On Dec 15, 4:05�pm, "Bi!!" > wrote:
> Boy's night out last night at a local steakhouse where we often meet
> since they allow us no corkage.
> Started with Jean Lallemant NV Brut-This is a wine that I distribute
> offered from Terry Theise. �Really crisp and apple like with toasty
> buttery brioche on the finish . �So good that one could just gulp it
> and it won't brak the bank at $35.00
>
> Next a flight of red bruisers to go with bone in filets.
> 1991 Ridge Montebello-Still dark reddish purple with no sign of age.
> Fresh red berry nose with typical california dusty aromas. �Plenty of
> red plum and black cherry on the palate. �Nice firm tannic structure
> on a long smooth finish. �Years to go before peaking. �A-
>
> 1982 Gruaud Larose-strikingly dark purple with a clearing at the rim.
> HUge nose of mint, leather, cedar and cassis. �Layers of complex
> flavors with black fruits then red fruits then old bordeaux cedar and
> tobacco. �Really smooth tannins on a super long finish. �A+
>
> 1997 Thackrey Orion-I've had this wine many times and it's probably at
> or slightly past it's peak. �Strong peach and white pepper notes on
> the nose. �Meaty on the palate with briary red berries and red currant
> notes. �Finish of vanilla and spice. B++
>
> 2002 Arietta Variation One-THis is a Merlot Syrah blend made by John
> Kongsgaard in his typical big but focused style. �Beautiful fruit
> notes on a lush almost creamy nose brimming with vanilla. �Plenty of
> cassis and milk chocolate on the palate with gravelly mineral on the
> finish. �Very smooth plush tannins. B++

'82 Gruaud can be a great, great wine. Thanks!