WTN: Excellent Loire Red
Posted: Wed Sep 27, 2006 10:48 amLast night Betsy made the Zuni Cafe roast chicken with bread salad (my all-time favorite roast chicken recipe). I went to cellar for Pinot Noir, but wandered back up with a bottle of 2005 Filliatreau "La Grande Vignolle" Saumur-Champigny. I had liked but not loved previous versions of this, but a rave by Gilman had convinced me to buy a few. I'm very glad I did. A little tannic initially for the bird, but beautiful raspberry and black cherry fruit, a clear mineral core, and good finish. I served a little too cool (I tossed in fridge for a few minutes), but as it warmed the fruit burst forth and the tannins retreated a bit. Great acidic balance. I nursed a glass for an hour or more, some tobacco and light mocha notes emerges. This could use some time for the tannins to integrate, btu pretty now with air. I immediately ordered a few more ($14 at Wine Library). A-/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.
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.