Paul Jaboulet Aine Cornas 1978
This Cornas, as an unknown entity, was opened (and a tiny tasting sample taken) 5 hours before time & then poured into glasses. There was a huge amount of sediment in this bottle and the note from the dregs which remained… Ruby red with a tiny hint of orange. The immediate reaction on the nose was the sour cherry/peppery elements with tar, herb, soy & leather. Even 3 hours later the palate is thankfully still alive and somewhat rustic with sweet fruit, earth and truffle like notes with the good underlying acidity keeping freshness in a wine that has perhaps passed it’s plateau of maturity while still holding much interest. A graceful old Syrah. %abv not shown. 90pts
Joh. Jos. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese 1983
This wine needs time in a decanter/glass/bottle to reveal more. After 4 hours… A surprisingly pale in the light, I would never have given this as 26 years old. The nose now reveals honey, slate, citrus, petrol and all in a rather delicate way. The palate is youthful and more explosive with the fruit ripeness balancing magnificently with the fine acidity. Great vibrancy here. I can see this lasting another 10 years if well cellared like it was. A super middle aged MSR, AP Nr.2 576 511-6-84. %abv not shown. 94pts