We drove into the city on a miserably, rainy Saturday night to meet up with friends at Red Cat. The place was bustling, and our friends were already seated at the table. Nothing like a couple of wine geeks checking out the wine list while our spouses chit chatted and basically ignored us. We settled on a 2004 Domaine du Closel Saviennieres La Jalousie to begin. Oh so young with good acidity, light honey and lots of floral - a very nice beginning, it picked up weight as the night wore on, and my half glass saved for dessert, showed more sweetness. My friend wanted a red to go with his steak-hmmm, he seemed to forget that there were 3 others who may not be ordering steak. It didn't matter as it ended up that one had calves liver, and another steak. I forwent my usual fish for duck to have something hefty to go with a 1996 Les Pagodes de Cos -great nose of coffee and cherries on this dark purple St. Estephe. Mouth coating earthiness with moderate tannins - ideal wine for steak.
Last night at home, we opened a 1998 Dom de la Charbonniere Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hautes Brusquieres. Finally, this has opened. About 2 years ago, when last tried, it showed absolutely nothing. Now it shows an herb, cherry and floral nose. Rich tasting, and loaded with spice leading to a long, lovely finish. Drinking beautifully, and a good wine weekend.
Tonight, we will be back in the city for an Italian wine dinner.