By: AJ McClellan
Thursday was a great night in Graileys. We had a over a dozen bottles opened around the table and all were fantastic.
A few of my favorites were the 1978 La Mission Haut Brion, 1998 Dom Perignon P2, and 2002 Staglin Cabernet. First off, the Dom Perignon was a delight! The first release of their new “P2″ bottling that is replacing the oenotheque label was a very impressive showing. 98 was not the best vintage but with some age on it I have been impressed with the vintage as a whole. The P2 was vibrant with lemon zest and a nice minerality.
Next was the 02 Staglin which was very good! The wine had enough time in the bottle that the tannins were soft and approachable but the fruit was bright and crisp. Notes of red cherry and plums were prevalent on the palate and the finish was long lasting.
Last was the 78 La Mission. This was the 3rd time I have tasted the wine and it has been excellent each time. The wine showed earth and leather with graphite on the end. This wine is holding up fantastically well for a 1978 and just goes to show that the 1978 vintage is in a great spot right now.
Other wines we had on the night were…
NV Willmar Champagne, 1997 Hudellot Richebourg, 2010 Denis Mortet Gevrey Chambertin, 1993 Taittinger, 1997 Chateau Montelena, 2000 William Seleyam Sonoma, 2001 Michele Magnien Clos de la Roche, 2011 Peter Michael Les Pavot, 1992 Rene Engel Clos Vougeot, 1999 Jaboulet La Chapelle, and 1998 Elderton Command Shiraz