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SOMM&SOMM

Tag: Bordeaux

  • The Artistry of Wine

    The Artistry of Wine

    A Comparative Exploration of Rare Wines and Famous Paintings

    In the illustrious realm where the finest wines and most celebrated paintings converge, history intertwines with opulence, creating an exquisite tapestry of sensory delight. Let us delve deeper into this captivating parallel, exploring the stories behind both the rarest wines and the most iconic artworks, while shedding light on the misconceptions that often surround them.

    1986 Château Lafite Rothschild
    Mona Lisa – Leonardo da Vinci (1503)

    At the pinnacle of vinicultural artistry stands Château Lafite Rothschild, a Bordeaux First Growth whose legacy dates back to the 17th century. The visionary behind this enological masterpiece was none other than Baron James de Rothschild, whose passion for wine (specifically this wine) transformed the estate into a beacon of excellence. Similarly, the enigmatic smile of the “Mona Lisa” finds its roots in the Renaissance genius of Leonardo da Vinci, whose meticulous brushstrokes immortalized this iconic portrait in the annals of art history.

    Wine fact: While Baron James de Rothschild is credited for the well-deserved notoriety of Château Lafite [Rothschild], he didn’t purchase the estate until 13 years after the 1855 Bordeaux Classification.

    Disclosure: This post includes some affiliate links. Should you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    1971 Château Lafite Rothschild from the cellar of Club 10 member, Brian Toung. Opened in January 2019

    Reflecting on my own experiences… tasting a sip of a 1971 Château Lafite Rothschild is akin to standing before the ‘Mona Lisa’ in person – a moment of profound humility and privilege. It’s as if time stands still, and you find yourself enveloped in the sheer greatness of centuries-old craftsmanship, where each drop of wine or stroke of the brush whispers secrets of the past.

    In those fleeting moments, one feels not only the weight of history but also the immense privilege of bearing witness to such timeless magnificence.

    Gregory Dean, SOMM&SOMM
    Westgarth Wines

    Spotlight: Westgarth Wines is a great source for hard-to-find varietals and vintages. Whether building your wine portfolio or planning a special evening, check out Westgarth Wines Extensive Fine Wine Collection.

    On the other hand, the ethereal elixir of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti traces its origins to the esteemed vineyards of Burgundy, where generations of vignerons have toiled to produce the quintessential Pinot Noir. The guardians of this hallowed terroir, the Leroy and de Villaine families, have upheld a tradition of excellence that rivals the timeless beauty of Vincent van Gogh‘s “Starry Night.” Just as van Gogh’s swirling cosmos mesmerize viewers with their transcendent beauty, so too does the intricate tapestry of flavors in Domaine de la Romanée-Conti transport the imbiber to celestial realms of sensory delight.

    Romanée-Conti
    Starry Nights – Vincent van Gogh (1889)

    Yet, amidst the rarified air of exclusivity, lies a misconception that often plagues the world of wine: the notion of the wine snob. This caricature, with its airs of superiority and exclusivity, fails to capture the true essence of wine appreciation. In reality, a genuine wine aficionado possesses a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into every bottle, much like an art connoisseur admires the brushstrokes of a master painter. Both seek to unravel the mysteries and complexities that lie within their chosen medium, finding joy in the journey of discovery.

    In contrast, the world of more accessible wines parallels the realm of mainstream art, where familiar classics reign supreme. Wines such as Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon or Italian Chianti embody widespread appeal and approachability, much like the iconic works of Pablo Picasso or Claude Monet. Just as art aficionados find solace in the timeless beauty of a Van Gogh or a Monet, wine enthusiasts take pleasure in the familiar embrace of a well-crafted Merlot or Sauvignon Blanc.

