Instead of our usual format, we simply gathered for some grilled food and opened up some bottles that Ali & Andy brought along, as well as wines from David's cellar. The wines are listed in the order poured (non-blind), and no points were awarded.
Albert Bichot Domaine Long-Depaquit Chablis 2005. Exhibited a color similar to "dehydrated urine", and offering aromas of apricots, red apples, oil, hay, and minerals. In the mouth, this started off with saline/hydrogen peroxide notes, then moved to "spent citrus" (Ali) and apples. Briney. From David's cellar. This was the winner of the Chablis Shakedown #2 from last September. About $25.
Talamonti Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Cerasuolo Rosé 2007. Light red color, with a hint of orange, this was surprisingly dark. Smelled of raspberries, sangria, fruit punch, and peaches. A happy wine, syrupy/oily texture, but with enough acidity to lift it up. Not candied, however. Fun! From Ali & Andy's cellar. About $15.
Stags' Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (Napa Valley). The nose made Ali weak in the knees, showing notes of cassis, licorice, dried herbs, charcoal, dry brush, lavender, and black pepper. Structured and grippy in the mouth, and tasting like a symphony that keeps going on and on, with black cherry flavors. Dark in profile, with a long finish. Made Ali want to sing Kumbaya. From Ali & Andy's cellar. About $40.
Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne Non-Vintage. This version was disgorged in 2007. Tasters were reminded of baked apple pie, mushrooms, cinnamon, butter, almonds, hazelnuts, and coffee. An earthy, richer style. Masculine, and mature. From David's cellar. About $40.
JUNE 2011: DINNER AT KRISTIN & DAVID'S
