You never know what is going to happen at Graileys and that is exceptionally true on Mondays. Last night we were honored to host the one and only, Mrs. Philly- Mum to Dr. Richebourg, and our beloved Good Ole’Boys Monday night crew and boy did it turn into a quiet Monday into a night that sets the new year at a very high standard. To kick off their visit, Dr. Richebourg opened a bottle of 1969 Remoissenet Chambolle Musigny because that’s what you do when your Mum is in town and this particular bottle was holding on strong with dried wild berry fruit, dusty minerals, dried clay and potpourri.
As usual, on a laid back Monday night with the boys, only the best bottles were opened and there were plenty of great bottles on the table. But there were a few that really stood out far above the rest and is much worthy of being on the blog. These three aged Bordeaux were so f** good, I just have to share my experience with you…
1982 Palmer- Opened by The Most Interesting Man In The World, the ’82 Palmer was my wine of the night!! Everything in the bottle last night was showing at the highest level. Absolutely seamless from start to finish. The dark berry fruit was beautifully preserved and wonderfully complimentary to its multiple layers of compost, charcoal, dense baking spice and wild violets. Along with its compelling flavors, the elegant texture was the epitome of finesse that had me seduced. The finish could have lingered on, but I was too entranced with the mid-palate to even notice at the time. Absolutely gorgeous! If Palmer’s ’82 is like this beauty, I would kill to get my hands on the legendary ’83.
1986 Margaux- The Good Doctor graciously opened this magical bottle and holy smokes the ’86 Chateau Margaux is on fire and I can now say that I have fully lived!! I know, I hadn’t claimed it as my wine of the night, solely due to the fact that it needed more airtime. The ’86 Margaux has so much to give!!! Amazing broad shoulders, round mouth-coating texture, near-brooding dense purple and black fruit, infinite layers of rich earth, sweet cigar and spice leading into an ever haunting finish. I was blown away at first taste and highly regret not dedicating my entire night around this mighty glass.
1978 Leoville Las Cases- The ’78 LLC was alive and at its apex with ridiculously explosive tones filled with dried earth, truffle, dried tobacco, dense forest floor, dried wild purple florals, clay, cedar, bay leaves; this bottle was ON! It wasn’t the most seamless wine from the vintage, but it was drinking like a champ and every layer, every element was thoroughly enjoyed.