Domaine Robert Michel La Gaynale Cornas 2002. Yum. I know 2002 is not suppoosed to be a fantastic Rhone vintage, but...we all enjoyed this. Somewhat light in color, as might be expected for 2002? The nose is quite powerful-black pepper, raspberry, and maybe somewhat "lifted" if I am using the term correctly. The palate is lighter-the raspberry is definitely there, but this is not a fruity California wine. Definitely some black pepper. The acidity is interesting-it hits the mid palate as well as the front of the mouth! Quite a bit of earthy and meaty notes. Tannins pretty much resolved, and the wine was in no way closed down. This might have evolved further, but it was drinking mighty fine right now! 17/20 Expensive-but worth it? I might buy more, but I need to economize on my spending!
Purchased at Terroir in SF. Chanrion Domaine de la Voute des Crozes Cotes de Brouilly Beaujolais 2006. Too light for braised ribs? Nah-this is a rich and perfectly delicious wine for a winter evening. Blackberry and raspberry is dominant. A delicious blast of acidity on the front of the palate. Delicious savory finish that doesn't subtract from the fruit at all. Although the Cornas somewhat overshadowed the wine, given the price and hence QPR, this was an awful nice drink-even brand new like this. I will buy more at $15 or so! 16.5/20