Search found 222 matches

by alchemeus
Thu Mar 31, 2011 11:49 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Vintage or Producer?
Replies: 27
Views: 3879

Re: Vintage or Producer?

Really??? I'll refer you back to the original post, alch: something along the lines of "tips for ordering wine in a restaurant ". Into this context, I'm pretty sure you introduced "then there is Importer. Some importers I trust even if an unknown wine." SO, I suggested that anyo...
by alchemeus
Mon Mar 28, 2011 12:54 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Vintage or Producer?
Replies: 27
Views: 3879

Re: Vintage or Producer?

Tom In DC wrote:I'll give a score of 110 to anyone who can tell the importer of an unknown wine in a restaurant!
I have no idea what this means. However, I'll trust Kysela to import a good wine.

Tell an importer???? Whatever. Impossibility craziness.

Tom, sometimes you say the funniest things.
by alchemeus
Mon Mar 28, 2011 12:21 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN : wines from the last days
Replies: 5
Views: 535

Re: TN : wines from the last days

Uncle Nicklass?

Well, well, responsibility increases uncle!

Congrats to you and brother or sister.

Teach them well.
by alchemeus
Mon Mar 28, 2011 12:17 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Four white burgs
Replies: 9
Views: 814

Re: Four white burgs

Price nor reputation can give the best expression. Nice the less expensive wine was the best to your palate. I find that sometimes also.
by alchemeus
Mon Mar 28, 2011 12:09 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: The 2000 Duhart-Milon-Rothschild is uncorked
Replies: 14
Views: 1304

Re: The 2000 Duhart-Milon-Rothschild is uncorked

Looks like a grand place to have elk regularly. Best meat I've had. Maybe because it's so rare here. Some thousands in Penn now, and even Bison as far south as North Carolina. Hopefully growth of the herds.

Grand view. Envy your home.
by alchemeus
Sun Mar 27, 2011 11:49 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Vintage or Producer?
Replies: 27
Views: 3879

Re: Vintage or Producer?

This is hard. Hmmm, all has plusses and minusses, then there is Importer. Some importers I trust even if an unknown wine. Some years are so excellent it doesn't really matter (if you want just a good wine). Some bad years a great producer will still make a great wine. You have to pay for it though. ...
by alchemeus
Sun Mar 27, 2011 11:45 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: What was your first full case purchase?
Replies: 25
Views: 4364

Re: What was your first full case purchase?

First full case purchase was some Penfold's blend, forgot the name now. $72. One of the better wines I'd had at that time. It got worse over the years especially after the Take Over. Haven't even tried it in oh, 10+ years.
by alchemeus
Sun Mar 27, 2011 11:40 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: The 2000 Duhart-Milon-Rothschild is uncorked
Replies: 14
Views: 1304

Re: The 2000 Duhart-Milon-Rothschild is uncorked

Looks like the Rockies, Hound, where are you?
by alchemeus
Sun Mar 27, 2011 11:37 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Age disclaimer
Replies: 6
Views: 561

It's actually kinda funny. "What, I've got grey hair (balding, what-not)...?!? I give them props.
by alchemeus
Thu Feb 24, 2011 12:30 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Wines with stefanJr
Replies: 2
Views: 330

Re: Wines with stefanJr

Doncha just love it when a kept wine delivers? Congrats! 1975, my first year at University, 36 years ago.