    SOMM&SOMM Recommends: Napa Valley Silver Oak

    SOMM&SOMM Recommends: Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon

    The Water-Lily Pond – Claude Monet (1899)
    The Old Guitarist – Pablo Picasso (1903-1904)

    In conclusion, whether indulging in the rarefied elixirs of Château Lafite Rothschild or savoring the everyday pleasures of a Napa Valley Cabernet, both wine and art serve as conduits to a world of sensory delight. Through their boundless beauty and infinite complexity, they enrich our lives, inviting us to explore the depths of human creativity and expression. Cheers 🍷

  • From Piccolos to Melchizedeks: A Journey Through Wine Bottle Sizes

    From Piccolos to Melchizedeks: A Journey Through Wine Bottle Sizes

    Wine, that elixir of joy and conviviality, comes in an array of bottle sizes, each with its own charm, lore, and, of course, capacity for merry-making. From the dainty Piccolo to the colossal Melchizedek, these vessels not only hold liquid pleasure but also carry with them stories of tradition, history, and the whimsy of human creativity.

    Photo by Grape Things on Pexels.com

    Piccolo (187.5 ml): Tiny But Mighty – Ah, the Piccolo, a darling among the bottles, containing just enough to tantalize the taste buds with a whisper of wine. Perfect for solo soirées or a spontaneous toast to oneself.

    Demi (375 ml): Half the Fun – The Demi is like a halfway house for wine enthusiasts, offering a modest pour that’s just enough for a cozy tête-à-tête or an intimate dinner for two. It’s the Goldilocks of bottles—not too much, not too little, just right.

    Jennie (500 ml): A Unique Gem – Named after the esteemed Jennie Churchill, mother of Winston, this bottle size is a rarity, often seen in German wine regions. It’s a splendid choice for those who desire a touch more than a Demi but not quite as much as a Standard.

    Standard (750 ml): The Classic Choice – The Standard, a familiar sight on wine shelves worldwide, is the quintessential bottle size for sharing and savoring with friends. It’s the standard-bearer of wine bottle dimensions, offering just enough liquid happiness to go around.

    Liter (1 liter): One for the Road – When a Standard bottle simply won’t suffice, enter the Liter. Popular in certain regions for everyday wines, it’s a practical choice for those who enjoy their wine by the liter rather than by the glass.

    Magnum (1.5 liters): Double the Pleasure – Behold, the Magnum! This bottle exudes an air of celebration, containing the equivalent of two Standards. It’s said that wine in Magnum format ages more gracefully, perhaps due to its larger volume minimizing the ratio of oxygen to wine.

    Jeroboam (3 liters): Royally Grand – Named after the biblical figure, King Jeroboam, this bottle commands attention with its regal presence. While its size can vary between regions, it generally holds the equivalent of four Standards, making it ideal for larger gatherings or extended revelry.

    Rehoboam (4.5 liters): A Bordeaux Beauty – In Bordeaux, where wine flows like the Garonne River, the Rehoboam reigns supreme. Named after Jeroboam’s son, it holds the equivalent of six Standards and is often seen gracing grand feasts and celebrations in the region.

    Sommelier and host, Scott White, serving sparkling wine from a Methuselah (6-liter bottle)

    Methuselah (6 liters): Age Before Beauty – As the name suggests, the Methuselah is ancient in size, holding the equivalent of eight Standards. Its larger volume allows for slower aging and development, making it a prized possession for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

    Salmanazar (9 liters): Fit for a Sultan – Named after the Assyrian king, Salmanazar, this colossal vessel contains the equivalent of twelve Standards. It’s a sight to behold and a challenge to pour, reserved for the most extravagant of celebrations or the grandest of cellars.

    Balthazar (12 liters): A Feast for the Senses – In biblical lore, Balthazar was one of the Three Wise Men, and this bottle size certainly lives up to its name. With the capacity of sixteen Standards, it’s a testament to abundance and generosity, fit for kings and queens of oenology.

    Nebuchadnezzar (15 liters): A Monumental Marvel – The Nebuchadnezzar, named after the legendary Babylonian king, is a behemoth among bottles. Holding the equivalent of twenty Standards, it’s a symbol of opulence and extravagance, reserved for the most lavish of affairs.

    Melchior (18 liters): Majestic Magnificence – In Bordeaux, where grandeur is a way of life, the Melchior reigns supreme. Named after one of the Three Wise Men, it holds the equivalent of twenty-four Standards, embodying the epitome of luxury and excess.

