With lamb chops, escarole, and leftover white beans, the 2005 Epicurea de Chateau Martinat (Cotes de Bourg). Modern without being OTT. Cassis and ripe black raspberries, just a hint of roasted coffee beans. Definitely some oak, but doesn't stand out awkwardly. Fairly plush texture, pretty good for a $20 Bordeaux. Probably can age for a while,but with this style wine I generally say why? B+
With a stirfry of Chinese sausage, broccoli rabe, and udon, the 2007 Donnhoff Oberhauser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett (Nahe). Floral nose, bright apple and lime fruit, long minerally finish. Good concentration, very tasty now but seems like there's even more lurking underneath. I've heard folks say the Leistenberg doesn't age, but I'm in no hurry on these. A-/B+
Over several days with friends, there was also the 2007 Schloss Lieser Estate Riesling (MSR). A very pretty just-offdry QbA. More petrolly than fruity, though there is some good white peach and lemon fruit. Good acids, solid wine. Not a mindblower, but at $15 a good wine. B/B+
Grade disclaimer: I'm a very easy grader, basically A is an excellent wine, B a good wine, C mediocre. Anything below C means I wouldn't drink at a party where it was only choice. Furthermore, I offer no promises of objectivity, accuracy, and certainly not of consistency.