A more sedate dinner party last night.
Chablis Premier Cru le Forest 2004, R & V Dauvissat
This had good weight and roundness. It was quite acidic, but the balance was superb. Nice minerality and I think the creamy old oak character was very satisfying.
Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Hengst 2002, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht
Very ripe and powerful on the nose. It had a strong lychee and rose water scent. The high alcohol showed itself a bit on the nose. It tasted enormous, with loads of fruit, minerality and even some acid. I first thought this was just too intense to enjoy with food, but in the end I drank my glass with pleasure. It was quite good.
Bandol Cuvée Spéciale la Migoua 2001, Domaine Tempier
This was another heroic wine clocking in at a claimed 15% alcohol. It had the stuffing to be balanced at this ripeness. Lots of perfumed, fragrant fruit. It was really smooth and silky despite some big tannins. It was clean, too! Excellent Bandol.
Bandol Cuvée Spéciale la Tourtine 2001, Domaine Tempier
This was tougher and less fragrant, but the dense dark fruit it had was good. Tannins were a bit tough on the palate, but it had the balance to show this would be a fine Bandol when fully mature. This was also clean, hooray!
The Migoua struck me as being the best of the two.