My folks were up for the weekend in advance of my 40th borthday on Monday the 22nd. We did some damage on Thursday and Friday, but last night was the main event.
We started with a simple sparkler...
1985 Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill
Deep gold in color, this looked fully mature, but really it isn't, though it is in a truly great place right now. Baked apple eventually gives was to more citrusy/bright aromas and flavors. It's very mouthfilling, and even two hours later towards the end of dinner it's still gaining weight and complexity. Wonderful Champagne.
With steaks we had two contrasting California Cabernets.
Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon NV
This was a blend of the '66 and '71 vintages of Monte Bello Cabernet fruit bottled in 1972 according to the label. Initially quite acidic, with the food it calmed down and showed that it had plenty of fruit and tannin. The black cherry and cassis fruit was balanced with cedar on the finish and supported by smooth but noticeable tannins. Surprisingly young for a 35/40 year old blend.
1995 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
I was interested to try this because of the GJE results, and it did not disappoint. Smooth and supple (less tannin than the Ridge), it was plummy and mouthfilling; very easy to drink. I'm a fan of the 1995 vintage, actually more so than '94, and have been enjoying the wines from that year quite a bit lately. This Beringer showed the same seetness of fruit and balanced structure that I had previously seen in the Insignia and Arrowood Reserve. Excellent wine.
t-minus 1 day to go...although since the big day is a Monday, celebrations will be subdued/postponed.
I married a Baltimore girl.
