Bits & Pieces

HARRY'S WORLD
Harry Waugh wrote some wonderful books on his tasting notes in the late 70's / early 80's which became essential reading for this young wine-lover. He reported his travels and his notes were usually short, but concise. No beating about the bush with Harry. He visited the States regularly but never got round to Au Bon Climat as it only started in 1982. He would have enjoyed the wines of Jim Clendenen.



Au Bon Climat
Nuits-Blanches au Bouge Chardonnay 2002
California, U.S.A.
Although maybe not this one at this age. A previous bottle last year had shown very well...this offers an old gold colour and a first impression of oxidation. A large glass and a few swirls showed more of it's Burgundian character...nutty and creamy...but over 2 days that lingering sign of age deterred from full enjoyment. 'Not Jim's fault' Harry would have said and gone on to the next wine.
Points 15.5

10 YEAR KNOLL
An even older bottle of wine...with time on it's side.





Knoll Grüner Veltliner
Smaragd Ried Schütt 2000
Wachau, Austria
Aren't I on a great run regarding Grüner Veltliner...some very fine bottles recently...and this just about tops them. Old gold in colour...Knoll's style can be a matter of taste when young...they are a touch heavy. At 10 years old this a now a lighter model...bright and flowery...waxy honey...no ageing...touch of botritis...I thought dry Bordeaux for a moment...just perfect on the palate...the salty minerals mixed with some butter.
Points 17.75

PFALZ SB 2007
A very fine vintage...which should be attractive even when this young...and it is.





Knipser Kirchgarten Spätburgunder 2007
Pfalz, Germany
A wine with depth and length...the property's Cuvée X is a super wine...and although a completely different grape...this shows the style of the aforementioned. The tannins are fine and ripe...a deep colour had entered the glass...black cherry aroma with herbs and spices. Almonds on the palate...and a lingering finish. A big wine with the oak beautifully integrated.The vintage entices you...but I'll leave the second bottle to develope. Lovely wine.
Points 17.5

THE ROYAL WEDDING
Nope...it is not an invite to the Royal Wedding. It is a kind invite from the British Consulate for drinks and a T.V. showing of 'THE WEDDING'. I can't make it...but will no doubt be forced by my wife to view it at home. However...I will will able to 'escape' when it all gets too much. I wish them well...but it is 'only' a wedding!


Adeneuer Spätburgunder No. 1 2007
Ahr, Germany
Pale...orange watery rim...looks older than it is...aroma of dark fruit...earthy...tobacco...tight...showed some perfume next day...but never really outing itself. A touch disappointing.
Points 16.5