We went out last night to celebrate various things so having a gift certificate in hand we went off to Ruth's Chris. I perused the sizable list and settled on a Cornas "Very Good Sir" and after a few minutes wait the server appeared with a bottle in hand. Bottlle had a bright purplish label and was in the shape of a bordeaux "NO this is not good " my little brain screamed. I poitely inspected the proffered bottle,
"This is not a Cornas" I declared. "It is the blah blah" "you have the negciant correct but the wine is a Pays d'oc from Langedouc" "This is what my manager brought me." Now I am starting to get a little angry, this is where Lord St. Helier would have his head, but he recovers and realizes this is not an argument that he wants so he takes the bottle back and brings me the list. Ahh the Aine CdP I think and order. Manager comes out I am so sorry sir we do not have that particular wine at the moment . . . so we settle for third choice. It turns out to be an excellent one Cellar Pasanau Ceps Nous Priorat 2008 the following is a fair descriptor ecxcept I would add that the wine initially was a bit green adn explosive onthe finish but after a few minutes settled down to be the best part of the dinner. (they mixed up our steaks, but what do you expect . . .)
"Opaque purple. Initially wild and reduced on the nose but quickly gained freshness and dark fruit aromas. Juicy yet seamless blackberry and spicecake flavors are nicely firmed by zesty acidity. Primary in flavor but supple and broad, with a late note of cracked pepper. This surprisingly accessible and plush wine finishes with very good persistence."
90 PointsInternational Wine Cellar