Pretty much a gathering of people (relatives) who like wine but not obsessed by it, so I brought a few bottles in lieu of culinary duties, which to me is a fair trade.
Needed a Yank wine, so why not a Cali sparkler with a Spanish heritage? NV Gloria Ferrer Blancs de Noirs Brut, a screaming deal locally at $13. Very light pink tinge, dry, correct, and went well with the bird for those so inclined, a couple of folks liked it so much they never moved onto the Burgs.
The 2002 Cotes de Beaune Lafon-Bouchard P&F Vineyard Throwdown. On a very minor scale, not talking a Montrachet death match, but their Monthelie Les Duresses 1er crus. At the time, Bouchard was about $22, and Lafon was $33 or so, prices have escalated recently for this relatively minor red. In good years, this can be an excellent deal compared to neighboring Volnays. The 1996 Lafon of this first introduced me to red Burgs, so I have a soft spot, and it didn’t disappoint, had more fruit compared to the Bouchard, and was a bit sweeter, while the Bouchard tended to be a bit more acidic, but both were well-received, and the diners appreciated the differences emanating from the same vineyard of the same vintage, so the Lafon carried the day and was emptied first.
Dessert wine was 2005 Baumard Coteaux de Layon Carte d’Or, with all the tarts and pies, about $22 for a 750ml with screwcap top. I had one glass, which was lovely with a nice balance of acid and very non-cloying sweetness, but the sweet-tooth fiends (the 2 hard-liquor drinkers) were all over this and downed it quick. beautiful color, and pleasantly sweet but not overpowering nose, a bit floral actually.
Hope everyone’s Thanksgiving was very nice back with family and friends.