2001 Milz Laurentiushof Trittenheimer Felsenkopf Riesling Spätlese
This is a bit of an adolescent, but with style and not too awkward. Pale youthful color. Somewhat reserved nose, tropical fruit with a little bit of petrol. On entry still a tingle of CO2, then becomes cream like in texture. First impression is that this is broad and sweet, but there is a tart lime acidity that kicks in on the finish. Very interesting, and really enjoyable with a cold Chinese chicken salad. Educational to try in this stage of evolution. 8.5% abv, $20 a few years ago.
2003 Viader Tempranillo Dare (Napa Valley)
A gift from Vance. Dark purple. Some wood toast at first but has plenty of fruit to handle the oak. It is fully ripe but not a total fruit bomb. 13.5% abv. Lowish acidity, some harsh (oak? ) tannin on the finish. Better with grilled flank steak than alone. This does speak to me but it says Napa rather than Tempranillo. Price unknown.
2005 Domaine des Relagnes Côtes du Rhône Vieilles Vignes
A good match with a grilled rib eye. The nose has some smoke and a little road asphalt. In the mouth the grenache fruit dominated with more cherry flavors. The wine is ripe but quite fresh and not cooked or jammy. Nice now, but should drink well over the next 3-5 years. About $14.
2005 Elena Walch Pinot Bianco Alto Adige
Nice match with grilled Bristol Bay sockeye salmon with lemon, and dill. Racy and clean, light body, white fruit, some grapefruit and citrus and a little apple. Soft minerals add some interest. Nice summer wine. 13% abv, $14. I tried the Alois Lageder Pinot Bianco last week. The Walch version is similar in flavor. I think the Lageder has more glycerin and body, and the Walch better acidity. I would be happy to drink either one again.
2004 Coudert Fleurie Clos de la Roilette
I was happy to find some more of these around for sale. Tonight's bottle was very good. Expressive nose, not at all closed. Still some of the crunchy 04 tart cranberry fruit, but quite a bit less than a bottle 8 months ago. Very bright, lively, nuances of earth and shading more towards black fruit more than red. More acidity than tannin in the structure. Delicious right now, should hold for some time. Interesting match with a Kalamata olive baguette and Morbier cheese. The olives seemed to accentuate the earthy aspect of the wine. Good stuff for $15.
Best,
Marc