1991 Ridge Merlot Santa Cruz Mountains - 80% Merlot 20% Cabernet Sauvignon 29 Barrels produced 12.9% alcohol
From a block on the Jimsomare Ranch that was budded over to Merlot in the 80s.
Opens with forward aromas of early secondary development - spice, young leather, a hint of smoked meat and signature Monte Bello Ridge minerality - soft, soft entry with flavors that follow the nose with the addition of rich plumy fruit - fully integrated tannins and velvety mouthfeel - smooth follow and a long clean finish. Irresistibly drinkable and easily the most enjoyable Merlot I have ever tasted.
1989 & 1990 Chateau Beaucastel CdP - tasted together with slow braised lamb shanks.
Initially, the wines are quite similar in color and aromatics, but over time, the high percentage of Grenache in the 90 and relatively high percentage of Mourvedre in the 89 gain influence. At first, the brighter notes in the 90 are a bit more appealing with the noticeable Brett adding some interest and complexity - the 89 a bit more brooding with darker fruits in the mouth. Over time, the wines diverge even more, as the Brett in the 90 gains prominence and the 89 opens up.
Both are fine, fine examples of the estate and a fascinating study in vintage differences. On day 2, the Brett has taken over the 90, rendering it undrinkable, while the 89 cruises.
Lots o' fun.
1998 Galleron Signature Wines Merlot Milat Vineyard -
After a great decade in the 90s, Gary Galleron has been flying under the radar. He's now making wine at Bourassa Vineyards, a family owned winery located in South Napa. I hope to see him in the next few weeks to catch up.
The wine opens with lovely plum fruits and spice - clean entry with smooth tannins and supple mouthfeel - holds up through the meal, complementing the food. A very good wine from a very difficult vintage - it just needs a little more cowbell.
From a block on the Jimsomare Ranch that was budded over to Merlot in the 80s.
Opens with forward aromas of early secondary development - spice, young leather, a hint of smoked meat and signature Monte Bello Ridge minerality - soft, soft entry with flavors that follow the nose with the addition of rich plumy fruit - fully integrated tannins and velvety mouthfeel - smooth follow and a long clean finish. Irresistibly drinkable and easily the most enjoyable Merlot I have ever tasted.
1989 & 1990 Chateau Beaucastel CdP - tasted together with slow braised lamb shanks.
Initially, the wines are quite similar in color and aromatics, but over time, the high percentage of Grenache in the 90 and relatively high percentage of Mourvedre in the 89 gain influence. At first, the brighter notes in the 90 are a bit more appealing with the noticeable Brett adding some interest and complexity - the 89 a bit more brooding with darker fruits in the mouth. Over time, the wines diverge even more, as the Brett in the 90 gains prominence and the 89 opens up.
Both are fine, fine examples of the estate and a fascinating study in vintage differences. On day 2, the Brett has taken over the 90, rendering it undrinkable, while the 89 cruises.
Lots o' fun.
1998 Galleron Signature Wines Merlot Milat Vineyard -
After a great decade in the 90s, Gary Galleron has been flying under the radar. He's now making wine at Bourassa Vineyards, a family owned winery located in South Napa. I hope to see him in the next few weeks to catch up.
The wine opens with lovely plum fruits and spice - clean entry with smooth tannins and supple mouthfeel - holds up through the meal, complementing the food. A very good wine from a very difficult vintage - it just needs a little more cowbell.
