Formal Hall

Chateau Montus Cuvee Prestige, Madiran, 2000
B+

Feels old and farmyard, rustic, earthy notes, not much by way of fruit there, quite burnt and hot, smoky bacon, savoury. Tannins still haven't fully resolved itself, still a bit of grip in places. Where is the fruit? Acid and tannins there, but no fruit. Done a good deal of aging, so don't think it will improve much with time.
On opening, it was a decidedly poor wine, but after some time in the glass, it tremendously improved, flexing its muscles, much more expressive. The tannins even slightly gave way. Probably needed some decanter time, its shame it didnt have a chance to fully show what it was.

Katnook Estate Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Oddbins. A-(+)

Full on, dark fruits, classic new world cab sauvignon, berries, currants, pastilles, touched of mint. Good filling mouthfeel, generous, wide. Still good acidity and grip, though. With some air time, really opens and softens. Good food wine, class, will early keep easily five years.

Kapellenhof Riesling Beerenauslese 2008.
A-

Light honey, really, in a glass; plenty of candied sweetness, with good acidity running through it. A touch of bitterness at the back, showing the botrytis. Excellent example of a lighter beerenauselse, and will partner any light, fruit-based desserts.