By: Philip Robert
Had an opportunity to taste through some of John’s lineup yesterday. Let me just say, these wines are so polar opposite the stereotypical overblown aussie fruitbombs that gave Syrah/shiraz such a bad name. I found them to be well structured, very approachable, clean fruit and nicely balanced. For the prices, these are excellent. (full disclosure we sell these wines)
2010 Plexus Marsanne – Citrus and pear. A little acidity to round it out, can see this going well with food.
2008 Plexus GSM – Red and black fruits with a nice soil component. Was very surprised at how bright and fresh the fruit was.
2008 Entity – Dark fruits of black cherry, blackberry, nice spice on the nose. Very pleasing to drink
2008 Eligo – pure clean fruit, focused and balanced, takes it to another level. Blueberry pie, touch of smoke and rich savory elements. Excellent
Afterwards:
99 Fougeray de Beauclair Clos Marion – a burgundy producer I am not familiar with but delivered the goods. Black tea and asian spice, really crept up in the glass after being opened for some time. A delicious wine.
69 Remoissenet Combottes – another classy wine that we have had many times. Keeps changing in the glass.
83 Chave – this was beautifully elegant and stylish right out of the glass. So feminine and delicate yet filled out its frame as it stayed in the glass. Strawberry jam and cherry on the nose, a touch of minerality added focus to an already well balanced wine. Gorgeous and such a treat to drink.
93 Chateau La Nerthe CdP – big, brawny and bursting with grilled meat and smoke. Dense and dark still, can see this going a lot longer.
91 Rene Rostaing Cote Blonde – another dark dense wine, but this one showed a more feminine side compared to the Nerthe. Move savory leather elements coupled with dried plum and currants. Definitive earthiness and smokiness going on. Loved this wine.
76 Chateau Gilette Sauterne – a little more advanced in color but drinking nicely with a bit of nectar and honey, ripe apricot. Softer and supple, delish with a cheese tray.
45 Chateau Collas Rivesaltes - fortifed Grenache if I recall correctly. So much like a tawny port, was a perfect way to close it all out