Short notice lunch today with some of the guys at top steak place Mamou. Lots of wine available so my bottle of Blason d'Issan wasn't among the chosen ones. We did have leftovers of my Dr Loosen Bernkasteler Lay Kabinett 2009 which I opened for lunch yesterday. Consumed half the bottle and brought the rest to share today. As always, a very friendly Kabinett although this seemed to be a bit heftier than previous vintages.
Champagne Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill 1995 - My first time to try this highly-regarded Champagne although I've had the regular Pol Roger Brut before. Medium gold cast showing its maturity. Light coffee and nut flavors primarily. Lightish to medium in body, crisp, very clean and dry. Good length. I suspect there might be a bit more to gain with just a bit more aging. Good Champagne but honestly, I was not wowed. I think the reputation of this Champagne just built up too many expectations for me.
Beaulieu Vineyard George de La Tour 2006 - Popped and poured. I feared this would be undrinkable as the restaurant didn't have any decanters for us to use and so we couldn't get it aired properly. Black. Pencil shavings. Very rich, with a flavor that beautifully picked up the charcoal in the steak. Surprisingly soft. Very dry and a little minty. later on, some curry notes, coffee and hazelnut. Very complex, impressive and approachable although it can only get better with time. I stayed with this wine throughout lunch and only took sips of the other reds.
Chateau Montelena Estate 1991 - Heat on the nose. Some wet rag. Fruit seems to have faded leaving the acidity. Sour finish. I though this wine had seen better days although Noel seemed to think it was rather good.
Bodegas Riojana Vina Albina Gran Reserva 1998 - Very good nose, fragrant, sweet, slightly woody. Suffered a bit coming as it did after the BV. Lean, traditional Rioja style.