Some highlights from a wine group pot luck dinner last night
Gaston-Chiquet Champagne NV 'Carte Verte' (magnum)
Deep fruit - red fruit with a youthful yeastiness and a finishing kick of citrus. It was certianly moreish, as the magnum disappeared quickly. Disgorged in late 2010 for those who care about such things.
1982 Dom Perignon (magnum)
Entering its late life. Still some apple-y fruit, but more in the way of toast, caramel and nuts. Very delicious if you are a fan of older Champagnes. Another magnum that was gone too soon.
1996 Krug
A little more advanced than I would have expected, but shows incredible breed and finesse. Apples and toast, great delicacy to the mousse. Delicious, though I have had much better (otherwordly) bottles.
1970 Sandeman Port
Decanted for several hours, this was perfectly integrated and showed some lingering cherry fruit to go along with its expected nutty and spicy character. Delicious and much too easy to drink.
Some other very nice wines (2007 Coudelet de Beaucastel, 1995 Zind-Humbrecht Riesling Clos Windsbuhl, 2009 Rhys Pinot Noir Santa Cruz Mountains) were largely overshadowed by the four above.
