Chateau Le Bonnat 2010 Graves Blanc
I can't say
that I am a fan of White Bordeaux because I've have never really had that many.
But when I have had them I have typically enjoyed the experience which begs the
question of why I don't seek more of them out. Who knows, life is just like
that I guess!
I came by this
particular selection, Chateau Le Bonnat 2010 Graves Blanc, in a Bordeaux combo pack from Lot 18 and if I recall the
price per bottle was just shy of $17, which is about the current average price for
the label according to sites that track price trends.
I opened the
bottle for no particular reason or occasion and I don't even remember now what
I had for dinner with it. Clearly getting off track with the blogging has
created some undesirable outcomes!
The wine is a
blend of 66 percent Sémillon and 34 percent Sauvignon Blanc, with 6 months of
oak aging. I found conflicting information on whether just the Sémillon was
aged or the blend. I am guessing just the Sémillon. I was met with white
flowers (or maybe citrus blossoms), herbs and a bit of stone in the nose. There
was also a touch of nuttiness as well. The flavors were predominantly unripe
peach with a dose of tart citrus that picks up in the middle through the
finish. The wine has a creamy texture with a bit of body on the palate, but
does remain crisp with a clean finish and a touch of acid in the exit.
I would
recommend this wine as a worthy example of Graves Blanc and a decent value. If you are looking for a
versatile white and can find it for under $17, go for it!
Smuttynose Gravitation
I had the most
recent release of this beer on tap over dinner with my wife at Cask & Vine
(a place I will share more about soon) in Derry, NH.
Gravitation
is part of the Big Beer series from Smuttynose Brewing located in New
Hampshire. At 12% ABV the word big is apt. Categorically this beer is
designated as a Belgian Quad and this particular beer is made with a range of
specialty malts and raisin syrup to create its unique character.
The beer is
a light brown color and smells/tastes of dried fruits (raisins, prunes),
unrefined/raw sugars and malts. The alcohol
is not entirely balanced and easily perceptible. The beer goes down smoothly
enough making it insanely dangerous. It is sweet, but there is a crispness or sharp edge to it that
keeps it from coming across as cloying.
As I was researching
this beer I reviewed the comments on it at Beer Advocate. Clearly the reviews
are mixed and not having much experience with the style I can't really confirm
or refute any of it on a technical basis. I did enjoy it, and so did Margot, so
when consumed socially rather than with my reviewer hat on, I humbly suggest
that this beer is hugely enjoyable.
Cheers!
Jason
No comments:
Post a Comment