Short stuff

[Florida Jim]

2002 Domaine Tempier, Bandol Rosé:

Lovely aromatics of bleach, warm berries and pomegranates with a hint of mineral; fairly viscous in the mouth with flavors that follow the nose, good intensity, some concentration, crisp and excellent balance; medium length, clean finish. Really quite good.

2002 Shelton Vineyards, Syrah:

From the Yadkin Valley in NC this smelled like Crozes but was under-ripe, thin and over-oaked. Not for me.

2003 Rubens, Tempranillo:

Black fruit and earth on the nose; full bodied, rich, worsted texture, flavors follow the nose, good concentration and balance; long, gritty but not drying finish. Excellent with pizza, excellent without. About $7 and ready now.

2003 Protocolo, Rosé:

Copper colored; floral and fruit nose and nicely tart with solid flavors and a medium finish. Easy to drink, especially at $5.

2003 Bodegas Emeterio Fernández, La Legua:

A crianza tempranillo that hums along in both the red and black fruit register with good concentration and balance and a smooth mouth-feel. Finishes with a little extra spice. Another fine $8 bottle and dandy with grilled pork chop.

Best, Jim