do.

Bleasdale, Frank Potts (Bordeaux Blend) 2005, Langhorne Creek ($28)

Drank this after the Quinto do Vallado and stamped on it from a very great height. Australian through and trhough with ripe fruit intensity. Again black fruits and a bit a plum. This felt even all over the mouth, had great smell. Drinking well now. Bleasdale wines are great.

Quinta do Vallado 2005, Douro, Portugal ($68)

Well, I got promoted at work so I splashed out. Pure touriga nacional. Dark in colour and full black fruit on the nose. Very concentrated particularly down the middle of the palate. Great focus. Worth $68. Dunno, not sure anyting is worth that, but it is a very good wine.

Toscar, Monastrell 2007, Alicante, Spain ($14)

Initial smell of plums, giving way in time for a bit of red berry fruit and some smokiness. On tasting then main thing I remember is a sourness to the taste. Not totally offensive - I did decide to carry on on drinking it rather than change the bottle, but equally, I don't think I'd buy this again.