Tuesday, 12 January 2016

Cave de Tain, Crozes-Hermitage, 2014

£13, M&S. 100% Marsanne, no oak.

Shit, surprisingly so.

Bought on Matt Wells' advice that white Rhone would be a good accompaniment for blue cheese soufflé, this was a huge disappointment.

Really high acidity, thin and downright sharp.

A very, very far cry from the Brezeme.

Further evidence that white burgundy is more satisfying and reliable at this price point?

Saturday, 2 January 2016

Schisterelle Coup de Coeur 2011 Faugeres

Last one. Drank on Jan 1st with DL. Without doubt the most fruity, satisfying red from my whole Faugeres experience. Wish I'd brought more back. Bright stoney berries. Very refreshing.

Friday, 1 January 2016

CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2003

A magnum won by DL in a works raffle!

No prior experience of this region whatsoever. I read that the grape is sangiovese and the area is tuscany.

It was hugely enjoyable. Earthy, funky nose. Some coffee/dark chocolate? silky, refined tannins. Still retained plenty of power but well balanced. A great wine.

Interesting that aged prestigious wines from different areas made with different grapes seem to converge somewhat over the years - it certainly had something in common with riojas and clarets of a similar price bracket and age.