Raided my brother-in-law’s cellar for one of my sister’s dinner parties. During a long diplomatic career, they received many bottles as gifts, their provenance long forgotten. I picked these (to me) unknowns because they had a bit of age and were, with the exception of the Crozes, from regions I seldom get around to.
2001 Petaluma Coonawarra 14.0%
50% Cabernet Sauvignon/50% Merlot. Plums, spices, coffee and a bit of poop. Raspy but pleasing tannins, helping the not-quite-sufficient acidity hold its own against salient but agreeable sweetness. Somewhat hollow mid palate, but nice enough.
1999 David Bruce Petite Syrah Central Coast 13.5%
Elegant nose of plums and blackberries. Chewy texture, light tannins, a bit more sweet than acid. Body more pleasing than the previous, but still a tad sweet.
1997 Buehler Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 13.5%
Epoxy and herb aromas, giving away no fruit. But lovely mouth feel, smooth, balanced, mature. Cocoa flavors and attractive tannins. Everything just right. Lovely, a jackpot wine.
1998 Delas Frères Tour d’Albion Crozes-Hermitage 12.5%
Poop, cloves and tar. Good acidity, decent weight. Parts all acceptable but the sum not particularly pleasurable.
