2006 Fillaboa, Albariño Monte Alto:
12.5% alcohol; an almost peppery nose with white fruit, citrus, brown spice and a sweet resin quality, expansive; that same spiciness in the mouth with solid fruit, spice and mineral flavors, oily intensity, weightless and perfect balance; good sustain. Grapes from a single vineyard at elevation.
As this gains time in the cellar it is becoming more intense and flavorful. Similar to the Do Ferreiro, Cepas Vellas bottling.
When you can find it, about $20.
Excellent with ‘green’ rice and roast chicken.
Thanks Victor.
2005 Clos de la Roilette, Fleurie:
13% alcohol; as though good wine that is representative of its place were concentrated into a broth; a worsted texture, strong flavors and aromas and lots of length. Bigger than most Fleurie but also balanced and intense. Nice wine at the beginning of its life.
2005 Edmunds St. John, Syrah Bassetti Vnyd.:
14.2% alcohol; decanted off some sediment; closed on both the nose and palate but some blueberry/blackberry fruit gets through along with meat, floral and pepper tones; concentrated and grippy. Needs a decade in the cellar and has the structure and fruit to go longer.
Steve once mentioned that he thought this was the best syrah he ever made . . . and that is saying something. So, wait I shall.
More generous with pizza.
2002 Cazin, Cour-Cheverny Cuvée Renaissance:
12.5% alcohol; served with a dish that included cabbage, tofu and peanut sauce (part of the sauce was vinegar), this came across as a bit thin; when the rest of the bottle was served with cheese, it took on weight and dimension; its sec-tendre with very nice fruit, clean, pure and much longer than anticipated. Interesting, but not fascinating.
Best, Jim