2006 Emilio Rojo, Ribeiro:
The floral elements of this wine are captivating; an entire garden of wild flowers growing beside a white-water stream; viscous in the mouth but not weighty with white flesh fruit and mineral accents and very good length. About as appealing a wine as imaginable.
2005 Pieropan, Soave
More weight in the mouth than is usual for this bottling (almost La Rocca size) with honey tones and bright acidity. Hold this for more flavorful dishes that require white wine. Nice.
2005 Philippe Faury, St. Joseph
A complete wine; blackberry, tar, pine oil smells and flavors that are straight-forward but also poised and subtle. Beautifully textured and balanced syrah that should be the envy of this appellation.
2003 Dom. Tempier, Bandol La Migoua:
Decanted four hours; game smells and flavors compliment ripe fruit with accents of fresh turned soil and fresh herbs; fine grained in the mouth with flesh, structure and weight yet still balanced and integrated. A big wine but not out-sized and terrific with pizza.
2006 Drouhin, Chablis:
Village Chablis with character, concentration, a steely delivery and good length. Pretty hard to find good chardonnay under $20, this bottle was more than worth it.
2006 Chat. Grande Cassagne, Costières de Nîmes Rosé:
Very full flavored and very dry – two things I demand of rosé. Stands up to refrigeration well and is balanced and friendly even as it warms in the glass. $5, on sale.
2005 Erath, Pinot Noir
Clearly from Oregon with its pale cherry color, underbrush and cherry scents and elegant mouth feel; nonetheless, solid fruit flavors and some hummus accents with a light mineral undertone. Pretty – a ‘little’ wine but also a nuanced one.
Best, Jim
