My first week at Graileys and I am blown away not only by the impressive labels being opened, but by the warm welcome from our members, clients, and the Graileys’ team. As the temperature is going up and the children are trickling their way back to school, this week has been a little quiet in Graileys. But that’s not stopping Graileys from opening great bottles! Two bottles stood out to me: a vibrant vintage Champagne Rose and a strong 14 year old 5th Growth Bordeaux from Pauillac.
2008 Louis Roederer Brut Rose from the steep, clay and limestone slopes of Cumieres showed bright, ripe strawberries with a touch of citrus zest. The structure of this Champagne in its majority Pinot Noir blend was what really impressed us all. With an intense creamy texture and vibrant bubbles; counter balanced by the delicate fruit, fresh rose petals, and a touch of salinity, this is a perfect Champagne Rose to pair with the 100+ degrees of Texas heat!
The 2000 Chateau Grand Puy Lacoste was drinking impressively, showing deep black fruits with a profound richness in the mid-palate and multiple layers of savory goodness. Dried herbs of sage and thyme, then notes of cedar, old leather and a touch of dill, followed by a layer of roasted pepper spice had us all talking! Not to mention the earth and mineral undertones adding yet another layer to this bottle! The tannins were still gripping and with another five years, will integrate very well with the long savory finish this vintage has to offer.
Other labels that have been quite popular this week:
2012 William Fevre Chablis Premier Crus Fourchaume
2009 Arnaud Ente Meursault
2009 Renato Ratti Barolo “Marcenasco”
2010 Switchback Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon
….And this is only the beginning….