Mussels, pasta and salad
2023 Parentiere Muscadet Vieilles Vignes
Fresh saline and light, frisky without the weight of a Briords or L’d’Or, Lemon, herbs, and a little grass. B/B+
Steak, squash, and leftover pasta
1999 Paul Chapelle Gravieres Santenay 1er Cru
I realized 27 years might be pushing it for Santenay, and indeed this was a little too soft and a little short. Some red fruit and sous bois, but a touch clipped, and not much grip. No off flavors, just not enough ummph left. B-/C+
(but worked well as a quail marinade)
Grade disclaimer: I'm a very easy grader, basically A is an excellent wine, B a good wine, C drinkable. Anything below C means I wouldn't drink at a party where it was the only choice. Furthermore, I offer no promises of objectivity, accuracy, and certainly not of consistency.