Wines with friends

[Florida Jim]

With smoked salmon and cream cheese spread with assorted crackers:

1996 Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Champagne Rose Reserve:

Truly distinct Champagne with fine bubbles, some yeast on the nose and a vinous and complex palate with a crystal clean finish. Delightful with the food.

With fresh Blue Crab, crab cakes with basmati rice, wilted Swiss chard and a roasted red pepper aioli:

2000 Luneau-Papin, Muscadet Clos des Allees:

The very best bottle of the case and, unfortunately, my last. Lovely aromatics, depth on the palate while maintaining its cut, perfect balance, an almost rich mouthfeel and great persistence. Showing as well as any Muscadet I have ever had and superb with the dish.

With assorted cheeses and crusty bread:

1996 G. Roumier, Morey-Saint-Denis Clos de la Bussiere:

Not as closed as one would think but not at peak either. Clean, crisp, good depth and clearly Morey. As it opened in the glass all the edges receded and it became smoother and more complex. Nothing but upside here.

Best, Jim