WTN: 2001 Joseph Sabon Clos Du Mont-Olivet CHneufdP

Another from a mixed case of Rhones from North berkeley Imports. The label says this was barrel selected by N B I and bottled unfiltered. I don't think I've ever had a wine from them I didn't like.

The nose on this one is fairly muted, just a whif of floral things to come. The palate, however, is anything but muted. Dark cherries and raspberries, seemingly sweet on the attack maybe because of the fruit, then settles down into some really fine (not sweaty) leather, tiny bit of vanilla and flowers LOADS of flowers, mostly violets and lavendar. There's just enough pucker and fine tannins at the end. Great long and dry finish to ponder while sitting on the porch tonight watching the world go by.

[Jenise]

In my exploration of Rhone style wines of the last few years, Joseph Sabon has emerged as one of my favorites. Even in an off year like 02 he made a very good wine, though it won't age like the 89 we had a few weeks ago. Welcome to the club.

Hi Jenise,
Why does this not surprise me?

Mont-Olivet is pretty much the only Rhone this now-burgophile buys anymore.

I also appreciate the Mont Olivet wines, but when you say Barrel Selected by NBI, I assume that means it was not Cuvee Unique, i.e. not tarted up with the New Oak treatment. Good sense on their part if so..

[Jenise]

Howard, nothing should surprise you any more--we seem to have twin palates. I can think of no one else who seems to like all the wines I like and get them in exactly the same way. You, in fact, are the living proof that my palate isn't as wacky as I think (shut up, Spohn)--there is a rhyme or reason to it, even if we don't know what it is.

I believe you are correct, this is not the cuvee unique but I'll have to check when I get home tonight.

Regarding aging: I did notice that the second day, while still a pleasure to drink, the floral character was somewhat muted compared to the first. Not sure of the significance but I suspect this one isn't going to be one for the ages either.