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| Still an endangered species? |
Vigneti Massa, Derthona, 2009
This is 100% Timorasso, a grape on the edge of extinction, like Viognier three decades ago, only much more to my tastes. Despite some light oxidation on nose, the palate is surprisingly lively, albeit with an almond-like bitterness on the finish. Beyond said characteristics, there's a nuttiness on the nose, and just a hint of flowers. Very much Italian: that nuttiness and savory, low-key fruit, with unobtrusive acidity.
J. J. Prum, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Wehlener Sonnenuhr, Riesling Auslese, 1993
The nose has a crystalline feel to it, as though you were sniffing a snowflake: herbs, slate, petrol, apples receding to peaches on the nose (but more obvious on palate). Lively and lovely, demure and under-stated. At the peak of still youthful maturity.
Domaine Jean-Jacques Confuron, Chambolle-Musigny, 1999
Forest floor, coffee, red fruit overflowing into black. The earthy side of Pinot, not very Chambolle. Unbalanced, as it is too tannic: bitter tannins, not savory ones. Granted, some '99s I've tasted were still unyielding, but this doesn't feel like it will ever surrender anything worthwhile.
Domaine Henry Gouges, Nuit-Saint-Georges Premier Cru, Les Vaucrains, 2004
A gorgeous nose, on the elegant side of NSG: forest floor, minerals, a balanced blend of red and black fruit. The palate is fresh, vital, full of life. Not complex but charming and tasty, which I guess is 2004 at its best.
Jean-Luc Colombo, Cornas, Les Ruchets, 1999
Black fruit, light traces of brett, pleasantly green notes, just a touch of black pepper. A soft, lovely wine with no sign of rusticity. Fantastic acidity.
Michele Satta, Bolgheri Superiore, i Castagni, 2003
Red fruit, chives, leather, slightly earthy. Luscious yet structured. Tasty, excellent acidity. Another argument for exploring Italians again.
Philippe Delesvaux, Coteaux du Layon, Selection des Grains Nobles, 2006
Quince, brown sugar, apricots, no sign of botrytis. Lower in acidity than other vintages I've tasted (1997, 2001), less elegant, but still a very tasty, hedonistic pleasure.
Many thanks to Yotam Sharon for hosting, as well as for everyone who shared a bottle.
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