Tim SPEARS was in town last night for the Polaner tasting. He was pouring Magnums of CLOS MIMI from his library. Unfortunately I wasn't able to make the tasting, but met up with Tim at Cru in NYC for a glass of Port.

With some time to kill I started with a California Pinot. Below are my notes.

• 2003 Copain Pinot Noir Saisons des Vins l'autumn - USA, California
  Nose is filled with ripe binge cherry fruit which fill the glass. You can also make out some forest aromas and notes of wood. As I sit with the wine it takes on a very slightly stewed tone. The palate is medium and fruit filled as well. Iin time the palate begins to dry on the finish and the stewed fruit is moderatly apparent. Wine-searcher shows this wine for $16 which is definitly a bargain and casualy opening one during the week is certainly worth the small tariff. Am I spoiled by drinking vineyard designated $45 bottles of Pinot. Unfortunelty I think so, but I would consider trying this wine in a future vintage. (88 pts.)
  

• 1985 Taylor Fladgate Porto Vintage - Portugal, Douro, Porto
  Black in color with brawny big black fruit spice and cigar box notes. The palate has firmness with its beefy, rich style. Descent fruit with apparent alcohol. Finishes ok - I would reach for a Grahams in this vintage instead. (89 pts.)
  

Tim was a great dude and it was fantastic being able to sit down with someone as knowledgeable as him. I have yet to taste a Clos Mimi wine but after enjoying his conversation and hearing his progression as a wine maker, I look forward to it. Thanks Tim and next time I see you will be on the west coast.

Posted from CellarTracker!

Thanks for the TN on the Taylor, Jamie - it's similar to what I've read about it: a disappointing VP considering the vintage and the house. My single bottle of it will be opened soon.
Interesting comment regarding the Graham's, given the recent tread on it having VA or not.

Stevie,

If you are passionate about Port, I would recommend writing a letter to Roy Hersh who writes a free news letter all about Port as the focus (and sometimes Madeira). He is perhaps the most passionate person in the U.S. in regards to Port and his knowledge is immense. He is un-objective in his articles, he often interviews port producers, includes tasting notes, etc.

Roy scribs the e-newsletter on Port as I mentioned every few months and its called: FOR THE LOVE OF PORT. Currently the newsletter is sent to Port enthusiasts in 36 countries.

If anyone would like to become a recipient (at no charge) please email Roy Hersh === His email is PortoLover(AT)a o l.com and provide your:
* first and last name
* city, state or province, and country of residence (Do not send your home address).

Mention Jamie Kutch - as were good friends.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Jamie Kutch,

Jamie, thanks for the info! However, I already subscribe to his newsletter, and have exchanged emails on Port with him in the past - small world!

Stevie,

It most certainly is a small world - especially in wine.

Most of my friends in NYC and California are all from wine relationships (and I am not even in the business, - at least yet!!!) .

With the relationships I have cultivated over the years, last week I gave notice to my finance job here in NYC and currently I am embarking on a move to California to make about 150 cases of Pinot Noir in the 2005 vintage (mentoring under Michael Browne of Kosta Browne).
It's been a dream come true.

Small World Indeed.

Jamie, as I lurk on eBob I read about your venture in the World of Pinot over there: I'm glad I've got a chance here to offer you my concratulations, and best wishes that you'll be succesful!
Having started out a wine import company just a few months ago I can tell you that you're up for a stressful but rewarding time - but I did not quit my job (as there are bills to be paid...). Again, good luck - and should you need a Dutch importer in the future, remember me!

Thanks Stevie for the kind wishes and best of luck to you as well with your importing company. I hope to see you out of the shadows and posting on EBob in the future. - Jamie

Thanks as well...and time will tell!

Hello Jamie - good to see you over here. Please keep posting over here as you do good stuff on eBob.

I don't yet subscribe to Roy's publication so thanks for the info. I have a lot of time for Roy's opinion, as do most people.

Thanks for the warm welcome KillerB.
I look forward to it.
Going to dinner tonight with a friend in NYC for some California Pinot. I doubt you get much if any of what we are going to drink tonight in England but I will be back with notes tomorrow just the same. Drink well my friend.

Jamie

Welcome JK. Thanks for the info on For The Love of Port. I just sent the email.

note: you should edit your post and remove the complete email address as it may be mined by spammers ... post it as:
name AT aol DOT com

Thanks M.
I edited. Thanks for the advice.