This afternoon’s general drinking

This afternoon’s general drinking was in the company of a lovely professional couple who kindly hosted us; they are really excellent cooks – roast chicken is a truly under-rated dish especially when cooked Jamie Oliver style with lots of butter under the breast. My friends are wonderful people. We drank quite well, too.

Billecart-Salmon Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru NV

This was a really good, elegant, refined Champagne. Quite refreshing and focused. I thought this was one of the best NV Champagnes I’ve had in a while.

Meursault Premier Cru Charmes 2000, Morey-Blanc

This was quite oaky, but it had nice fruit and a degree of mineral complexity. I liked it’s length and thought it was quite well balanced.

Château Lynch Barges 2001

This was really tits out for the lads. Very buxom and up-front. Not much as far as complexity goes, but it was a good drink.

Domaine de Trevallon 1992

This was really quite Clarety. It was up for drinking and a lot of fun, both hedonistically and intellectually.

Nuits St. Georges Premier Cru Clos de la Forest 1999, Domaine l’Arlot

This was surprisingly forward, not at all quaquaversal. It was quite complex, and pleasingly soft and charming. I really enjoyed it.

Grand Puy Lacoste 1994

I was surprised this was a 1994 as it seemed really quite ripe and giving. It still had a pleasing degree of rigour, but it was not too tough.

Charmes-Chambertin 2002, Domaine Arlaud

This was really silky with svelte fruit and real harmony. It had a brilliant, complex finish of fruit and minerality. Really lovely.