    Solomon (20 liters): Wisdom in Wine – With the wisdom of King Solomon himself, this grand bottle contains the equivalent of twenty-six Standards. It’s a testament to the ancient adage that good things come in large packages, perfect for bestowing blessings upon a bountiful banquet.

    Sovereign (25 liters): Rule with Revelry – Fit for a sovereign indeed, this colossal vessel holds the equivalent of thirty-three Standards. It’s a statement piece, a showstopper, and a symbol of power and prestige, reserved for the most illustrious of occasions.

    Primat (27 liters): Primed for Celebration – Named for its primacy in size, the Primat holds the equivalent of thirty-six Standards. It’s a titan among bottles, commanding attention and admiration wherever it appears, a true champion of indulgence and festivity.

    Melchizedek (30 liters): The Ultimate Libation – And finally, we arrive at the pièce de résistance, the Melchizedek. Named after the biblical figure who was both a king and a priest, this colossal container holds the equivalent of forty Standards. It’s a wine lover’s wildest dream, a spectacle of grandeur and excess, and a testament to the boundless possibilities of human ingenuity.

    So there you have it, a whimsical journey through the world of wine bottle sizes, where every cork has a story and every pour is an adventure. Cheers to the wonderful, wacky world of wine! 🍷

  • Wine Styles: Late Harvest Wines

    Wine Styles: Late Harvest Wines

    Late harvest wines represent a pinnacle of winemaking craftsmanship, showcasing the artful balance between sweetness and acidity. These wines are crafted from grapes left on the vine longer than usual, allowing them to ripen further and intensify their flavors. Late harvest wines come in various styles, each offering a unique tasting experience. Among them, the influence of noble rot (botrytis) on certain grapes adds an extra layer of complexity and richness.

    Styles of Late Harvest Wines

    Lur Saluces Chateau de Fargues – Photo Credit: Fred Swan, JJBuckley.com

    Sauternes (France)

    Sauternes is an iconic late harvest wine from the Bordeaux region of France. It is primarily made from Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes. The grapes are affected by botrytis cinerea, a fungus that concentrates the sugars and flavors, resulting in a luscious, honeyed wine with vibrant acidity. Château d’Yquem is the most renowned producer of Sauternes.

    SOMM&SOMM recommends: Chateau Suduiraut Sauternes

    Trockenbeerenauslese (Germany)

    In Germany, Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) wines are produced from individually selected, overripe grapes affected by noble rot. These wines are intensely sweet, with high levels of sugar and acidity. Riesling is the predominant grape variety, and TBAs are often considered some of the finest expressions of German winemaking.

    SOMM&SOMM recommends: 2019 Alois Kracher Trockenbeerenauslese No. 4 Zweigelt

    Eiswein (Canada and Germany)

    Ice wine (Canada) is made from grapes that have naturally frozen on the vine. The grapes are harvested and pressed while still frozen, extracting only the concentrated sugars. Canadian Ice Wine, particularly from the Niagara Peninsula, is renowned for its balanced sweetness and acidity. Germany also produces Eiswein using a similar method.

    SOMM&SOMM recommends: Dr. Loosen Riesling Eiswein

    Vin Santo (Italy)

    In Italy, Vin Santo is a traditional Tuscan late harvest wine made from white grapes like Trebbiano and Malvasia. The grapes are dried on straw mats before pressing, leading to a rich and nutty wine. Vin Santo is often enjoyed as a dessert wine, accompanied by biscotti. On a related note, Vin Santo is the traditional wine used in a classic Tuscany-style Tiramisù.

    Botrytis Cinerea and Its Impact

    Botrytis cinerea, commonly known as noble rot, plays a crucial role in the production of some of the world’s finest sweet wines. This beneficial fungus pierces the grape skin, allowing water to evaporate and concentrating sugars and flavors. In addition to enhancing sweetness, noble rot imparts distinctive honey, apricot, and botrytized character to the wine.

