What an interesting beast, possessing both herbal qualities of Sauvignon and the texture, weight and fruit of Chenin Blanc. Rich and off dry but mineral. Unusual and exciting.
Magnum. Light ruby. Gorgeous raspberry fruit, spice and increasing garrigue over time. Yes, it has naturally sweet fruit, but in a style that is distinctly crisp and well honed for a 2003 due to outstanding acidity. Like the Hominis Fide tasted recently, this far exceeded my expectations and showed none of the roasted character of the vintage. This worked great with grilled beef and was simply delicious.
Magnum. Deep, primary color. Chocolate and herbal tones on the nose. Full and ripe but restrained and good fidelity to the varietal. This had enough acidity and earth in addition to the fruit that I could have been convinced I was tasting a very fine St. Emilion. Still loads of potential. Pretty eye opening as I don't think I've ever had a domestic Cabernet Franc this old and surely not at this level. High quality.
2001 Domaine des Baumard Savennières
France, Loire Valley, Anjou-Saumur, Savennières
Deep yellow. Faint oxidative note. Full, some residual sugar. Pretty good if not a dazzling Baumard.
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2008 François Cazin (Le Petit Chambord) Cour-Cheverny Vendanges Manuelles Cuvée Renaissance
France, Loire Valley, Touraine, Cour-Cheverny
What an interesting beast, possessing both herbal qualities of Sauvignon and the texture, weight and fruit of Chenin Blanc. Rich and off dry but mineral. Unusual and exciting.
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2003 Château de Saint Cosme Gigondas Valbelle
France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Gigondas
Magnum. Light ruby. Gorgeous raspberry fruit, spice and increasing garrigue over time. Yes, it has naturally sweet fruit, but in a style that is distinctly crisp and well honed for a 2003 due to outstanding acidity. Like the Hominis Fide tasted recently, this far exceeded my expectations and showed none of the roasted character of the vintage. This worked great with grilled beef and was simply delicious.
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1990 Havens Wine Cellars Cabernet Franc Carneros
USA, California, Napa / Sonoma, Carneros
Magnum. Deep, primary color. Chocolate and herbal tones on the nose. Full and ripe but restrained and good fidelity to the varietal. This had enough acidity and earth in addition to the fruit that I could have been convinced I was tasting a very fine St. Emilion. Still loads of potential. Pretty eye opening as I don't think I've ever had a domestic Cabernet Franc this old and surely not at this level. High quality.
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