January 2013: What are you drinking?

NV H. Billiot Fils Champagne Grand Cru Brut Réserve 1.5L

Water.

Tonight 1999 Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages.

quote:

Originally posted by Wineplease:
1998 Dom Perignon

How was it? I have one bottle only... when would you recommend that I open it?

2009 Stefania Cabernet Sauvignon Crimson Clover

2010 Lapierre Morgon

quote:

Originally posted by aagrawal:

quote:

Originally posted by Wineplease:
1998 Dom Perignon

How was it? I have one bottle only... when would you recommend that I open it?

The 98 DP showed very well.
I don't have much experience drinking aged champagne so I am not sure to answer your second question.
I will need other forumnites to help me answer that question.

2008 Rocca delle Macie Chianti Classico Riserva

Dzitt

quote:

Originally posted by Wineplease:

quote:

Originally posted by aagrawal:

quote:

Originally posted by Wineplease:
1998 Dom Perignon

How was it? I have one bottle only... when would you recommend that I open it?

The 98 DP showed very well.
I don't have much experience drinking aged champagne so I am not sure to answer your second question.
I will need other forumnites to help me answer that question.

I would strongly suggest sourcing a couple more bottles, if you are able to aagrawal. This is a vintage that drinks well now and will age gracefully, IMO. If you truly are limited to just one bottle and you are seeking the ideal sweet spot, that really depends upon Your idea of a Champagne's sweet spot. A point upon which you get more mature, softened, toasty nuances? I would guess 8- 15 yrs should put you approx in that zone. As you get closer you're sure to have feedback from others regarding how its doing along the way (as well as how you are storing your bottle). I doubt that I'm far off regarding a 'window' however.

1992 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley.
2006 Mitolo Shiraz Reiver.

Last night, Duval Leroy Champagne Brut NV.

Happy New Year, everyone!

2001 Cims de porters classic PRIORAT( drinking beautifully right now)

2 x 2002 Taittinger Comtes
2 x 2008 Ken Forrester The FMC
2 x 2007 Marcel Deiss Grasberg
2 x 2007 Domaine des Baumard Quarts de Chaume

All were good (the Grasberg) to great (the Comtes and Quarts) but the FMC was the most surprisingly good. Easily 93+ points for me and as good an off-dry Chenin Blanc as I’ve had.

Recent wines:

2006 Calera Pinot Noir Mills (half bottle) – Drinking really well right now with nice fruit and starting to show some mature notes at age 6. Tasty

2011 Calera Chardonnay Central Coast – Easy drinking white with nice crisp apple and some melon flavors. Not going to change your life, but for under $20 this is a real winner.

2004 Collazzi Toscana IGT – Drinking really well now and showing a bit more of an earthy nose and flavor than expected, but it was a welcome addition to contrast with the ripe fruit. Paired perfectly with some prime ribeye’s from the grill.

2011 Littorai Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast – I’m having a hard time keeping my hands off these. Really balanced and delicious with pure red fruits and a nice and zingy finish. Love this winery.

2002 Mongeard-Mugneret Echezeaux – This bottle was out of balance from the get go with a bit too much oak for me and the fruit was on the overripe/sweet side. Tasted more like a big CA pinot than grand cru burg.

2001 Arzuaga Gran Reserva

Forgot one:

2005 Rieussec – Pretty gross actually. This might be the nail in my sauternes coffin. They are just too sweet for me and I could barely manage a couple of sips of this wine. The sad part is it was paired with a really well prepared foie course, but it completely overpowered the dish. I’ve had success with foie and sauternes in the past, but I think I’m going elsewhere with that pairing in the future and no more sauternes for me. I’ve given it a good try, it’s just not for me.

Glenn, Sauternes from "great" vintages need a lot of time and can be cloying in their youth. I have seriously enjoyed young Sauternes from "off-vintages," even preferring them to the "great" vintages in their youth.

quote:

Originally posted by Mimik:
2001 Cims de porters classic PRIORAT( drinking beautifully right now)

Had this on NYE and a huge +1. Beautiful wine.

quote:

Originally posted by GlennK:
Forgot one:

2005 Rieussec – Pretty gross actually. This might be the nail in my sauternes coffin. They are just too sweet for me and I could barely manage a couple of sips of this wine. The sad part is it was paired with a really well prepared foie course, but it completely overpowered the dish. I’ve had success with foie and sauternes in the past, but I think I’m going elsewhere with that pairing in the future and no more sauternes for me. I’ve given it a good try, it’s just not for me.

Pater dimitte illis non enim sciunt quid faciunt.

quote:

Pater dimitte illis non enim sciunt quid faciunt

I love when you speak latin.

quote:

Originally posted by GlennK:
2005 Rieussec – Pretty gross actually. This might be the nail in my sauternes coffin.

Blasphemer! Cast of with ye, unclean spirit!

