Recent tastes

[Florida Jim]

Recent tastes:

2002 Fevre, Chablis Champs Royaux:

Diane had some of this when I was out of town but recorked it and put it back in the cellar. On day two it had fleshed out nicely, maintained its structure, showed some depth and complexity and was readily identifiable as Chablis. More impressive than bottles that I have tasted when first opened. Good wine.

1997 Trimbach, Riesling Cuvee Frederic Emile (375):

Over-ripe pineapple with elements of citrus zest, wet stones and very light accents of fresh herbs; viscous and substantial on the palate with intense flavors that echo the nose, some complexity, excellent concentration and structure, lovely balance; and a very, very long finish.

The length of this wine was extraordinary; well, in truth, the wine was a cut above in every respect. Delicious as an aperitif.

2000 Jean-Paul Droin, Les Clos:

Almost no nose; swirling gets light lemon and vinous scents; although closed on the palate, deep flavors of ripe pear, lime, spring water and mineral coat the tongue, concentrated, structured, viscous and balanced; medium length finish.

The vineyard is starting to show through with its depth and power even as the texture is well integrated and round; but this needs many years in the cellar and I will try to avoid them for at least another five.

1999 Hamacher, Pinot Noir:

Very Chambolle on the nose with pure black fruit laced with red fruit and spice accents; slightly closed on the palate but very bright and “crispy” fruit flavors that follow the nose, a focused streak of mineral underlying and excellent balance; Long, crisp finish.

Needs a year or two (or more) but has come a long way since release. Delicious.

1995 Rubino della Palazzola:

Still a tannic wine but now opening up and showing solid plum, blackberry, cassis and earth scents and flavors with a concentrated mouthfeel and profile, decent balance and a medium length, somewhat drying finish.

Quite good with strong cheeses after dinner and not bad on its own. Nowhere near as tannic as several years ago. Not overtly woody.

Best, Jim