TNs: 2004 Macle Cotes de Jura; 2003 Croix de Beaucaillou

2004 Macle Cotes de Jura - Blend of chardonnay and savignin from a vineyard that was part of Chateau Chalon until the lines were redrawn. Intriguing blend that offers semi-tropical fruits, rocks, earth, forest floor (a bold hint of pine needles) on the nose. Mouthfeel is full, rich and a little oily with a little suggestion of a fino sherry. Very rich and complex on the palate. My brother-in-law, who is the director of catering at the Four Seasons, Atlanta, called it an almost perfect aperitif. I could take a touch more acidity in the wine, but that’s really carping in a way. Excellent wine for appetizers of all stripes.

2003 Croix de Beaucaillou (from magnum) - Very well-balanced and fully integrated bottle of wine. The tannins that remain are soft and only slightly drying. Nose of red/black fruits, leather, tobacco, with a light touch of herbs. On the palate, consistent round, full flavors that are very light on their feet. Very classy. Excitement factor is low, but this is solid second label effort.

Steve, great notes. Curious if you have had a bottle of the 05 Croix by chance and how you would compare them.

I took down a few of the 05’s in the last few months and was greatly impressed by them (vs. cost ~ $35/bottle). Just outside my ‘daily drinker’ range but I’ve considered searching out older vintages like the 03.

Lance - Thanks. Don’t have the '05. I think I paid under $40 for the '03 magnums and went [wow.gif] at the '05 prices.