2006 Shea Pinot Noir Estate

2003 Château Saint-Pierre St. Julien Red Bordeaux Blend
2007 Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) Réserve Spéciale

2009 Soos Creek Sundance Columbia Valley

For an entry-level wine, this is pretty darn tasty. Round and polished with good fruit and spice, for $20.

quote:

Originally posted by billhike:

quote:

Originally posted by GlennK:
2005 Rieussec – Pretty gross actually. This might be the nail in my sauternes coffin.

Blasphemer! Cast of with ye, unclean spirit!

Haha. I know it’s not a popular opinion, but it’s just my opinion on sweet wines in general. I have tried many, including great vintages of d’yquem both young and mature, and I just don’t get them. I don’t have a sweet tooth for food either though. You will rarely see me order a very sweet dessert (or dessert at all) and I have not had a piece of candy since I was a kid. It’s just how my taste buds work I guess. More of the rest of you!

2006 Stefania Cabernet Sauvignon Santa Cruz Mountains
2006 Ledson Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
2008 Stoller Pinot Noir SV
2009 Vincent Arroyo Petite Sirah
NV Mumm Napa Brut Prestige

2010 Morgan Syrah Santa Lucia Highlands.

quote:

Originally posted by vinoevelo:
2010 Lapierre Morgon

How did this bottle show? I've been enjoying Lapierre's wines since the 2000 vintage and amazed at how consistent they have been. Not tried the 2010's yet but sitting on a few.

2004 Lazzeretti Bdm
2007 Domaine Des Senechaux CdP

2005 Vieux Chateau Certan

quote:

Originally posted by errestaurants:
2005 Vieux Chateau Certan

Where in the world have you been hiding?

We need to drink some wine together again, soon.

quote:

Originally posted by wine+art:

quote:

Originally posted by errestaurants:
2005 Vieux Chateau Certan

Where in the world have you been hiding?

We need to drink some wine together, soon.

Like you, wine is not my primary passion. Lifting weights has always been number 1 for me and I got away from it. Spent the last 2 years getting back into shape, dropped 45 pounds and trying to find balance. Between food, wine and work I became undisciplined. For me it's truly been about quality over quantity :;

2010 Domaine du Grand Coulet Chateauneuf du Pape

2010 donnhoff kabinett

I haven't posted my consumption in awhile, but here's what I've had in the past few weeks:
NV Charles Ellner Champagne Brut Rose
2009 Rivers Marie Pinot Noir Silver Eagle Vineyard
2008 Elk Cove Pinot Noir Shea Vineyard
2009 Barnard Griffin Merlot Reserve
2010 Booker Vertigo 22 Months
2011 Chateau Fontaine Woodland White
2010 Carlisle Zinfandel Martinelli Road Vineyard
2011 Chakana Malbec Estate Selection

quote:

Originally posted by mareff:
2004 Lazzeretti Bdm

how is this drinking now?

2000 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Rose
2007 Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon

1996 Peter Franus Cabernet-Sauvignon Napa

dzitt

quote:

Originally posted by GlennK:

quote:

Originally posted by mareff:
2004 Lazzeretti Bdm

how is this drinking now?

I think that this is in a great spot right now. Not too complex and the tannins are fully integrated so that they are subtle. Would not hold on too long.

NV Nathalie Falmet, Champagne
1997 Antinori, BdM, Pian Delle Vigne

2010 Donelan Pinot Noir Two Brothers

2008 Blason de Bourgogne Chablis

quote:

Originally posted by vinoevelo:
2010 Lapierre Morgon

How was this?

2001 Bouchard Pere & Fils Corton le Corton GC

quote:

Originally posted by max:

quote:

Originally posted by vinoevelo:
2010 Lapierre Morgon

How did this bottle show? I've been enjoying Lapierre's wines since the 2000 vintage and amazed at how consistent they have been. Not tried the 2010's yet but sitting on a few.

And Vinc..


Showed well, but showed best on the third day. Put on more weight the longer it had to breathe. Love lapierre and might be a bit biased. Told myself back in June to hide these and keep my hands off, but its been difficult.

quote:

Originally posted by vinoevelo:

quote:

Originally posted by max:

quote:

Originally posted by vinoevelo:
2010 Lapierre Morgon

How did this bottle show? I've been enjoying Lapierre's wines since the 2000 vintage and amazed at how consistent they have been. Not tried the 2010's yet but sitting on a few.

And Vinc..


Showed well, but showed best on the third day. Put on more weight the longer it had to breathe. Love lapierre and might be a bit biased. Told myself back in June to hide these and keep my hands off, but its been difficult.

Thanks Vinoevelo. I'll watch for Lapierre. It looks like some other 2010 Morgon are still in the system though. Maybe I'll try a one or two.

2010 Highway 12 Sonoma Red Blend

Real good for $16...

quote:

Originally posted by VinCentric:
2001 Bouchard Pere & Fils Corton le Corton GC

What did you think of this?

