Bordeaux is the holy grail for wine connoisseurs. It's terroir produces very fine red grapes for the popular blends that have intrigued the wine drinking world for hundreds of years. But do not be duped - most of Bordeaux's mystique comes from its place in history, it's wealthy and status hungry patrons, and its ability to command huge profit from those who invest in its futures. Not to say that this isn't a great wine, but the last 50 years of winemaking have produced amazing results from newly planted vines in virgin land that have oft threatened to give Bordeaux a run for its money. With that said, Bordeaux is still a tasty wine, and one that should be drunk for pure pleasure, and no other reason. Keep in mind that most Bordeaux wines should be cellared for at least 10 years, but we don't have the time or money for those. Ok...let's get to the good stuff.
1. Chateaux La Creage (sp?) de Grenet, 2005, Bordeaux. This was the "pre-wine" wine. We all had an unofficial taste of this while getting our snacks and getting cozy at Tom's kitchen bar. Too harsh! Or at least those were my thoughts. Most of the gang seemed to enjoy this one. But the young vintage brought a cherry taste with a too-tannic mouthfeel. It did work well with the little sausages though. $10.99
2. Chateaux Haut Marchand, 2005, Bordeaux. Still young, but a bit more drinkable. Slight pepper and dark fruit on the nose. Although, I had trouble pairing with anything - and there was just about EVERYTHING at this spread! Not bad for $9.00. Nice as a simple sipper.
3. Mouton Cadet, 2003, Bordeaux. Sour cherries on the nose with some acidity, as well as a little sweetness. Also milder tannins. This is a gulpable easy drinking wine. Paired amazingly well with all cheeses. $9.00, nice price.
4. Chateux Cablanc, 2002, Bordeaux. The older vintages start to show their age as the tannins mellow and the flavors mingle. This has a strong berry nose with a slight mentholated or minty quality. Very smooth. Paired well with all. $16.00
5. Chateaux Paillet Quancard, 2002, Bordeaux. The barrel aging comes through here with a strong oak and dare I say buttery nose. Smooth, with very little fruit. Very tasty. $14.00
6. Chateaux Larose-Trintaudon, 2001, Haut-Medoc. This was the only wine from a particular appellation. The nose came through with dark berry and oaky notes. Complex flavors - the most sophisticated of the bunch. Paired great with all meats. $19.00.
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