1999 Bonneau du Martray, Corton-Charlemange, Grand Cru - A Max WB exclusive a little while back, this was my first bottle opened of those I purchased. A seamless wine with a very suave mouthfeel, it is perfectly balanced now between hedonism and intellectualism. The flavors are subtle yet rich with great length. A deft touch of oak pairs nicely with the minerality in the wine. Perhaps not a wow! wine, but one giving depth and complexity to occupy one’s palate and mind. A ridiculous WB exclusive value.
2003 Hospice de Beaune, Corton, Grand Cru, Dr. Peste cuvee (Jadot elevage) - Big, brooding wine at this point, with its power under wraps. Balance is excellent. Dark fruit is shy, reticent but very ripe, without going over the edge to overripe - which I would think would be a danger in this vintage. Tannins and oak have integrated and there are no hard edges to the wine. I believe the wine would really show at its best beginning in 2-3 years. Very enjoyable on Friday but will be more so in the future.
2002 Lail J. Daniel Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon - A wine that has hit its peak period in my mind. The tannins have fully integrated. The nose is of red fruits and spice primarily. On the palate, smooth, full-bodied red fruit with a slightly stewed plum note. The mid-palate is not quite as strong as I would like and the complexity a little lacking. Tastes like the ripeness was pushed a little too much to the edge. Not sure where it’s going, but I would drink up if holding. All in all, a satisfying experience generally, with the slight reservations noted.
2004 D.R. Stephens Moose Valley Cabernet Sauvignon - A powerful youngster, it has pulled together quite a bit from the last time tasted. Now it is a seamless wine, with the tannins soft and nearly fully intergrated. Deep, rich black fruits with a little bramble - the wine explodes in your mouth. Not subtle at all right now, but a powerful hedonistic experience. Would be great with a nice, juicy steak. Looks to have a few good years of this kind of enjoyment ahead of it.