Bistro Pastis
Tasted Thursday, February 16, 2012 by godx with 961 views
While I was going to write an overview of the wines myself, my friend Blair Curtis did a much better job than I could have and his thoughts and impressions are accurate and perfectly align with my own. So here’s what Blair had to say:
"As an overview, I'll say that I was impressed with these wines. We did a similar tasting featuring Lynch Bages last year, but I think the GPL wines showed even better to my palate. That may be a matter of style. Albert Givton spoke and noted that he often mentally divides the wines of Pauillac into camps under the head of the First Growth that exemplifies the style. He said GPL falls into the Latour camp - more classic, big wines, cedary, cigar box, etc. He puts Lynch Bages into the Mouton camp - more exotic, riper, spicier, maybe more New World.
Last night I thought the '82 and '90 were outstanding. The '86 is excellent, but still not mature. The '89 was singing when it first arrived, but faded quickly in the glass. The '83 was fully mature and drinking fine now - not at the quality level of the aforementioned vintages...I'd look to drink these in the near term if I had some cellared. The '96 was a pleasant surprise - it was one of the better wines. And still showed some traditional winemaking and style.
The final flight was '99, '01 and '03. Honestly I would not buy any of these. In keeping with other Bdx verticals I've done, I note a change in the style of the wines after 1996. People at our table mentioned "Parkerization". The post-'96 wines certainly seemed to be more "international" in style, lacking some of the Bdx character/typicity/distinctiveness that is evident in tasting the earlier wines. Most preferred the '03 in this flight, as it may have potential. It is freaky and large, but has some good material underneath. It might age into something worthy. The '99 is disappointing and lacks any punch. The '01 is boring and not a great GPL."
With Smoked Salmon Blinis, Mushroom and Goat Cheese Crepe, Albacore Tuna Tartar...
With Duck Confit and Chestnut Tortellini, Du Puy Lentils, Golden Beets...
With Braised Veal Cheeks, Chard, Crispy Polenta, Sultana Grape Jus...
With Roasted Venison en Croute, Porcini Mushroom Duxelle, Butternut Squash, Cippoloni Brussels Sprout Leaves, Red Wine Sauce...
With Grand Marnier Souffle, vanilla Crème Anglaise, Blood Orange Sorbet...
1999 Boizel Champagne Brut Millésimé 89 Points
France, Champagne
No formal notes. Nice maturity on the nose with notes of toast, yeast, soft citrus and earthiness. Soft and round in the mouth with nice acidity. Very good.
Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No / Report Issue