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1998 Clos de l’Oratoire - France, Bordeaux, Libournais, St. Émilion Grand Cru (8/5/2009)
It’s been hot lately but I was really in the mood for a heartier red to accompany some beautiful NY Strips about to be grilled. I chose this wine because I thought it would have a bit more finesse and be a bit less rich than some other Bdx choices. Opened, then decanted for about 3 hours before consumption.
After reading the other CT reviews I thought my take on this wine was different (perhaps it was the length of time alowed to open up). Nice nose on this wine and was a solid effort no doubt. I got an unmistakeable nose/whiff of red fruit. This was not overly aromatic where you want to jump in the glass but was simply nice.
Very dark in the glass upon the first few sips it was all black fruit (plum & blackberry), coffee/mocha, some earth and light spice. Not overly lush and not overly fruity, in my untrained palate I would best describe this wine as nicely balanced. Tannins are well integrated and to me, this wine finds itself in a nice place but can improve a bit with more time. Plenty of life ahead of itself this was really enjoyable. (90 pts.)
Posted from CellarTracker