Damn! I'm getting old.
by alchemeus
Wed Feb 23, 2011 11:55 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN : 2004 Travaglini Giancarlo Riserva Gattinara
Replies: 3
Views: 331

Re: TN : 2004 Travaglini Giancarlo Riserva Gattinara

Last Monday, i opened a bottle of the 2004 Travaglini Giancarlo Riserva Gattinara . The AOC Gattinara is not well known, but it is a wine made from nebbiolo, a little bit north of Barolo/Barbaresco. I bought a bottle, as it has a lower price than the two stars of Piedmont, and that AOC was supposel...
by alchemeus
Wed Feb 23, 2011 11:47 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: weather, not wine specifically
Replies: 3
Views: 372

Re: weather, not wine specifically

Yeah, it has been another brutal winter up here. Cold as a witch's nipple. "Colder than a witch's tit..." with add-ons a common descriptor. "in a brass bra" most common. Low of 14 this AM, no telling how cold in Maine. The official temps for the entire DC area are taken from the...
by alchemeus
Tue Feb 22, 2011 11:53 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: weather, not wine specifically
Replies: 3
Views: 372

weather, not wine specifically

OK. Last Winter we got pounded. 19 inches then 12 inches plus the big 27 incher, and 4 inches here and 6 inches there and what not. This year dry, South and North of us pounded while we escaped with a total thus far of 18 inches of snow give or take. 2 or so today with a quarter of an inch of underl...
by alchemeus
Tue Feb 22, 2011 11:32 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: newer Bordeaux
Replies: 21
Views: 2690

Re: newer Bordeaux

BordeauxKassett wrote:I've had the 99 Palmer and it appeared to me as green, unripe, slightly unpleasant, with coaly/petrol'y nose. Could maybe be good in a 10-15 years, but don't even think about opening one now IMHO.
Not my experience at all. But then, bottles is bottles.
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 20, 2011 1:26 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN: Cousino Macul Antiquas Riserva 2008
Replies: 10
Views: 1084

Re: TN: Cousino Macul Antiquas Riserva 2008

Cousino Macul Antiguas Riserva 2008 This wine threw me a little, and I'd appreciate any comments from people who know the wine or the style that I've seemingly misunderstood or have little experience with that was present in this wine. Let's just say that the only wine that I've ever had that was s...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 20, 2011 1:21 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Controversy in new Wine Spectator
Replies: 7
Views: 700

Re: Controversy in new Wine Spectator

Never tried any top end Bordeaux after say, 2001. But did have several 2002 unclassifieds. At $12-$15 blew away the competition, though several local wineries started producing good wines at the $15 range. Better than any equivalent priced wine from Cal though. Haven't tried an Oz in years. Cousino ...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 20, 2011 1:15 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Cheap v. Good wine...
Replies: 9
Views: 836

Re: Cheap v. Good wine...

I use cheap to mean badly made, high in sulfites, unbalanced sweet wines, good to mean what we usually drink. When we go out to a restaurant where the wines are cheap but included in the menu, I try them to see if there are gems. Invariably they are not but Mayuko tries them as well. And inevitably...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 20, 2011 1:10 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Calibration for my recent tasting notes
Replies: 0
Views: 218

Calibration for my recent tasting notes

If you're concerned. It's been a rather cold, if dry Winter here. Less than 24 inches of snow but cold. Still a few inches in the north yard even with several days recently near 70. Today it got to 54.

Just checked. Passive cellar at 61.5F
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 20, 2011 12:59 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: newer Bordeaux
Replies: 21
Views: 2690

Re: newer Bordeaux

JonoB wrote:99 Palmer is one of those legends I am still waiting to try! I hope I have the chance soon!
Well, if it holds out, be one of the few 'legends' I've had. But honestly, you could be satisfied with the nose on this wine.
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 20, 2011 12:57 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: newer Bordeaux
Replies: 21
Views: 2690

Re: newer Bordeaux

Alch - thanks for the update - I agree Palmer 1999 is a beauty...but I dont think it is close to being ready yet...but that nose...you coudl sniff it until the cows come home Is the 1998 Clos De Papes ready to drink? Could it do with more time? Also any one had Beaucastel 1998 recently? I hear very...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 20, 2011 12:55 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: newer Bordeaux
Replies: 21
Views: 2690

