Domaine Ponsot Clos de la Roche Vieilles-Vignes 2000:
A better performance than I expected for this wine since everyone I asked for data points talked about it in comparison to the vintages prior or after it. I liked it! An elegant, almost regal nose, that I wish I could have spent more time with early, and by itself . . . unfortunately I was also enjoying a pretty outrageous hamburger with aged comté (Gruyère de Comté), black truffles, seared Foie Gras and mayo (lettuce and tomato as well, for the appearence of nutrition). The aromatics of the burger were a little overwhelming and got in the way of proper Ponsot analysis. After thrashing my dinner (I also had truffle fries!) I gave the wine its proper due.***** Rich and pure, but still not fully developed. The secondary nuances of sappy, underbrush and bramble are all there and mix well with the slightly sweet fruit. If there was a standout flaw I would say there are two minor ones. Perhaps this wines lacks a little punch on the acidity- I noticed it most as I drank and ate. And second it is a little weak on the length. I think this is what most people mentioned when they compared it to other vintages. While many suggested drinking up I would wager this wine will continue to get better for a number of years though I can’t imagine the ceiling is that high, and yes, I certainly do concede the “other” vintages are probably better. But I only had this one! Enjoy your simple data point. 91 points
*****I don’t want to suggest I just scarfed down my food and didn’t imbibe at all. I tasted, but I don’t think it was an inspired pairing.
Duval-Leroy Brut Rose Champagne Saignée NV:
Haven’t had this in a while. Still a nice, albeit simple, Rose Champagne. We tend to drink a lot of these during the summer to start our meals. A decent blend of strawbeery compote, candied ginger, vanilla and burnt toast. Nothing exceptional and, honestly, probably not the freshest bottle. 85 points
One more thing, and, IMO, not really a tradgedy . . .
Veuve Clicquot Brut 1996:
We opened two oxidized, absolutely gross bottles of this. Can’t remeber where they came from but it only reinforces an opinion I already have about this house. NR/FLAWED