2002 Montrachet, Bouchard was monolithic, powerful and muscular. I had it decanted 30 minutes before. (Probably longer would have been better!) Lemon, apple, pear, almond, overlaid with a waxy character. A taut minerality and vibrant acidity threaded through the palate. Smokey and butterscotch notes appeared after some more aeration. The sheer power and phenomenal complexity of the wine was stunning. Saline finish. I think this could wait a couple more years yet to deliver more of uts potential. (Richard commented that the 2002 Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche, Drouhin that we tried last year (?) was more elegant, lush and less restrained than the Bouchard.) 19/20
A pair of Bonnes Mares, Georges Roumier followed. The 1999 showed vibrant energy, fine-detailed tight structure and great precision. A very fine expression and incredibly harmonious. Plum, animal, savoury and mushroom notes. Still some astringency on the finish. A very long life ahead. Very stylish and suave. 19/20
The 1997 also showed very similar character of animal, savoury, mushroom, as well as leather, coffee and liquorice, and a hint of torrefaction. Much more developed than the 1999 but it still retained the hallmark of the wine, albeit in a more approachable style. Less precise on the palate, and less concentration/intensity than the 1999. It had a lovely supple character, balanced with mellow but sound level of freshness and the velvety tannin was totally integrated. A wine of classy breed and perfect for drinking now. 17.5/20
We finished with 1980 Dow's Vintage Port. A vibrant ruby garnet colour. Brilliant fruit intensity with dark cherry, bing cherry, date, figs, brown sugar on the nose. Plenty of vibrancy. A Port of muscular dimensions but showing great harmony. Loved the clean and long mellow finish. A beauty but still very youthful. 17+/20
No comments:
Post a Comment