Recent tastes

[Florida Jim]

2001 Clos La Coutale, Cahors:

A very enjoyable wine with ripe black cherry aromas accented with black pepper and earth; the same on the palate which is rich and fairly soft; decent length. This costs about $11 and is more than worth it; it also has some structure and it would be very interesting to give it a couple years in the cellar.

2002 Dom. Les Fines Graves (Jacky Janodet), Beaujolais Moulin a Vent:

Tight at first but, in the decanter for a couple hours, it opens nicely and carries aromas and flavors of cherry, chalk and spice in a silky textured, moderately complex way that peaks both the psychological and the physiological; good length. Janodet produces wines of authenticity and longevity and this is a fine example of both; about $12.

2002 Torres Dorees (J.P. Brun), Beaujolais L’Ancien VV:

Whatever reductive elements were a part of the nose previous, they were not present in this bottle and it was wonderfully fruit-filled and light on the palate with an integration the Janodet wine is still searching for. A delicious, sensual drink and more than ample proof to this taster that Brun is master of his craft. About $12.

NV Marquis de Monistrol, Cava Reserva Brut Selection Especiale:

This is absolutely a no-brainer with lovely fruit, a steady bead, light earthiness and a cleansing palate. Clean and delicious bubbly for, wait for it . . . , $6.

2002 Miguel Torres, Vina Sol (375):

Easy to drink and the perfect aperitif wine. Light, precise, clean and not even a whiff of wood. This split costs about $4.

Best, Jim