TN: Loads of Lambrays, plus Meursaults, Champagnes, and a Rivesaltes

SOBER gathered at Cathleen’s for a lovely tasting (not blind for a change). We started with charcuterie and some Champagne

1996 Lanson Brut Crisp, spicy, elegant mousse, long. What a nice surprise. A-

Bereche (2012 disgorgement) Brut Reserve Asian pear, citrus zest, brioche. Long and fine. A-/B+

2010 Antoine Jobard “Tillets” Meursault 1er The acids are more Chablis-like than Meursault-ish, but that’s not a bad thing. Stony, white fruit and herb notes, big and long. A-

2010 Antoine Jobard “En Barre” Meursault Funny/funky nose, hint of brett? Nice fruit, some hazelnut B

There was a lovely mushroom stew with a delicious crust

A nice lineup from Domaine des Lambrays

2009 Domaine des Lambrays “Les Loups” Morey St. Denis 1er Cru Somewhat weird nose (some called pickle juice, not to me, but a little medi cinal), a little heat (though early picked), not my fave. B-

2009 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays Ripe but not overripe, could use more zip but tasty. B

2010 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays Young but well-balanced, fresh , bright, spicy red fruits, will be very goo d. B+/A-

2005 Domaine des Lambrays “Les Loups” Morey St. Denis 1er Cru Not as elegant/focused as the GC, red fruits, earth. B+/B

2005 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays A bit tight, but you can see a real beauty underneath. Red and black cherri es, earth,a little mocha. Long and delicious. A-

Boeuf bourguignon, yum

2000 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays (mag) Lovely and ready, spicy and long. Drinking quite well (though it got better in glass). A-/B+

1999 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays This may have suffered from transport, seemed grumpy next to the ‘0

0, a bit muddled. Solid wine underneath I think B

Some cheeses

1989 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays Pretty, elegant in a high toned style. B+/A-

1988 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays Sturdy, young, a little rustic but I enjoyed. B+

1983 Domaine des Lambrays Clos des Lambrays Comparatively tired, though it actually got better in glass. A little VA, b rown sugar, but some solid cranberry fruit. B/B-

Nice lineup. Cathleen passed some cookies and a dessert wine

1978 Cazes Rivesaltes Nuts, Christmas spices, pungent. B

Great night

Grade disclaimer: I'm a very easy grader, basically A is an excellent wine, B a good wine, C drinkable. Anything below C means I wouldn't drink at a p arty where it was only choice.Furthermore, I offer no promises of objectivi ty, accuracy, and certainly not of consistency.