2004 Chateau Musar Hochar
2006 Tyrrell's Semillon Vat 1

2007 Siduri Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir.

NV Krug, Grande Cuvee
2010 Stefania, Nueva Casa de los Padres

quote:

Originally posted by steve8:
2010 Stefania, Nueva Casa de los Padres

I really enjoyed this on New Year's Eve. Great wine, and glad I have 3 more.

2001 Valdicava Brunello di Montalcino - in nice spot right now.

Some baby killing yesterday with gkapoor:

2009 Etienne Sauzet Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Champ-Canet –Overall I have enjoyed the style of the 2010 vintage over 2009 so far in Burgundy, but this was an excellent showing. Plenty of fruit on the palate but nicely balanced with a mineraly finish and nice acidity. Some 09’s have been overdone for me, but this was fantastic.

2009 Pontet-Canet – We opened this around noon and had a taste and then just let it slow o in the cellar until dinner. While obviously young this was surprisingly easy to drink with nice ripe fruit on the attack and really fine tannins that were not harsh at all despite its youth. No trace of alcohol to me which I have heard might be an issue for 09. Will be a blockbuster with some age, but it was enjoyable now if you want to pop one before it shuts down.

1999 Mouton Rothschild – Had a taste of this at the restaurant from one of those enomatic wine machines. More of a red fruit profile that is starting to show some age. Very enjoyable “classic” Bordeaux, but I wouldn't pay the going rate for this wine these days.

Fun night as always with gk.

quote:

Originally posted by Wine Canuck:

quote:

Originally posted by VinCentric:
2001 Bouchard Pere & Fils Corton le Corton GC

What did you think of this?

It started off somewhat light (understandable for the vintage) with underbrush and a bit of barnyard (which blew off). Nose and flavors were typical Beaune with underbrush, mushrooms, red fruit and a bit of smoke. After a couple of hours it put on some weight and was quite enjoyable. It's showing a bit of age but still has time to go. I'm not sure if it will improve from here, so I'd drink them if I had more 2001s. 89pts. It did make think that the 2006 I have should be excellent, and 2005 could be a good QPR.

Another liquid Friday afternoon celebrating a co-worker's birthday...

2005 Benjamin Bridge Brut Reserve
2004 Le Macchiole Paleo Red
1999 Domaine Beaurenard CdP Boisrenard
2007 Badia a Passignano Reserva
2005 Jonata El Corazón de Jonata

Very nicely done! I like the liquid Friday afternoon theme

How was the Boisrenard?

2009 Ridge Vineyards Zinfandel East Bench Dry Creek Valley

Pretty impressed of the alcohol (15,2%)

dzitt

2004 Pio Cesare Barolo.

quote:

Originally posted by VinCentric:
Very nicely done! I like the liquid Friday afternoon theme

How was the Boisrenard?

The 99 Boisrenard is in a good spot still but I don't know how many more years it has. My favourite wine was ths 04 Paleo, so everything pales in comparison.

2008 Relic Scarpa Syrah

2007 Hartford Court Fog Dance Vineyard

quote:

Originally posted by on the wine:
Another liquid Friday afternoon celebrating a co-worker's birthday...

2005 Benjamin Bridge Brut Reserve

How was this? Does it live up to the hype?

quote:

Originally posted by on the wine:

quote:

Originally posted by VinCentric:
Very nicely done! I like the liquid Friday afternoon theme

How was the Boisrenard?

The 99 Boisrenard is in a good spot still but I don't know how many more years it has. My favourite wine was ths 04 Paleo, so everything pales in comparison.

No surprise on the 04 Paleo! It would be a hard act for the others to follow. Glad to hear the Boisrenard was good. I had a 1990 a while back that was good but probably a bit past peak imo.

1995 Montosoli BDM

2007 Drinkward Peschon
2007 Pride Cabernet Franc

With some grilled dead cow last night, 2006 Stefania Uvas Creek Cab. In a very nice spot right now.

Some memorable ones:
1986 Quarts-de-Chaume, Chateau Bellerive, the oldest wine in my cellar, like frozen in time, has nit changed during the last years
1999 Chateau Rieussec, Sauternes
2005 Heritage de Thieuley, Chateau Thieuley, the first time i opened a 2005 Bordeaux, a totally understated "Appellation Bordeaux" from a true wine magician, thank you Mr. Francis Courselle.

05 Clio
09 shafer cab one point five
A Pinot made by J Phelps that I can't remember now but wasn't bad

quote:

Originally posted by redknife:
09 shafer cab one point five

I received this as a gift at Christmas - what did you think?

2x NV H. Billiot Cuvee Laetitia ( vintages from '83 - '05)

2005 Domaine Bertagna Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru

2005 J-P Fichet Les Referts Montrachet

2002 Domaine E. Sauzet Montrachet

1996 Domaine Bonneau du Martray Corton Charlemagne

Enjoyed at lunch yesterday.

quote:

Originally posted by wine+art:
2x NV H. Billiot Cuvee Laetitia ( vintages from '83 - '05)

2005 Domaine Bertagna Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru

2005 J-P Fichet Les Referts Montrachet

2002 Domaine E. Sauzet Montrachet

1996 Domaine Bonneau du Martray Corton Charlemagne

Enjoyed at lunch yesterday.

