2 Quick Picks…
Château Charmail, Haut Médoc, Bordeaux France 2003: Deeply aromatic and classically Medoc - big black currant and leather. A sweet palate - new oak influence is clearly evident, but I didn’t mind it because it was still balanced by the ripe fruits. Good acidity despite the vintage and drinking very well right out of the gates. Not great, but a good value bordeaux under $30 that would be perfect with a rib steak.
Francois Chidaine Vouvray le Bouchet 2005: An excellent Vouvray - I’ve been drinking a lot of Riesling lately, and have forgotten how much I enjoy Chenin Blanc. Wonderful green vegetables and Pink Lady apples on the nose. English peas and white asparagus soaked in really fresh apple cider. Long, juciy, mercurial, and wonderfully balanced - the sweetness of an apple with enough acidity to tame the sugar. Again with Chidaine’s wines, I have no idea how to classify the sweetness - I wouldn’t call this sweet, but I would certainly call it an excellent wine.