1973

[Florida Jim]

In 1973, I was 26 years old, my daughter was born, and, one of my best friends, then 24, died of complications due to alcoholism. Sometimes, I think what I would have missed if I had done likewise. Heaven knows, I was on the same path.

So every once and awhile, I take a break from wine (and other alcoholic beverages). Mostly, just show myself that I can, lose a few pounds and keep a sense of perspective. But in some part, in consideration of both my daughter and all the time I have had and will continue to have with her, and, my late friend and all the time we didn’t and won’t ever have together.

For the past several weeks, I have been on the wagon – but I’m back.

2004 J. Drouhin, Morgon:

Correct, precise and restrained; I think, hiding a depth and structure that will serve it well medium term. Good now, probably better tomorrow.

1999 G. Robin, Crozes Hermitage, Cuvée Alberic Bouvet:

Slightly closed the first day but still a fine drink; the second day, a prime example of its variety but it might be mistaken for good Côte-Rôtie. Exceptional, complex and showing no signs of fade; quite the contrary, excellent development.

2004 Descendientes de J. Palacios, Bierzo Pétalos:

Very concentrated and evident but very fine, chalky tannins with good balance and intensity. Nothing thick or over-done here; bodes well for a future in the cellar but delicious with stronger flavored fare today.

2002 Tamellini, Soave Classico Anguane:

Ah, Soave . . . spicy, crystalline, lively and complex; all one could want in a white wine to serve along side pasta with lemon shrimp. Beautiful.

1995 Caprai, Sagrantino di Montefalco 25 Anni:

Initial aromas of warm earth, cooked fruit and leather, becomes more oaky with time; still substantial tannins but not overwhelming (anymore) with solid fruit and mineral tones and too much wood. Pretty good when served with assorted cheeses, not especially pleasant on its own.

1999 Chevillon, Nuits-Saint-Georges Les Pruliers:

Poured one short pour upon opening and left the bottle open for four hours; youthful, complex and obviously Nuits, this is of a whole cloth; delicious today but the quality is so recognizable that there is little doubt it is on its way to being a great wine. Hold.

Best, Jim

[nhconner]

Jim,

I was born in 1973 if that gives you any more perspective. 1973 is a pretty bad year for wine. The best 73 I have had was an Inglenook Cab. Most others have been bad to ok. I have two sons now. We go to Sugar often, so you will meet them. I like to take breaks too. Is good for your soul.

Nate

Edited April 2, 2006 by nhconner (log)

[Florida Jim]

Two sons; you have been busy.

Drop me a line when you're headed up; 'love to meet them.

Best, Jim

[DTBarton]

Jim, 

I was born in 1973 if that gives you any more perspective.  1973 is a pretty bad year for wine.  The best 73 I have had was an Inglenook Cab.  Most others have been bad to ok.  I have two sons now.  We go to Sugar often, so you will meet them.  I like to take breaks too.  Is good for your soul.

Nate

←

1973 is often not even mentioned for Bordeaux the vintage was so bad. However, my father in law (who recently passed away) purchased some 1973 Petrus in the mid 70s. I can tell you from recent tasting that it still shows pretty well. A little past it's prime, but full bodied and balanced with aged fruit. So, a top notch winemaker can make chicken salad out of chicken merde.

[SWISS_CHEF]

About 1988 I bought a half of a case of '73 Latour and drank it from '88 through about 93. It was surprising for me because I had strong prejudices about off-vintages but the '73 Latour cured me of that! I also remember something similar happening with a half case of '73 Gruaud Larose that we drank about 1982-84....

Not sure how these wines would drink today but it's worth a try.