Burger King?

quote:

Originally posted by txgolfpro:

quote:

Originally posted by wine+art:
2x NV H. Billiot Cuvee Laetitia ( vintages from '83 - '05)

2005 Domaine Bertagna Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru

2005 J-P Fichet Les Referts Montrachet

2002 Domaine E. Sauzet Montrachet

1996 Domaine Bonneau du Martray Corton Charlemagne

Enjoyed at lunch yesterday.

Burger King?

Looks like a stellar selection of white burgs W&A - a great lunch! Did any really stand out from the rest? Any TN's?

Last night with roast duck - 2010 Kutch Pinot Noir McDougall Ranch. Way young, but I have 6 and wanted to get a gauge. I haven't even tried any of my '09s yet as I only have three of those.

quote:

Originally posted by txgolfpro:

quote:

Originally posted by wine+art:
2x NV H. Billiot Cuvee Laetitia ( vintages from '83 - '05)

2005 Domaine Bertagna Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru

2005 J-P Fichet Les Referts Montrachet

2002 Domaine E. Sauzet Montrachet

1996 Domaine Bonneau du Martray Corton Charlemagne

Enjoyed at lunch yesterday.

Burger King?

Not until they start serving lobster.

quote:

Originally posted by VinCentric:


2002 Domaine E. Sauzet Montrachet

1996 Domaine Bonneau du Martray Corton Charlemagne



Did any really stand out from the rest? Any TN's?

Easily the best that day.

quote:

Originally posted by thelostverse:
Last night with roast duck - 2010 Kutch Pinot Noir McDougall Ranch. Way young, but I have 6 and wanted to get a gauge. I haven't even tried any of my '09s yet as I only have three of those.

How was it? I have a couple

quote:

Originally posted by Bruce Hayes:

quote:

Originally posted by on the wine:
Another liquid Friday afternoon celebrating a co-worker's birthday...

2005 Benjamin Bridge Brut Reserve

How was this? Does it live up to the hype?

I certainly enjoyed it and I think it is a very good sparkling wine. But I could have found others just as good at a lower price.

Villar d'allen 20 yr tawny

Last night w/Tyees:

- Guy Charlemagne Champagne Brut Rose -- nice Pinot Noir nose and same on palate, lots of cherry, spice, excellent

- 2004 Dom. Weinbach Gewurztraminer Cuvee Laurence -- textbook roses and lichi, pear, white pepper, rich and silky, finishes long and, unlike a lot of other Gewurztraminers, very dry (Tyee called this "a wine connoisseur's Gewurz"), delicious

- 2002 Mommessin Clos de Tart -- blackberry, cherry, anise, mineral, shows more and more with every mouthful, velvety, a Great Wine still a few year from peak, long expansive finish, a Wow! wine, killer Burgundy!

- 1997 Allegrini Amarone -- some cheesy stank, lots of sultana raisin, milk chocolate, tar, big and powerful, long finish with big round tannins, probably drinking as well as it's going to but no hurry to get rid of these yet

- 1987 Fonseca Port Guimarens -- plum, cinnamon, sage, fig flavours, not a huge Fonseca but complex, rich, delicious and perfect for a rainy night

2007 Ridge California Santa Cruz Mountain Estate

dzitt

quote:

Originally posted by GlennK:

quote:

Originally posted by thelostverse:
Last night with roast duck - 2010 Kutch Pinot Noir McDougall Ranch. Way young, but I have 6 and wanted to get a gauge. I haven't even tried any of my '09s yet as I only have three of those.

How was it? I have a couple

This was quite nice. More of an elegant style than some full throttle Cali Pinots. I only opened one because I had six. If I only had a couple, I would wait on these. If in doubt, Jamie has a vintage chart on his site. As I indicated in my original post, I haven't opened any of my '09s yet.

quote:

Originally posted by thelostverse:

quote:

Originally posted by GlennK:

quote:

Originally posted by thelostverse:
Last night with roast duck - 2010 Kutch Pinot Noir McDougall Ranch. Way young, but I have 6 and wanted to get a gauge. I haven't even tried any of my '09s yet as I only have three of those.

How was it? I have a couple

This was quite nice. More of an elegant style than some full throttle Cali Pinots. I only opened one because I had six. If I only had a couple, I would wait on these. If in doubt, Jamie has a vintage chart on his site. As I indicated in my original post, I haven't opened any of my '09s yet.

Thanks!