    Dessert Pairings for Late Harvest Wines

    Roquefort Cheese – Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Pexels.com

    Sauternes: Foie Gras and Roquefort Cheese

    Sauternes pairs wonderfully with rich and savory flavors. Foie gras, with its buttery texture and complex taste, complements the sweetness of Sauternes. Roquefort, a blue cheese with a bold flavor profile, creates a delightful contrast that highlights the wine’s acidity.

       Recipe: Foie Gras with Sauternes Reduction

       – Sear foie gras slices in a hot pan until golden.

       – Deglaze the pan with Sauternes, reducing it to a syrupy consistency.

       – Drizzle the reduction over the foie gras and serve with toasted brioche.

    Trockenbeerenauslese: Peach Melba

    The vibrant acidity of Trockenbeerenauslese cuts through the richness of a classic Peach Melba. The combination of poached peaches, vanilla ice cream, and raspberry sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

       Recipe: Trockenbeerenauslese Poached Peaches

       – Poach peaches in Trockenbeerenauslese, sugar, and vanilla.

       – Serve the peaches over vanilla ice cream and drizzle with a raspberry sauce.

    Ice Wine: Apple Tarte Tatin

    The natural sweetness of Ice Wine complements the caramelized apples in a classic Tarte Tatin. The acidity in the wine balances the dish, creating a delightful contrast.

       Recipe: Ice Wine Caramel Sauce

       – Reduce Ice Wine in a pan until syrupy.

       – Combine with melted butter and brown sugar for a decadent caramel sauce.

    Pecorino Cheese – Rlucia, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Vin Santo: Cantuccini and Pecorino Cheese

    Vin Santo’s nutty and caramelized notes find a perfect match in the crunchy sweetness of Cantuccini (Italian almond biscuits). Pair it with Pecorino cheese for a delightful Tuscan experience.

       Recipe: Homemade Cantuccini

       – Mix almonds, flour, sugar, and eggs to form a dough.

       – Shape into logs, bake, and slice into biscotti. Serve with Vin Santo.

    Late harvest wines, with their diverse styles and intricate flavors, offer a captivating journey for wine enthusiasts. Whether it’s the noble rot-infused complexity of Sauternes or the intense sweetness of Trockenbeerenauslese, these wines are a testament to the artistry of winemakers. Paired with classic desserts, the experience becomes a symphony of taste, revealing the cultural and culinary richness that surrounds these exceptional wines. Cheers to the indulgence of late harvest wines and the delightful moments they create! 🍷

  • Old World Regions: Bordeaux

    Old World Regions: Bordeaux

    Bordeaux is a timeless elixir of history, terroir, and tradition. It’s a name that resonates with wine enthusiasts worldwide and is synonymous with excellence in winemaking. Nestled along the serene banks of the Garonne River in southwestern France, the Bordeaux wine region is a hallowed ground for cork dorks ;), boasting a rich history, distinct terroirs, and a complex classification system that sets it apart as one of the world’s foremost wine-producing regions.

    A Glimpse into Bordeaux’s Enigmatic Past

    Bordeaux’s history as a wine-producing region dates back to Roman times when the first vineyards were planted. However, it was during the 12th century, under the rule of Eleanor of Aquitaine and her marriage to Henry II of England, that Bordeaux wines gained international recognition. The English became avid consumers of Bordeaux wines, creating a demand that laid the foundation for Bordeaux’s global reputation.

    “…you are not to conclude I am a drinker. My measure is a perfectly sober 3 or 4 glasses at dinner, and not a drop at any other time. But as to those 3 or 4 glasses I am very fond.”

    Thomas Jefferson

    During the 17th century, Dutch engineers drained the marshlands and introduced a more systematic approach to winemaking, paving the way for Bordeaux’s vineyards to thrive. In the 18th century, Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, became an ardent admirer of Bordeaux wines, further elevating their prestige. I had the opportunity several years ago to ogle over (look but don’t touch) two bottles from Jefferson’s collection. The bottles were locked inside a wire cage, covered in dust, each donning a small white price tag–$20,000. 

