by Ray Johnson | Apr 16, 2010 | Bordeaux, France, Margaux, Pauillac, Pomerol
Chateau LaFleur-Gazin 2005 The sweetness of the fruit in this Pomerol is rather fetching, possessing a liquer-like character. In the mouth it is supple and fruity, with plums and cassis on a velvety palate. The flavors linger with the acidity- very nice. The property...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 16, 2010 | Alsace, France, Pinot Blanc
Lucien Albrecht, Alsace, Pinot Blanc, Cuvee Balthazar 2008 The nose features flowers and minerality. In the mouth the fruit has a candy-like character, framed by acidity. The body is light and augmented by a little creaminess. Balthazar Albrecht settled in Orschwir in...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 16, 2010 | Aperitif, France
I was delighted to find this aperitif during our recent trip to Bordeaux. While in a little grocery store buying some essentials for the apartment, I had to check out the wine section and low and behold, St. Raphael. St. Raphael, Rougue, nv There is a strong sense of...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 15, 2010 | Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, France, Graves, Merlot, Pessac-Leognan
Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, Pessac-Leognan 2006 The smells in the nose include raspberries, cherries, leather and the sweetness and toastiness of oak. In the mouth it is earthy and smoky, exhibiting complexity and a supple texture – very approachable. The grapes...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 12, 2010 | France, Loire Valley, Sancerre, Sauvignon Blanc
Domaine André Vatan, Sancerre, Les Charmes 2008 The nose features grass, lemon, minerality and perfume. In the mouth it is bracing with a sense of freshly sqeezed lemon juice – very nice. André Vatan is a generous and gregarious man who also makes wood aged...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 2, 2010 | Bordeaux, France, Late Harvest White, Sauternes, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, White Dessert
Chateau d’Yquem, Sauternes 2005 From the start, the nose features a complex mix of honey, vanilla, appropriate volatility, creme caramel and dried apricots. In the mouth it is broad and viscous, a wine whose texture is luscious. With time, the fruits pop out,...
