WTN: Wines with ham

[David M. Bueker]

Dinner at a friend's house last night. Ham was the dinner choice along some bacon wrapped scallops, so I am well pigged.

NV Taittinger Rosé Champagne
Very pretty color. Light strawberry fruit on the nose with some toast. Very correct on the palate. Not the most interesting Champagne but a good sip for casual conversation.

2007 St. Urbans-Hof Leiwener Laurentiuslay Riesling Spatlese
This is surprisingly dry in style, as despite its initial hit of sweetness on the front end it finishes completely dry. There's a bitter edge to the citrus fruit flavors as well that accentuates the dry impression. Very good with the ham.

2007 Wind Gap James Berry Vineyard Grenache/Syrah/Mourvedre
Rather dusty & not particularly fruity. I think the ham did it zero favors, but still an odd showing. I will have to revisit this wine soon. It wasn't all that much fun on its own either. Strange.

Warre's 10 Year Tawny Port 'Otima'
Lots of red fruit, no spirit issues. A pleasant after dinner sip.

The Otima is a nice enough Port and IMO comes in a stylish bottle and at an affordable price. And best of all, it is available in a 500ml bottle - great size. The 20yo Otima is, however, a huge step up - not anymore just a nice sweetie but something worth a little contemplation.