    Left Bank vs. Right Bank: A Tale of Two Terroirs

    One of the key distinctions in Bordeaux lies in its geographical diversity, which results in two distinct terroirs: the Left Bank and the Right Bank. Here is the breakdown…

    Left Bank

    – Located to the west of the Gironde Estuary and the Garonne River.

    – Predominantly features Cabernet Sauvignon as the dominant grape variety.

    – Famous appellations include the Médoc, Pauillac, Margaux, and Saint-Julien.

    – Produces wines known for their structured, tannic character and aging potential.

    Right Bank

    – Situated to the east of the Gironde Estuary and the Dordogne River.

    – Merlot is the primary grape variety, complemented by Cabernet Franc and sometimes Malbec.

    – Renowned appellations include Saint-Émilion and Pomerol.

    – Produces wines characterized by their elegance, supple texture, and approachability in their youth.

    Bordeaux Region in Southwest France

    Bordeaux’s Classifications: A Pyramid of Prestige

    Bordeaux boasts a complex classification system, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to its wines. The most famous classifications include:

    1. Bordeaux AOC:

       – The base level of classification, offering wines that showcase Bordeaux’s classic characteristics.

       – These wines can come from anywhere within the Bordeaux region and are typically approachable and affordable.

    2. Bordeaux Supérieur AOC:

       – A step above the Bordeaux AOC, with stricter quality control standards.

       – Often produced from older vines, resulting in more concentrated flavors.

    3. Médoc and Graves Classifications:

       – Within the Médoc and Graves regions, several châteaux are classified as Cru Bourgeois or Cru Artisan, signifying wines of consistently high quality.

    4. Saint-Émilion Classification:

       – Saint-Émilion has a unique classification system that is revised periodically.

       – It includes three main categories: Grand Cru Classé, Premier Grand Cru Classé “B,” and Premier Grand Cru Classé “A.”

       – These classifications indicate the quality and prestige of the wineries.

    5. 1855 Classification of the Médoc:

       – Arguably the most famous classification in Bordeaux, it was established for the Exposition Universelle de Paris.

       – Divided into five growths or “crus,” with the Premier Cru being the highest tier.

       – Châteaux such as Château Margaux and Château Latour hold this esteemed title.

    The complete list of all five first growths include:

    1. Château Latour
    2. Château Lafite Rothschild
    3. Château Margaux
    4. Château Haut Brion
    5. Château Mouton Rothschild

    Bordeaux’s intricate classification system reflects the region’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the quality and reputation of its wines.

    Bordeaux’s allure lies in its rich history, diverse terroirs, and complex classification system. Whether you’re sipping a bold Cabernet Sauvignon from the Left Bank or enjoying the velvety embrace of a Merlot-based wine from the Right Bank, Bordeaux offers a wine experience like no other. Its journey from ancient Roman vineyards to its present-day global prestige is a testament to the enduring artistry and craftsmanship of Bordeaux winemakers. With each bottle, Bordeaux encapsulates centuries of tradition, making it an enduring and timeless elixir for wine lovers around the world.

    Cheers 😉

  • Wine Experiences: Chateau Margaux

    Wine Experiences: Chateau Margaux

    In the illustrious world of fine wines, few names evoke as much reverence and admiration as Chateau Margaux (my favorite first growth). Nestled in the heart of Bordeaux’s famed Margaux appellation, this historic estate has consistently produced wines of unparalleled grace and distinction. Among the numerous exceptional vintages that have emerged from its cellars, the 1977 Chateau Margaux stands as a shining example of Bordeaux’s timeless elegance and the estate’s unwavering commitment to excellence.

    During a routine gathering of five wine-loving couples–appropriately named Club 10–one particular label stood out. While it isn’t unusual for wine-enthusiasts Brian and Erin Toung to share rare and unusual wines from their extensive collection, we knew right away that this night was going to be special. All of the wines were spectacular, and the 1977 Chateau Margaux provided by the Brian and Erin Toung lived up its reputation.