Henrique & Henrique Madeira

2004 Wormeldange Koeppchen Riesling Série Art&Vin, Coopérative Vinsmoselle, Luxembourg
1999 Morey-Saint-Denis 1er cru Monts-Luisants, Charles Thomas
2002 LBV port, Quinta do Vale d. Maria

2005 Hugel Jubilee Riesling.
2007 Albert Boxler Gewurztraminer

2004 Wittmann Westhofen Kirschspiel Riesling Trocken

btl of nv henriot with breakfast.

oh and i mixed it with some OJ later

quote:

Originally posted by MoselleLuxemburg:

2002 LBV port, Quinta do Vale d. Maria

not something you see stateside very often at all!

how was this?

quote:

Originally posted by Seaquam:


- 1987 Fonseca Port Guimarens -- plum, cinnamon, sage, fig flavours, not a huge Fonseca but complex, rich, delicious and perfect for a rainy night

may i ask where you found this?

i'm missing this vintage in my many year vertical of fonseca =)

2010 Turley cabs
2008 Neal cabs

2008 Zarzanas, Spanish Crianza, a balanced Tempranillo, Syrach and Merlot grapes.

quote:

Originally posted by Spanishwinery.es:
2008 Zarzanas, Spanish Crianza, a balanced Tempranillo, Syrach and Merlot grapes.

An international WineSearcher inquiry indicates that there is only one supplier of this wine in the world.

Guess who??

How do you say douchebag en espanol??

PH

AP Vin Keefer Ranch 2008
Ransom PN 2009

quote:

Originally posted by PurpleHaze:
An international WineSearcher inquiry indicates that there is only one supplier of this wine in the world.

Guess who??

How do you say douchebag en espanol??

PH

Duchabolsa. Or duchabolso if the poster is male.

quote:

Originally posted by PurpleHaze:

quote:

Originally posted by Spanishwinery.es:
2008 Zarzanas, Spanish Crianza, a balanced Tempranillo, Syrach and Merlot grapes.

An international WineSearcher inquiry indicates that there is only one supplier of this wine in the world.

Guess who??

How do you say douchebag en espanol??

PH

PH, there is no translation; however, the term transcends all languages.

I dunno, futronic's word sounds pretty good. Or just el douchbago will work. Like anyone here is going to order some $8 Tempranillo blend to be shipped across the Atlantic anyway. Whatta tool....

PH

Last night a 2009 Cougar Crest Dedication Six from WA. All 5 Bordeeaux grapes plus a little Syrah. Nice, and it went will with beef bourgignon that some friends made at theeir house.

quote:

Originally posted by billhike:

a little Syrah.

I had this when in Washington and was thinking it was around 30% Syrah, but may be wrong.

Glad you liked it.

Actually I think you are correct on the higher percentage of Syrah. I stated it that way just to mention the 6th grape. We bought the bottle at the winery when out there a few months ago. My other half was more excited about how cheap they were selling barrel ends and staves for. Her brothers are woodworkers and the pieces we brought back will make a small table.

A special bottle of '97 Gruaud Larose that my son back back for me when he was in Paris.

I should mention, he bought it when he was 15 yrs old and on a school exchange in grade 10. He knew I liked wine and snuck it on the plane so his teachers didn't confiscate it.

A special bottle indeed and enjoyed by the whole family with grilled filet mignon, baked brussel sprouts and tossed Japanese salad.

quote:

Originally posted by DoktaP:
A special bottle of '97 Gruaud Larose that my son back back for me when he was in Paris.

I should mention, he bought it when he was 15 yrs old and on a school exchange in grade 10. He knew I liked wine and snuck it on the plane so his teachers didn't confiscate it.

A special bottle indeed and enjoyed by the whole family with grilled filet mignon, baked brussel sprouts and tossed Japanese salad.

Love it!

2005 Ridge Lytton Springs.

quote:

Originally posted by DoktaP:
A special bottle indeed and enjoyed by the whole family with grilled filet mignon, baked brussel sprouts and tossed Japanese salad.

quote:

Originally posted by PurpleHaze:
Whatta tool....

PH

2005 Ch. Quinault (375) Hard tannins shed. Good to see as more in the vintage become approachable. Plenty of time though.

2005 Gemma Giblin Barolo

Tasted a few '10 Chateauneufs tonight with the Sunday brown bag group. Small sample, but compared to the few '09s we tasted back in August or September, I definitely prefer the '10s. Young & tannic now, but have fruit & structure. Will be picking up '10s for the cellar.

2005 Ch Guiraud 375 with foie gras terrine.

quote:

Originally posted by NolanE:
2005 Ch Guiraud 375 with foie gras terrine.

The forbidden fruit here in CA.

2008 Moreau-Naudet & Fils Chablis 1er Cru Montée de Tonnerre - Very nice

quote:

Originally posted by PurpleHaze:
el douchbago will work.

