Some general drinking in France

Cabernet Sauvignon 1999, Moss Wood

A dirty blackcurrant nose. This is odd, if it wasn’t for the super-ripeness I’d think this was a really earthy Claret. But, let us be honest, it is more fun than that. I think the oak treatment is pretty classy. And, yeah, it is boozy. The palate is quite silky with super ripe tannins. It is quite long. This is actually good Cabernet, it is ripe and soft. If I am honest, I am not sure ageing this has done much for it. Sure, it is nice, but it was nice when I purchased it.

Chateauneuf du Papes 1998, Chateau de Beaucastel

Meaty, herbal and gamey one the nose. Powerful and scented. Really properly powerful, and yet it charms. It is really lovely, I am both impressed and pleased.

Volnay Premier Cru Santenots-du-Millieu 1999, Lafon

Rich, heady fruit on the nose. Wow, this is incredibly powerful Volnay. There is a lot of peppery, spiciness there. This is lovely, in a butch sort of style, I feel I could hide behind this in a bar-room fight and get away un-scathed. But, it is a top wine without a doubt.