    Club 10 – August 18, 2023 at the home of Mike and Patti Weber

    History of Chateau Margaux

    Chateau Margaux’s legacy dates back to the 12th century when the property was first cultivated as a vineyard. However, it wasn’t until the 17th century that it began to gain prominence under the ownership of the Marquise de la Colonilla. Under her careful stewardship, Chateau Margaux rose to prominence, earning the moniker “The Pearl of Bordeaux.”

    Throughout its storied history, the estate has changed hands several times but always maintained its reputation for producing some of the world’s finest wines. The modern era ushered in a new era of precision winemaking under the guidance of André Mentzelopoulos, and later, his daughter Corinne Mentzelopoulos, who continues to oversee the estate today.

    The 1977 Vintage: A Snapshot in Time

    The 1977 Chateau Margaux vintage occupies a unique place in the estate’s annals. While not as legendary as some of the earlier vintages, such as the 1961 or the 1982, it remains a fascinating chapter in Chateau Margaux’s history. This vintage was marked by a temperate growing season with a mild summer, resulting in wines that exhibit a graceful finesse rather than raw power.

    Tasting Notes from a Sommelier’s Perspective

    The cork quickly disintegrated during several attempts to release it from its stable home of 46 years. After a slow ritual-like decanting, it was time to indulge 😉

    Aroma: Upon pouring a glass of the 1977 Chateau Margaux, I was immediately greeted by a symphony of aromas. Delicate notes of dried flowers, violet, and rose petals danced alongside more profound scents of blackcurrant, plum, and cherry. The bouquet was enchanting and seductive, showcasing the wine’s maturity with grace.

    Palate: On the palate, the wine continued to captivate with its finesse. The tannins had softened over the years, providing a silky texture that caressed the tongue. While the fruit had mellowed, it remained vibrant, revealing flavors of blackberry, cedar, tobacco, and subtle hints of leather. There was a lovely balance between the fruit and tertiary notes, making it a delight to savor.

    Structure: The 1977 Chateau Margaux maintained an impeccable structure. It had a medium body with a long, elegant finish that leaves a trail of subtle spices and a touch of minerality. The wine’s acidity was still remarkably fresh, providing a sense of vitality that belies its age.

    Pairing: This vintage calls for equally refined and nuanced cuisine. It paired perfectly with the French-inspired dishes meticulously prepared by our Club 10 hosts, Mike and Patti Weber. The wine’s elegance and complexity complemented these dishes beautifully.

    An Experience Like No Other

    The 1977 Chateau Margaux is a testament to the timeless allure of Bordeaux’s Margaux appellation and the unwavering commitment to quality at Chateau Margaux. While it may not be the most famous vintage from this legendary estate, it offed a unique opportunity to experience the grace and finesse that have made Chateau Margaux a household name among wine connoisseurs. With its mature aromas, silky palate, and impeccable structure, the 1977 Chateau Margaux continues to captivate the senses and remind us of the enduring excellence that defines this historic winery. Thanks Brian and Erin!

  • Wine Experiences: A Taste of Pauillac

    Wine Experiences: A Taste of Pauillac

    There could not have been a better way to experience the Left Bank of Bordeaux than with a vertical tasting of Pauillac’s Château Haut-Bages Libéral. The highly revered Pauillac region is located between Saint-Estèphe and Saint-Julien on the Médoc peninsula, and boasts three (3) of the five (5) Premiers Crus (first growths) of the 1855 Classification.

    Château Haut-Brion, Pessac, AOC Pessac-Léognan

    Château Lafite-Rothschild, Pauillac, AOC Pauillac

    Château Latour, Pauillac, AOC Pauillac

    Château Margaux, Margaux, AOC Margaux

    Château Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, AOC Pauillac (added in 1973)

    The estate of Haut-Bages Libéral spans 74 acres growing 70% of cabernet-sauvignon and 30% of merlot varietals. All of the vintages in our two-decade vertical tasting were of similar cabernet-to-merlot blends. The ratios ranged from 65% cabernet-35% merlot of the 2000 vintage, to the 75% cabernet-25% merlot of the 2006 vintage. While this doesn’t seem like much of a variation, the differences in each vintage were not subtle.

