2007 Dettori, Bianco:
A curious skin-fermented vermentino from Sardinia; starts out somewhat oxidative and aldehytic but, like many skin-fermented whites, gets much better with air and all of the oxidative notes disappear and the aldehydes calm; in addition, the complexity amps up and the finish lengthens.
With spaghetti with sardine, herb and olive oil dressing (and other Sardinian delights), wonderful.
1972 Vogue, Musigny:
I only got a small taste; the wine was pretty and balanced in the mouth but the fragrance was truly lovely – perfume wants to smell this charming. For a vintage one hears little of, a very fine wine.
Thanks Eric.
2001 Hirtzberger, Riesling Hochrain:
Poised and yet full of sweet flavors and smells that led me down different paths, all of them worth treading. In a good place, much as the 2001 Singerriedel is from this producer and an example of why I love Austrian Riesling.
Thanks Eric.
2006 Do Ferreiro, Albariño Cepas Vellas:
After losing a bit of faith in this bottling by virtue of recent tastings of the 2007, I find myself eating crow; and what better wine to match. A smoky, briny, mineral and spice driven nose; full fruit, some tannin, excellent complexity and a vinous delivery that follows along the notes in the nose; intense, concentrated, nearly oily, and certainly savory; extended finish. A wine that reveals itself only at room temperature. Pretty . . . damn . . . good!
2010 Grey Stack, Chardonnay (unoaked)Bennett Valley:
13.8% alcohol; clean, crisp, correct chardonnay with some depth, no artifice and no wood smells or flavors; reminds me of a good Chablis, especially as it approaches room temperature. A chicken Caesar salad is all the better for it.
This is what Wente clone chardonnay, from 25 year old vines, should taste like.
N/V Dom. Chandon, Étoile Brut:
13% sparkling; almonds, apples, honey and yeast aromas; clean and refreshing, small bubble bead, nicely complex with flavors like the nose and a stone element; bright finish. I know little about bubbly but I sure liked this. A house-warming gift from neighbors – discerning neighbors.
Excellent with assorted cheeses.
Best, Jim