Weekend wrap: 2 whites and a red
Leitz Dragonstone Reisling 2005: I kind of panned this last year, but it’s in a better place now. Toned down is the fierce minerality in lieu of better overall flavor integration and depth along with some petrol-licous secondary flavors. The fruit is still going strong, with lime, green apple, and white peaches. Great with jerk chicken and coconut red-beans-and-rice.
Jean Lallement Champagne Brut NV: Shockingly aromatic - Pinot Noir-driven strawberries are the first aromas, followed by Granny Smith apples, sweet cream and puffed pastries. Grippy and very dry on the palate but so fresh and friendly…After a bit of time it was just like having an fresh baked apple pie right there in front of me. Fun and very distinctive in that it walked the line between elegance and rusticity - the nose was giving 110% while the palate was more restrained. Sexy. Would buy again. Aperitif or with cheese.
Clos de Papes, Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2001: This is not a wine to ponder, dissect, or taste - this is a wine to drink and enjoy with someone special over serious meat. Tremendous depth and lushness, but very well balanced with fresh acidity. Tannins almost imperceptibly fine and integrated. Decanted for hours - while not needed, it helped some of the earthy and herbal tones marry into the fruit. Cherries, spices galore, red raspberries, lavender, leather, cedar…etc. I could go on and on… This is world class stuff without any noticeable flaws, misgivings or shortcomings. Seek out.