Recently:
2009 Carte Blanche Chardonnay
2011 Loring Wine Company Pinot Noir Rosella's Vineyard
2001 Pertimali (Livio Sassetti) Brunello di Montalcino
1997 La Sirena Cabernet Sauvignon
2008 Walter Hansel Winery Pinot Noir The Three Rows

Tonight with roasted leg of lamb, honey dipped carrots and steamed green beans in butter: 2002 Dead Arm. yummy

- 2005 Alban Vineyards Syrah Reva

To celebrate the return of my nose to the land of the living:

1995 Vieux Telegraphe La Crau

Some grilled lamb chops, potatoes au gratin and some roasted brussel sprouts. It's good to be able to taste again....

The wine was absoultely lovely.

PH

2007 Ch Jas de Bressy CdP

2009 Chateau de St. Cosme, CdR, Les Deux Albion

With Tyee and Lady Tyee:

- 1996 Billecart-Salmon Champagne Cuvee Elisabeth Salmon -- I haven't had this in years and this wine seems not to have changed much from what I remember, copper in colour, deep cherry and berry nose, floral, rich palate of berries, citrus, mineral, creamy, silky, persistent but not overwhelming mousse, long finish, just a beautiful wine

- NV H. Billiot Champagne Cuvee Julie -- big fruit bowl nose, seriously effusive mousse, tastes very young and fresh, apples and roasted nuts, really terrific Champagne that suffered only in following the Cuvee Elisabeth

- 2005 JJ Prum Riesling Wehlener Sonnenuhr Goldkapsel -- maybe the most impressive mix of acidity and fruit that you'll ever put into your mouth, stunning; this wine will live happily and provide great pleasure for decades

- 1998 Dusky Goose Pinot Noir Rambouillet Vineyard -- from Oregon, a powerhouse that was still opening more after a couple of hours in decanter, great nose of cherry and baking spice follows on palate, some earthiness and anise kicks in as well, remarkably long, long finish. Needs time, but a great Pinot Noir worth looking for

- 1999 Chateau Gruaud Larose St Julien -- there's some nice cassis aromas and flavours here, but unfortunately hidden behind a leafy, almost green note, medium length finish, not certain whether this was an entirely sound bottle but definitely a disappointment

Found an older bottle of Burgundy in the cellar:

1993 Hospices de Beaune Cuvee Hugues et Louis Betault Premier Cru

Surprisingly fresh and delicious.

quote:

Originally posted by NolanE:
2005 Ch Guiraud 375 with foie gras terrine.

You need to take me somewhere for this on one of my next trips to Houston. I miss this stuff!

2010 Domaine Daventure, St Veran

2008 Belle Glos Taylor Lane PN- best wine ever from this winery, imo

2008 Dehlinger Estate Bottled Pinot

quote:

Originally posted by xhoser:

quote:

Originally posted by NolanE:
2005 Ch Guiraud 375 with foie gras terrine.

You need to take me somewhere for this on one of my next trips to Houston. I miss this stuff!

I actually had it at home. I'm not sure which restaurant has the best foie gras preparation. W+A?

quote:

Originally posted by Seaquam:


- 1998 Dusky Goose Pinot Noir Rambouillet Vineyard -- from Oregon, a powerhouse that was still opening more after a couple of hours in decanter, great nose of cherry and baking spice follows on palate, some earthiness and anise kicks in as well, remarkably long, long finish. Needs time, but a great Pinot Noir worth looking for

? 2008? I think the frist vintage of Rambouillet was 2006.

2004 Ramey Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay - Surprising vibrant with butterscotch and lemon curd flavors.

quote:

Originally posted by Longboarder:
2004 Ramey Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay - Surprising vibrant with butterscotch and lemon curd flavors.

My favorite vineyard of all the Ramey Chardonnays.

I opened an '07 with the latour67s and Board-Os last year that was fantastic.

2009 El Nido Clio.

quote:

Originally posted by Red guy in a blue state:

quote:

Originally posted by Seaquam:


- 1998 Dusky Goose Pinot Noir Rambouillet Vineyard -- from Oregon, a powerhouse that was still opening more after a couple of hours in decanter, great nose of cherry and baking spice follows on palate, some earthiness and anise kicks in as well, remarkably long, long finish. Needs time, but a great Pinot Noir worth looking for

? 2008? I think the frist vintage of Rambouillet was 2006.

Oops! Sorry-- it was 2008. Don't know what I was thinking.

I'm guessing a 1998 wouldn't need much more time, but first it would have to exist.

Tonight with gnocchi with carmelized onion and fennel, 2007 Nipozzano Chianti Ruffina, very nice wine that is drinking well now but will still see better days.

quote:

Originally posted by Longboarder:
2004 Ramey Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay - Surprising vibrant with butterscotch and lemon curd flavors.

Nice. I haven't had a Ramey Chard in ages!

quote:

Originally posted by Seaquam:

quote:

Originally posted by Red guy in a blue state:

quote:

Originally posted by Seaquam:


- 1998 Dusky Goose Pinot Noir Rambouillet Vineyard -- from Oregon, a powerhouse that was still opening more after a couple of hours in decanter, great nose of cherry and baking spice follows on palate, some earthiness and anise kicks in as well, remarkably long, long finish. Needs time, but a great Pinot Noir worth looking for

? 2008? I think the frist vintage of Rambouillet was 2006.

