Short notes from lunch with usual degenerates and Lester at Pepato.
Lester was in a bit of a hurry so although we had a white chilling in the bucket, he almost immediately had his bottle opened as soon as he got to the restaurant.
Geoff Merrill Mc Laren Vale Merlot 2006 - Earthy, stinky, sweaty, rubber. Sort of like a cross between Rhone and South Africa as far as the aroma goes. On the palate, chocolate and coffee. Soft tannins. The level of acidity seems rather high and became more pronounced as the wine aired. Not to my taste.
I was pretty sure everyone would bring a red so I volunteered for the white and dessert if anyone cared for it after lunch.
Leeuwin Art Series Chardonnay 2004 - Fragrant, floral notes on the nose. Gentle and creamy. Lovely balance. Lightly oaked and smoky. There's a touch of sweetness provided by the ripe fruit. Very good to drink now.
Back to the reds after the Leeuwin.
Chateau Clinet 2004 - Leather and dark chocolate. Quite full-bodied. Very tannic. Not too expressive at this stage. This should really be left alone for a couple of years.
Reserve de la Comtesse 2003 - Again, the chocolate notes. Soft and dry. Seems at peak now. Easy to drink and very good.
Chateau Angelus 1999 - Classic Bordeaux aromas of pencil shavings and cedar. Deep and complex with sweet, ripe fruit. Still a baby, though. Will certainly get better but very good now.
Chateau L'Evangile 1995 - Very sweet, ripe fruit. Slightly earthy. Soft. Excellent wine at peak now.
Next tasting lined-up is another over-the-hill event.