We were very pleased to learn that one of our favorite haunts, Je Suis Gourmand, which closed last year, has been resurrected by Chef Marc Aubry as Champetre. The menu still has all the old favorites and aside from some minor renovation, the place is pretty much the same, with the same staff as well. Although only open for about 2 weeks now, we enthusiastically agreed to have a wine lunch there as suggested by Rene.
Krug 1998 - While the guys usually defer to me in bringing Champagne, I readily agreed to give way to Noel when he announced he would bring a Krug. Medium gold. Very dry and austere. Touch of tobacco. Seems extremely young. I have no doubt this has a long life ahead of it. I had a taste towards the end of lunch, about 2 hours after it was popped open and it did appear to develop a bit more. Deeper flavor with very light coffee and nutty notes coming through. I'd wait at least another 5 years before trying this again.
Domaine Tempier Rose 2009 - I've had several vintages of this wine dating at least from the early 2000s and I can say that this was definitely the finest Temper Rose I've had. In fact it's probably the best rose I've tasted. Mellow, ripe fruit without any heaviness at all. A real pleasure.
Gros Freres Grand Echezeaux 1982 - From Richard. Woodsy, forest floor, mushroom. Sweet fruit. Very youthful. Touch of smokiness. Lovely wine that seems far, far younger than its age.
Marques de Murrieta Ygay 1970 - Served blind by Jojo, of course. I was getting some Rhone-like aromas but the bottle was the wrong shape. The others did guess old Rioja. A little musty at first but later, sweet, caramel aromas. A little pruney but otherwise, it was pretty impressive for a wine of 41 years.
Chateau Montrose 2000 - Very dark. Surprisingly soft. Full and a little syrupy. Needs more time to develop some complexity. At this time, lacks excitement for me. Maybe another 3 to 5 years will open it up.
Chateau Coutet 2003 - Classic Sauternes nose. Certainly not a blockbuster in terms of weight or sweetness. Strikes a good balance which makes it an easy drink. Very good.