Originally posted 5/08/01.
It was a friend of mine's birthday yesterday, so I decided to open something sweet to celebrate.
1996 Chteau Pierre Bise- Coteaux du Layon, "Chaume"
Nice light gold color. Both the nose and palate, while effusive, are surprisingly narrow in focus in that only intense apricot and mineral flavors and aromas are apparent. Pretty sweet, yet balanced by zippy acidity. While quite tasty, there seems to be something lacking in this wine as compared to '96 " Les Rouannaires" and "L'Anclai" bottlings. It lacks the richness and completeness of the Rouannaires, and the complexity and finesse of the L'Anclai. Perhaps it's a little shut and may have benefitted from extended airing, which it did not have. But, while quite nice, it didn't inspire. At $17 for a .500, though, it still represents excellent value. A-/B+.
It was a friend of mine's birthday yesterday, so I decided to open something sweet to celebrate.
1996 Chteau Pierre Bise- Coteaux du Layon, "Chaume"
Nice light gold color. Both the nose and palate, while effusive, are surprisingly narrow in focus in that only intense apricot and mineral flavors and aromas are apparent. Pretty sweet, yet balanced by zippy acidity. While quite tasty, there seems to be something lacking in this wine as compared to '96 " Les Rouannaires" and "L'Anclai" bottlings. It lacks the richness and completeness of the Rouannaires, and the complexity and finesse of the L'Anclai. Perhaps it's a little shut and may have benefitted from extended airing, which it did not have. But, while quite nice, it didn't inspire. At $17 for a .500, though, it still represents excellent value. A-/B+.