We join a group of wino friends in Vermont each year in early October at a great wine destingatin in Barnard Vt. each year. Three days prior to depar ture last week I was surprised to find that I had to have my appendix remov ed! Quick laproscopy, overnight stay and of to Vermont two days later, sor e but determined. Suffice to say that I made the trip but it could have be en better. We had a plethora of wines sent ahead but the standouts were cl ear, all reds were from magnum.
2003 Leoville Poyferre-deep cassis, opulent and smooth, nice balance and so ft tannins. Still young but showing development.2002 Leoville Las Cases-Tough, tannic needing years to reach porential. I wasn't a fan but others liked it. Fair amount of rocky minerality.
1997 Opus-Clearly reaching the end. Mushroom, cassis, cigar but really dis jointed and not fun.1999 Shafer Hillside-Wow. They just don't make bad wine....ever. Rich, po lished, powerful but clean and distinct. Black fruits, multiple layers of flavors. Solid
2002 Verite La Muse-Merlot blend from Sonoma. Big, supple,plummy ripe. oak y. Nice but too much for my tastes.we had a number of other wines that were OK but given my circumstances I di dn't pay as much attention as usual. We did have two exceptional whites du ring the week and a pleasant surprise from a bottle of Port.
2009 Silex-Just incredible. This wine has become a real favorite of mine. All you would want in a world class SB. Deep citrus with vibrant minerali ty. Crisp, clean and pure.1997 Coche-Dury Meursault-A gift from our hosts at Twin Farms. Wow. Perfe ct condition. Clean citrus, a hint of butter, limestone and almonds.
1963 Fonseca Vintage Port-medium Ruby in the glass. Complex nose of raspbe rry, plum and exotic spice. Smooth and sweet yet far from cloying. Incred ible.