Two for Fathers Day and Beyond!

[Nick Anthony]

Greetings from Catawba Island!

It's Father's Day and I just received a call from my son Mark who is playing a tour with the USO in Kosevo at Camp Bondsteel. All is well and the troops were in great spirits although it rained just prior to the show.

Diane and I had a wonderful time with our friends Dan and Marie last night and enjoyed a couple of wines worth noting. First was the 2004 Veramonte Primus from Chile that has received great reviews including a 90 point rating from Wine and Spirits. A blend of three grapes, the Carmenere (almost lost in Europe since the 1880's Phylloxera outbreak is one of Chile's signature varietal) 23%, Cabernet Sauvignon at 30% and 47% Merlot.

A huge nose of blueberries and black cherry is met with a deep ruby color and a thick, supple, ripe style of blueberries and fig with a touch of dark chocolate. This wine really stood up to the New York Strips and redskin potatoes. At 17.99 a great bargain but sold out on a few web sites like wine.com. I think the 90 points is a bit high but an 89 for sure and a nice QPR. (bought on sale for 14.99!)

The second was a Shiraz from McLaren Vale in Eastern Australia, the 2005 Tinterra Shiraz.

This big jammy South Australian Shiraz packs a big flavorful palate of Plums and black cherries with a little mushroom and oak and a long finish. This is one that needs a little time to decant but is worth the time as it opens up beautifully. Wine and Spirits gave this one a 91, again a bit high but it's 89 points and at 18.99 is a nice buy. If you love the big jammy Aussy Shiraz (as in razz-a ma-tazz) then this one is for you.

What could be better, a great dinner with friends, two fantastic wines, and an unexpected Father's Day call from overseas. Life is good!