    Our very ambitious hosts–Dima and Oksana–planned to share their 2000, 2006, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2018 vintages in this epic vertical tasting. Even though we were 6 wine enthusiasts strong (Dima, Oksana, Mike, Patti, Greg, Tammy), our lofty intentions fell short of achieving this 7 vintage tasting. This was due in part to our 2 bottle comparison of dry white Bordeaux wines from the Sauternes region (sticking with the Left Bank theme) at the beginning, but mostly because we had no intention of spitting these amazing Pauillac wines into a spittoon. We did, however, compare and contrast 6 of the 7 vintages 😉

    2000 Château Haut-Bages Libéral

    First up was the 2000 Château Haut-Bages Libéral. This wine was very special. At 21 years young, it was in perfect condition. The taste was soft and elegant. I was very impressed by the vivid color and density of this wine. It would be difficult (for me at least) to identify this as an older wine based only on the color. The aromas included leather, tobacco and pepper as expected. Certainly a wine worthy of its name and reputation.

    Comprised of a blend of 65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% merlot, this wine stood up to the grilled and barbecued meats, flavorful salads and herb infused side dished graciously provided by our hosts.

    We jumped ahead 6 vintage years and tasted a 2006 Château Haut-Bages Libéral. The blend was 75% cabernet sauvignon and 25% merlot. This vintage was more aromatic than the previous wine. It offered less of the characteristic leather, earth and tobacco, and more fruit and spice on the nose. The taste was bold and intense, but very well balanced. It deserved a second glass!

    Third in our journey was a 2011 Château Haut-Bages Libéral. This was the first vintage of the evening that revealed a slight hint of smoke on the nose (and no, the barbecue wasn’t skewing my senses). Perhaps a characteristic more predominate in vintages challenged by poor growing conditions. The 2011 season was unusually dry and hot. Regardless, the wine was amazing, well balanced, and perfect with or without food. The blend was 72% cabernet sauvignon and 28% merlot.

    We continued the process of see, swirl, sniff, sip and savor with the fourth wine in the line-up. The 2014 Château Haut-Bages Libéral is made from a blend of 71% cabernet sauvignon and 29% merlot. It was the first of 3 sequential vintages (2014, 2015, 2016). Convinced by the condition and complexity of the 2000 vintage, I can imagine that these younger wines can only get better (if that’s possible). This wine was very smooth, but exposed more tannin than the older vintages. Nevertheless, it was well rounded yet complex.

    According to the winemaker’s notes, the 2015 Château Haut-Bages Libéral vintage was challenging. The weather conditions resulted in lower yields. The blend was 65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% merlot (same as the 2000 vintage). The tasting notes, however, are uniquely 2015. While this vintage shared some of the same characteristics of the previous wines, there are several more-than-subtle differences. The tobacco aromas were present, but different. Instead of an earthy, rustic tobacco… this vintage expressed a floral-esc tobacco scent. Think: pipe tobacco versus a cigar. The 2015 vintage also seemed slightly more acidic than the others.

    Number six was the 2016 Château Haut-Bages Libéral. This wine is made from a blend of 70% cabernet sauvignon and 30% merlot–aligning perfectly with the vineyard’s planting ratio. The black and red fruit aromas were more pronounced in this vintage. This wine is very special! The flavors are bold and intense, but at the same time soft and balanced (yes, I was surprised too). This is the perfect wine to share with someone who loves California big reds, but not a fan of Bordeaux wines.

    From there we rounded out the evening with an amazing 2012 Château Voigny dessert wine from Sauternes and homemade desserts. The evening was truly epic! Our friends, Dima and Oksana, made this night entertaining, educational and legendary. Who knew learning could be so much fun? The information they provided in support of these wines was very detailed and enlightening. This was the first time we’d had an opportunity to participate in a vertical that spanned over 2 decades. Couldn’t imagine anything better. Thanks Dima and Oksana!