by Ray Johnson | Nov 13, 2007 | Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Cotes de Provence, France, Grenache, Mourvedre, Provence, Rhone Blend, Syrah
Jade Mountain California La Provencale 2004 Previous notes show the wine as complex and oaky though the 2nd bottle earlier in the year seemed a little alcoholic. Tonight’s bottle is very supple again and I don’t think most people would notice the alcohol....
by Ray Johnson | Nov 13, 2007 | France, Gigondas, Grenache, Rhône, Rhone Blend
Domaine Les Pallieres Gigondas 2003 This has been a consistent performer at a more affordable price than the well-made Brunier wines from CDP. The last bottle tasted earlier in 2007 was good again, but the tannic astringency at that time seemed out of balance with the...
by Ray Johnson | Nov 13, 2007 | Bordeaux, France, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon
Chateau Guiraud Bordeaux Vin Blanc Sec 2005 The last bottle tasted in early 2007 was very fresh, combining high acid with depth of flavor. This bottle was on target again, with roundness to complement the acidity. Sourced from vines with an average age of 15 years,...
by Ray Johnson | Nov 12, 2007 | Chenin Blanc, France, Vouvray
Régis Cruchet Vouvray Sec 2005 The last bottle tasted earlier in the year was rather evolved yet still possessing the textbook acidity. Perhaps it was one bottle where the cork didn’t hold in the SO2 effectively. No, again we see this premature evolution and...
by Ray Johnson | Nov 12, 2007 | Burgundy, California, Chablis, Chardonnay, Gevrey-Chambertin, Napa Valley, Rully, Volnay
Vincent Girardin Rully 1er Cru Les Cloux 2005 Very nice. Vinifié, élevé et mis en bouteille a Meursault 13.5% $24.99 at K&L Vincent Girardin .com Chateau Montelena Napa Valley Chardonnay 2005 My notes from previous bottles of the 2004 and 2005 consistently note...