Landmarc, in Tribeca, has an unusually good selection of half bottles, so that's where my nine year old daughter went to dinner last night with her closest friend and her little sister. Luckily, their parents are the best, so my ex and I had a great time while the three girls retreated into a world of pasta & juice and collective forays to the bathroom whenever any one of them had to go. Unfortunately, most vintages on the wine list were quite recent, so I had to hope that the stuffing would outweigh the prematurity.
2005 Jacques Prieur Beaune Champs-Pimont 1er Cru
Prieur is one of those venerable Burgundy names I had yet to try, so I was excited to see this on the list, and not unreasonably priced either. Delicate aromas of violets and sweet cherry, high toned and subtle at the same time. Lovely mouthfeel, perfect acid/sweet balance, classy and surprisingly accessible. One to seek out.
2005 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Crau 14.5%
For contrast, I expected this to be burly, and was not disappointed. Leather, spice and dark berry aromas, searing acidity, grippy tannins, very alcoholic and spicy. A powerhouse wine of obvious quality, but several years away from a satisfying integration between the parts.
The only disappointment of the night was my hanger steak, that looked like a policeman's baton and was overcooked. But I was too hungry and having too good a time to send it back.