Oops! Sorry-- it was 2008. Don't know what I was thinking.

I'm guessing a 1998 wouldn't need much more time, but first it would have to exist.

No worries. Nice note - letting the 08s sleep peacefully. The 06 was dynamite. Absolutely love Dusky Goose.

quote:

Originally posted by KSC02:
I haven't had a Ramey Chard in ages!

Shame on you!

2007 Rhys Pinot Noir Alpine Vineyard

2010 Kirkland cabernet sav.

My father brought it over for dinner. Not bad, certainly better than some of the really cheap California cabernets. A cellar defender for a Tuesday night.

He said it was about $13 a bottle.

Dr. Heidemans-Bergweiler Spätlese - Graacher Himmelreich 2009

2010 Domaine Bernard Defaix Chablis with a nice seafood linguine

NV Veuve Monnier Brut Or reserve

robert sinskey 2006 late harvest pinot gris

1990 Il Poggione Riserva BdM

2011 Gothic Wine Pinot Noir Nevermore

Last night with mortal enemies:

2008 Castello d'Albola Chianti Classico

quote:

Originally posted by Longboarder:
1990 Il Poggione Riserva BdM

Any thoughts on this Longboarder? The 1990 Fuligni Riserva consumed with VinT, OTW, and Futronic was delicious over the holidays.

2003 Petrolo Galatrona - third time trying this wine and finally some complexity. IMO, it needs another couple years. But, it's already 10 years old...

quote:

Originally posted by mangiare:

quote:

Originally posted by Longboarder:
1990 Il Poggione Riserva BdM

Any thoughts on this Longboarder? The 1990 Fuligni Riserva consumed with VinT, OTW, and Futronic was delicious over the holidays.

2003 Petrolo Galatrona - third time trying this wine and finally some complexity. IMO, it needs another couple years. But, it's already 10 years old...

FWIW: Just took a quick look at the LCBO and SAQ and was amazed at the price disparity. LCBO selling the 2009 for $125, while the SAQ, still making a profit I am sure, has it for $98.25.

Wow.

quote:

Originally posted by g-man:
robert sinskey 2006 late harvest pinot gris

First I have heard of a late harvest PG. Sounds interesting.

2011 Bedrock Wine Co. Heirloom Wine Pagani Ranch

Last night at dinner with Allred and our wives:

N.V. Marguet Père et Fils Champagne Blanc de Noirs Brut Tradition
2008 La Fleur de Bouard Lalande de Pomerol
2009 WesMar Pinot Noir Hellenthal Vineyard
2002 Neal Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain Estate
2009 Match Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Butterdragon Hill

The Neal and Match were both in an excellent place last night. I even enjoyed the La Fleur last night.

quote:

Originally posted by Shaferguy91:
2011 Bedrock Wine Co. Heirloom Wine Pagani Ranch

Please share your thoughts on this wine.

quote:

Originally posted by Bruce Hayes:

FWIW: Just took a quick look at the LCBO and SAQ and was amazed at the price disparity. LCBO selling the 2009 for $125, while the SAQ, still making a profit I am sure, has it for $98.25.

Wow.

Funny, cheapest I have found this in Calgary is $135!! Some of the pricing out here is absolutely ridiculous.

2010 anthill chard

2009 Jean Michel et Laurent Pillot Mercurey en Sazenay 1er

quote:

Originally posted by VinCentric:
2009 Jean Michel et Laurent Pillot Mercurey en Sazenay 1er

Thoughts?

quote:

Originally posted by VinT:

quote:

Originally posted by VinCentric:
2009 Jean Michel et Laurent Pillot Mercurey en Sazenay 1er

Thoughts?

Light barnyard and red fruit on the nose. A bit tart/cranberry to start on the palate, plus red fruit. Light to medium bodied. Opened up nicely with the bit of barnyard blowing off, and the tartness softening up. Drinking nicely now. The fruit isn't as big on this as on some of the other 2009s I've tried but it's nicely balanced. I'd drink this one over the next couple of years.

99 Spottswoode
02 Insignia

quote:

Originally posted by nevada slim:

quote:

Originally posted by Shaferguy91:
2011 Bedrock Wine Co. Heirloom Wine Pagani Ranch

Please share your thoughts on this wine.

First Bedrock I've ever had. Very dark purple color. Lots of powerful flavor with a good finish. Reminds me of a Linne Calodo zin blend at a cheaper price.

Last night:
2008 Chasseur Pinot Noir Umino Vineyard

2010 Stags Leap Karia chardonnay

With Chicken Adobo tonight:

2006 Weinbach Altenbourg Gewurztraminer

Last night with complete strangers:

2010 Rust en Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon

South African cabs can do that to you.

