Over 6 days (orginally used as a cooking wine, then sampled every day or two) the 2005 Hureau Saumur blanc is a good value if not an exciting wine. Ripe apple fruit, a light waxy note, good acidity. The amazing thing about Chenin (well, one of the amazing things) is how well it holds. On day 4 it's as lively as day 1. A little oxidative note on day 6, but still drinkable. B
I was grilling some andouille and squash, along with some leftover asparagus,and decided to open the 1995 Graillot Crozes-Hermitage, thinking the pepper spiciness of the Syrah would go well. Two problems emerged- the wine seemed somewhat flat and pepperless, and the sausage was quite hot/spicy. I rebottled most of the Rhone in a 375 screwcap, and opened the 2005 Carl Loewen "Leiwener Klostergarten" Riesling Kabinett. Citrus and flowers on the nose, a nice blend of ripe mango and zippy lime on palate. Some mineral/slate on finish, excellent length for level, very satisfying wine. B+ Will revisit the Graillot over weekend. I put most of what didn't fit in half in vinegar crock, but a little left in glass seemed to gain interest. We'll see.
With an assortment of leftovers, the 2004 Lafarge "L'Exception" Bourgogne Passetoutgrain. This was a bit of a shock when poured- easily the darkest PTG I've ever seen. Once tasted, I think I can safely say its the densest biggest PTG I've ever tasted. Rich black cherry fruit, balanced acidtiy, ripe tannins. Once I get over my surprise I quite enjoy, and enjoy it over a 5 hour period. At end still lively, though tannins have eased. If this is the 2004, what is the 2005 like? B+/A-
Grade disclaimer: I'm a very easy grader, basically A is an excellent wine, B a good wine, C mediocre. Anything below C means I wouldn't drink at a party where it was only choice. Furthermore, I offer no promises of objectivity, accuracy, and certainly not of consistency.