More food with friends

[Florida Jim]

Paul and Elaine stuck around another day and we had:

With cheese and crackers:

2003, Pax Rose of Syrah:

Darker than many roses, full of flavor and, when served cold, no trace of alcoholic heat (14.1%). Strikes a nice balance between refreshing and toothsome.

With pasta with red sauce:

2001 B. Giacosa, Nebbiolo D’Alba Valmaggiore:

Rose and tar scents on a somewhat expansive nose – “smells like real wine” was Paul’s comment; medium body, elegant on the palate with deep earth tones and bright cherry, raspberry fruit, some dusty tannins; good persistence. Did not overwhelm the food but contrasted it well. A lovely, authentic wine.

and,

2001 Sang des Cailloux, Vacqueyras Cuvee Floureto:

Distinctly of its place on the nose and palate with meaty red fruit, scents of iron and earth, nearly salty minerality, concentrated, a worsted texture and a medium finish. This wine conjures up the word “savory” in my mind despite its ripe fruit; really nice with food.

With Elaine’s apple crisp:

1998 Schoffit, Tokay Pinot Gris SGN Rangen de Thann, Lot 1 (500 ml):

A mouthful of a name and a mouthful of wine; quite clear and clean and at the same time very sweet, dried fruit scents and flavors along with some brown spice and citrus elements; viscous and concentrated; long finish. Excellent with the dish but a bit too sweet for my personal taste.

Best, Jim