| Dinner after a long day showing Alexis Pichon the sights and tastes of Long Island. Stops included Macari Vineyards (disappointing), Paumanok Vineyards (always a pleasure), Briemere Farms for pies and Sand City Brewing (maybe producing LI's best range of beers). Caroline and David joined our full crew and Alexis for dinner. Quick taste We had a few minutes mutes before dinner so stopped at Caroline & David's where this decanted blind CdP awaited. - 1998 Domaine de la Janasse Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes - France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Tasted blind, I guessed Nebbiolo from the mid 90's at first and later commented that it seemed more French than Italian. Mostly resolved - showing a mix of secondary and tertiary elements. Would have liked to try with food.
Antipasti & salad Fried zucchini, Caesar salad, mixed green salad, pulpo, etc. Secondi I had a Sicilian style chicken breast that paired nicely with the Etna Rosso. - 2008 Fattorie Romeo Del Castello Etna Vigo - Italy, Sicily, Etna DOC
Tart, fleshy and ashy with a formidable spine. Ample fresh fruit flavors. The tannic finish when revisiting 2 days later compels me to wait on my next bottle. Very good.
- 1998 Domaine du Pégau Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Laurence - France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape
I really wanted to like this but my streak continues of misalignment with any special cuvée. I also struggle with the ferocity of this vintage. Alas, this was too hot, brooding and monolithic despite impressive fruit and structure.
Max insisted on trying a sweet Grappa made from chamomile. |