Re: newer Bordeaux

The 2000 GPL is surely not ready. Try some right bank 2000s instead. Some of them are very nice now even if still on the up slope. '99 Palmer is a gem, yes? I agree. The GPL my be in recession now, love the earthiness and it is drinkable, just not exciting. Not really closed as it does exhibit the ...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 20, 2011 12:52 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: newer Bordeaux
Replies: 21
Views: 2690

Re: newer Bordeaux

Thanks for your notes. I always try to promote lesser-known Bordeaux, as well as wines from so-called off vintages. I went to an off-line with memebers of the Wine Lovers Discussion Group a couple of years ago, and the wine I brought was 99 Palmer. It was absolutely lovely and, I hope proved my poi...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 20, 2011 12:49 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: newer Bordeaux
Replies: 21
Views: 2690

Re: newer Bordeaux

Alch - thanks for the update - I agree Palmer 1999 is a beauty...but I dont think it is close to being ready yet...but that nose...you coudl sniff it until the cows come home Is the 1998 Clos De Papes ready to drink? Could it do with more time? Also any one had Beaucastel 1998 recently? I hear very...
by alchemeus
Fri Feb 18, 2011 2:55 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: newer Bordeaux
Replies: 21
Views: 2690

newer Bordeaux

Just a few. 1999 Palmer Very floral on the nose. Just lovely. Ready? No idea. 2000 D'Issan Loads of sediment. Not very 'Margaux' at this stage, but very nice and drinkable. 2000 GPL Earthy. Smooth but earthy. Not much else but earthy, mushrooms and such. Not ready? 1998 Clos du Pape Nice, smooth, co...
by alchemeus
Fri Feb 18, 2011 2:40 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN: Cousino Macul Antiquas Riserva 2008
Replies: 10
Views: 1084

Re: TN: Cousino Macul Antiquas Riserva 2008

South American wine. Chile?

Usually very good.

Great value.
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 13, 2011 3:28 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN: Friday night drinks!
Replies: 4
Views: 556

Re: TN: Friday night drinks!

Alchemus, Yes, and in the 86 in hindsight (provenance perhaps) there was a worrying lack of fruit. I like my wines older, but I want them to have fruit and mature characters at the same time...and to be fresh. Nothing worse than fruitless, woody, tannic wines. The 70 is a much riper and richer vint...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 13, 2011 1:45 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN: Friday night drinks!
Replies: 4
Views: 556

Re: TN: Friday night drinks!

1970 Nenin and a 1986 La Mission. Fine and must have been fun. I don't care for older wines myself, got to be a point when they go downhill, but as long on uphill slope, fine. 41 years on, WOW. Honestly. Any fruit left would be an amazing vintage, and wine making. I remember the 1900 Margaux (wasn't...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 13, 2011 1:26 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN: Chateau Serilhan 2006 St. Estephe
Replies: 10
Views: 2644

Re: TN: Chateau Serilhan 2006 St. Estephe

Heck, I can't afford most 2nd wines anymore. Not like I used to any way. Hell, I've bought Margaux and Haut-Brion at $99. The First wines. No longer.
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 13, 2011 1:03 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN 2002 Clerc Milon
Replies: 12
Views: 1370

Re: TN 2002 Clerc Milon

Lol... Well, 2002L is my vintage of the new century, if you treat 2000 as part of the last century. I've enjoyed many Bordeaux from this vintage. Surprised me somewhat. Many of the less expensive/unknown chateaux. 2000 is an awesome vintage across the board. Hope so, haven't popped any yet but have...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 13, 2011 12:34 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN 2002 Clerc Milon
Replies: 12
Views: 1370

Re: TN 2002 Clerc Milon

Jim, so how many Vintages of the Century are there?
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 13, 2011 12:29 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Question re Gironde/Garonne
Replies: 14
Views: 1512

Re: Question re Gironde/Garonne

JimHow wrote:Yes, it was really stupid. But knocked over gravestones makes for a great visual in the newspaper.
Ergo the American Experience. Sad.