2011 Chanson Montagny

2002 Château Montrose - Nice, but unexceptional
2002 Chateau Musar - oxidized
2005 Gemma Barolo Giblin - simple
2005 Giovanni Manzone Barolo Castelletto - simple
2008 Jonata Winery Todos - WOTN 1
2009 Domaine Bernard Baudry Chinon - Awesome funky WOTN 2

2010 St Innocent Freedom Hill Pinot Blanc. Great acidity and fruit for a cool vintage.

An over rated 08 Ramey Sonoma Syrah!

Last night with Memphis area wine guys at Cafe Society:

I brought a 2007 Chasseur Pinot Noir Rayhill Russian River Valley.

Last night w/VanCityWino and our ladies:

- NV H. Billiot Champagne Cuvee Laetitia -- a really excellent Champagne, complex and rich, lots of pear, ginger, white chocolate, roasted nuts, a bit spicy, good acidity, very long finish, even better than their Cuvee Julie to my taste

- 2011 Domaine Fouassier Sancerre Les Baronne -- very nice, apple and citrus, quite intense, perfect with fresh oysters

- 2007 Meo-Camuzet Morey St-Denis -- lovely nose of cherry, barnyard and herbs, silky, interesting mix of ripe cherry, mushroom and sage flavours with some sour cherry notes kicking in at the end, light in colour but long in finish, fine quality village wine drinking very well now

- 2001 Domaine Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee -- still dark, big nose of berries and some funky stank, lots of berry and plum flavour, garrigue, pepper, basil, rich mouthfeel, dense, long finish with some fine tannins at the end, excellent, can probably use a few more years to show all it has

quote:

Originally posted by Shaferguy91:
Last night with Memphis area wine guys at Cafe Society:

I brought a 2007 Chasseur Pinot Noir Rayhill Russian River Valley.

How was that? I have 1 bottle that I was looking at yesterday. Is there any point in waiting a bit longer to open it?

quote:

Originally posted by Seaquam:
Last night w/VanCityWino and our ladies:

- NV H. Billiot Champagne Cuvee Laetitia -- a really excellent Champagne, complex and rich, lots of pear, ginger, white chocolate, roasted nuts, a bit spicy, good acidity, very long finish, even better than their Cuvee Julie to my taste

- 2011 Domaine Fouassier Sancerre Les Baronne -- very nice, apple and citrus, quite intense, perfect with fresh oysters

- 2007 Meo-Camuzet Morey St-Denis -- lovely nose of cherry, barnyard and herbs, silky, interesting mix of ripe cherry, mushroom and sage flavours with some sour cherry notes kicking in at the end, light in colour but long in finish, fine quality village wine drinking very well now

- 2001 Domaine Pegau Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee -- still dark, big nose of berries and some funky stank, lots of berry and plum flavour, garrigue, pepper, basil, rich mouthfeel, dense, long finish with some fine tannins at the end, excellent, can probably use a few more years to show all it has

You truly drink well, Seaquam. A very intelligent selector of wines, and I'm sincere when I say this.

2001 Flaccianello
1993 Solaia

Finally! First wine of the year:

2010 Domaine Huet Le Haut Lieu Sec Vouvray

2007 Stefania Eaglepoint Ranch Syrah

- 2009 Didier Dagueneau Blanc Fumé de Pouilly (a different league of Sauv Blanc. I'll post some notes on this one.)

- 2008 Ridge Lytton Springs (Delicious)

quote:

Originally posted by mangiare:
2001 Flaccianello

What did you think?

2008 Rudius Napa Valley Cabernet

2009 Henri Prudhon & Fils Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Sur Le Sentier Du Clou (white)
2010 Henri Prudhon & Fils Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Les Frionnes

dzitt

2009 Domaine de la Janasse CdR

quote:

Originally posted by Shane T.:
- 2009 Didier Dagueneau Blanc Fumé de Pouilly (a different league of Sauv Blanc. I'll post some notes on this one

Have you tried the Silex or Pur Sang? If not, you should.

quote:

Originally posted by Shaferguy91:
Last night with Memphis area wine guys at Cafe Society:

I brought a 2007 Chasseur Pinot Noir Rayhill Russian River Valley.

Yes, great time and some pretty good wines opened as well. This is what I remember being opened last night.

2002 Maison Leroy Meursault: In a great spot with ample fruit and nice acidity to balance.
2006 Peter Michael (vineyard ?) This bottle had a slight hint of cork taint.
1986 Maison Leroy Volnay Santenots: Drinking at peak now; in fact, not going to get better. But, fantastic now.
2007 Chasseur Pinot Noir Rayhill Vineyard: Nice drinking this along the Leroy. Both wines good examples of their respective regions. This bottle got better with air. I would hold if I had any.
1997 Pertimali Brunello di Montalcino: This wine was decanted 1 1/2 hours and was still a baby. Great wine and my WOTN even though it showed so young. Wouldn't open unless given 3+ hours in decanter or 5 more years in bottle.
2002 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon: Another well made wine and another wine needing more time.