2009 Benton Lane Pinot Gris – Calm but vivid aromas, spicy and leafy with some white fruits. Light bodied but with good subtle flavors of moderate intensity. Coriander and ginger up front, hints of pear and quince behind, with a hint of green plum at the finish. Fine balance with the piquant, spicy character carrying through to the end. Does not have the intensity of great wine, but a very pleasant, interesting glass. Rated 88.92. My first Benton Lane Pinot Gris, but not my last.
2002 Bouchard Savigny – Pale red color with first hints of brick. An open, slightly overripe red cherry aroma leads to a light-bodied wine with pleasant red cherry fruit and just a hint of earth. There is not much tannin but although the wine seems quite developed there is a lot of acidity; on the one hand, it keeps the wine fresh, on the other hand it’s a bit more than I want or expect and is a little intrusive. While still enjoyable, this lacks the breadth and earthiness I expect and love in Savigny, even at this basic level. Rated 82.8, ready to drink. I have four more bottles and they will go within 12 months as I’m not sure the fruit will outlive the acidity.
Dan Kravitz