No wonder we as the USA are not as respected around the world as we once were. We are now seen as idiots.
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 13, 2011 12:13 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Question re Gironde/Garonne
Replies: 14
Views: 1512

Re: Question re Gironde/Garonne

Man, I'm telling you Alch, life is so short and there's so much to do! My latest client, a 20 year old kid who knocked over 100 gravestones in a cemetary with a couple of his friends.... The public went crazy. Of course, there were a half dozen rape cases on the docket that barely garnered attentio...
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 13, 2011 12:08 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN 2002 Clerc Milon
Replies: 12
Views: 1370

Re: TN 2002 Clerc Milon

"Not that many 02s weren't approachable, as the BD having drunk perhaps 200 bottles of 02 already will attest."

200 Bottles? In what time period?
by alchemeus
Sun Feb 13, 2011 12:02 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TNR: 1986 Pichon Baron
Replies: 7
Views: 736

Re: TNR: 1986 Pichon Baron

Any thoughts, notes, or encouragement about the '86 Pichon Baron? Without the BWE archives, my normal research source is gone. I've got a line on a case quantity at a fair price, but it's all or nothing so I can't just get a lone bottle to give it a test drive. I do recall it being good at Ian's ep...
by alchemeus
Sat Feb 12, 2011 11:45 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN: Chateau Serilhan 2006 St. Estephe
Replies: 10
Views: 2644

Re: TN: Chateau Serilhan 2006 St. Estephe

Jay, Many 2005's were very good and many of those inexpensive. Sold out rather quickly around here. I'd be surprised if any 2005's were still on shelves, but HUZZAH if any can find them. BTW, had a 1996 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande the other night. Fantastic. Great wine. Couldn't a...
by alchemeus
Sat Feb 12, 2011 11:31 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Question re Gironde/Garonne
Replies: 14
Views: 1512

Re: Question re Gironde/Garonne

Lawyer, Politician, web forum administrator, now author?

Will it ever cease?

HUZZAH!

Keep on truckin'...
by alchemeus
Sat Feb 12, 2011 11:10 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Favorite Super Bowl commercial?
Replies: 2
Views: 503

Re: Favorite Super Bowl commercial?

Sorry, don't care about commercials. Great game though, 2nd-4th quarters. GB won it in the 1st. Well, Pitt coulda won it late but that depended on the 1st Q. On paper Pittsburgh won, but then on paper is worth a flying leap. Since I'm a Ravens fan I leaned toward GB. Pitt in MY division and MY Confe...
by alchemeus
Sat Feb 12, 2011 10:37 pm
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN: Chateau Serilhan 2006 St. Estephe
Replies: 10
Views: 2644

Re: TN: Chateau Serilhan 2006 St. Estephe

Two ways to look at any wine.

1) Is it good? Do you want to drink it?

2) Is it true to it's terroir?

That's what distinguishes a Good wine from a Great wine. Good wine tastes good, Great wine tastes good and is true to it's terroir.

Well, that whole food thing but even more complications.
by alchemeus
Fri Jan 21, 2011 1:03 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: Not a single Bordeaux in Wine Spectator Top 100
Replies: 27
Views: 3685

Re: Not a single Bordeaux in Wine Spectator Top 100

Hound, Americans should then watch cricket. It is a statisticians dream. Everything can be quantified, averaged and measured. Guys It is complete bullshit that the Bortdeaux bubble is going to burst. Those who say that need to get out a bit more. China has become the blargest market for Bordeaux an...
by alchemeus
Fri Jan 21, 2011 12:53 am
Forum: Our Forum
Topic: TN: The Billionaire's Wine
Replies: 14
Views: 1967

Re: TN: The Billionaire's Wine

Alchemeus, I with you when it comes to sushi. I just don't what makes people go gaga over it. Years ago before there were sushi places on every street corner I played in a charity golf tournament that had a huge dinner afterwards. Before the main dinner they made a big deal of gathering everone tog...