9.06.07
Domaine Du Pegau - Cuvee Laurence 2001 Truly gorgeous nose of ripe black fruits, playing second violin to prunes-in-a-good-way, asphalt, leather, barnyard and spice. Full bodied with a very fine texture and an initial hit of delicious ripe dark fruit which goes on to fill the mouth. Elegant - but with tremendous underlying power. Tannins are evident - but perfectly in proportion with the other components and carry the flavours in a long finish. Even at this point in its development - a great pleasure to drink and would say more approachable than the 1998 ....Is it more approachable than the 01 Reservee? I might have to sacrifice one in the name of research....etc etc.96pts.

01.06.07
Puligny Montrachet Jean Louis Chavy 2005
Pale straw. Enticing, mineral nose with subtle citrus notes. Perfectly balanced - great texture and initial caramel are just the start of this complex, lively and delightful wine - kept changing but always delicious - long finish marred by slightly out of whack acidity - but will no doubt integrate over the next few years. Tremendous value. 93pts

18/0407
Cuvee Dame Honneur Du Chateau Lagrezette 2002 Cahors
On opening - initial, not unpleasant, dusty cellar odours - these blow off to make way for beautiful nose of super -concentrated black fruits and roasted meat. Not as plummy as the last bottle. WOW I mean BIG WOW I love the power of this wine which coats the mouth with layer upon layer of black cherries - then follows a tannin reinforced finish of 40 seconds or so. Not a wine for those with a nervous disposition. - but immense fun - even now - but this will be magnificent in 5 years time. 93pts

Ravenswood Lodi Zinfandel 2005 - Have to say I didn’t really get this wine - I thought it was er… un -dimensional. Sweetish, nondescript fruit and, to my mind, overpowering oak. Not a grand wine. Not rated.