The sumptuous and aromatically compelling 1998 Cheval Blanc set the stage for a proper Graileys afternoon last Friday. Member Matt J pulled this one from his private stash and what a treat! Out of the bottle, it showed a layered and beautiful bouquet of smoke, cedary spice, roasted herbs, fresh tobacco pipe, and truffle with a core of sweet plums. The palate was sumptuous and velvety textured; tannins were ripe, supple, and very well integrated. As the wine sat in the glass it became ‘sweeter’ with more plums and black berries fruit coming through along with a nice touch of floral elements. I simply loved the wine’s aromatics that I kept swirling and sniffing the last two drops in my glass and did not drink it until the second I had to get out of the door.
The 1999 Lalou Bize Leroy Auxey Duresses Les Boutonniers was drama in a glass. The wine showed some aromatic/flavor development revealing notes of ripe orchard fruits, quince, poached pear, honeycomb, and butterscotch. The palate was equally compelling with a density and concentration and almost a chewiness to the wine that to me is classic to this producer. Yet even with that richness and texture, it never appears heavy. There seems to always be an underlying acidity that keeps these wines in check. Very put together and harmonious. On the finish there is a hint of stony minerality that is a perfect foil to the sweet fruit. I’ve had the pleasure of trying a few of Lalou Bize-Leroy bottlings and they never cease to excite and leave a lasting imprint.
Member Kelly A walked in and generously shared a bottle of 1982 Dom Perignon. Wow!!! This is probably the best 82 DP I’ve ever had and certainly, the freshest bottle, from my experience. It was just firing on all cylinders… nose of brioche, toast, honey, quince, and citrus blossoms. Powerful and well-structured on the palate with a rich mouthfeel balanced by a persistent effervescence and a core of acidity. I love the focus here and the exceptional finish! Although showing some flavor maturity, it seemed fresher than other 82s I’ve had in the past.