WTN: 2001 Blankiet & 2001 Sloan

Finally shaking off a cold, it was time to enjoy some wines. We started off with an 04 Aubert Ritchie that is showing nicely, but I have no notes. We also had a bone dry Cali Gewurzt ... but I don't remember what it was. But it was very nice ... but very dry.

• 2001 Blankiet Estate Merlot Paradise Hills Vineyard - USA, California, Napa Valley
  Drinking fairly well but still young. There shouldn't be any hurry to drink this. Quite angular. Nice flavors and not as bold or thick as I expected it. Tannins are present but become transparent with the food. A little bit light through the mid palate but a lot of stuffing up front and through the finish. I would like to try this again in 5-7 years.
  
• 2001 Sloan - USA, California, Napa Valley
  Where the Blankiet showed a lot of potential ... I am not sure what this showed. I guess you could say it is sloppy and over ripe. I was surprised that it did show slightly better with food but this is not my preferred cup of tea. Similar to prune juice but I think it is slightly more expensive.

I think across the table, the Blankiet was clearly the preferred wine.

Cheers,

Jason

Weekend wine with the family???? All I can say is your step dad has one heck of a cellar....the Aubert is the `house' white, if I remember correctly...

[Jenise]

I've had one Sloan cabernet. One was enough. Overripe and sweet, possibly the sweetest California cabernet I've ever had. How and why it commands the prices it does is beyond me. Glad you're feeling better.

.the Aubert is the `house' white, if I remember correctly...

It usually is, although I picked up a big batch of Dehlinger. I think he needs to let the Auberts get a bit older.

Jason