Grenache Vermentino Pays des cotes de Thau 2011 (France)

Nose: citrusy; grapefruit; vanilla

Taste: floral, quite tangy. Fruity, but not in a sweet way.

Finish: Pretty dry - it sticks on your tongue in the sour spot. Almost a bit bitter at the end.

What we say: S - 'It tickles.'  SS - A bit grapefruity-floralness. Maybe it's grapefruit blossom. It has a bite to the end of it that makes it not quite easy drinking.'

What they say: Nuttin'


Rate:  6.5 (V=6, S=7, SS= 6.5)

Mezquiriz La Mancha Tempranillo 2008 (Spain)

Nose: Strong and oaky, with a slight fruitiness.

Taste: Woody/oaky flavour, with a little bit of sweetness. Reasonably high in tannins.

Finish: Really light in comparison with the initial taste.

What we say: S - 'It reminds me of church. Definitely pencil-crayon.'

What they say: Strong and fruity bouquet.

Rate: 4

Marquis de St. Vincent Médoc Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 (France)

Nose: Oak; dark red berries

Taste: Smooth; dry

Finish: Bitter - the tannins really bloom in the finish. Peppery. The finish really lingers.

What we say: It's so middle of the road, we have no comment.

What they say: Aromas of red fruit and cores. Well-balanced. Structured and fruity. Will seduce you (!).

Rate: 4