Last night Betsy made the Zuni Cafe roast chicken with bread salad (my
all-time favorite roast chicken recipe). I went to cellar for Pinot
Noir, but wandered back up with a bottle of 2005 Filliatreau "La Grande
Vignolle" Saumur-Champigny. I had liked but not loved previous versions
of this, but a rave by Gilman had convinced me to buy a few. I'm very
glad I did. A little tannic initially for the bird, but beautiful
raspberry and black cherry fruit, a clear mineral core, and good
finish. I served a little too cool (I tossed in fridge for a few
minutes), but as it warmed the fruit burst forth and the tannins
retreated a bit. Great acidic balance. I nursed a glass for an hour or
more, some tobacco and light mocha notes emerges. This could use some
time for the tannins to integrate, btu pretty now with air. I
immediately ordered a few more ($14 at Wine Library). A-/B+


Grade disclaimer: I'm a very easy grader, basically A is an excellent
wine, B a good wine, C mediocre. Anything below C means I wouldn't
drink at a party where it was only choice. Furthermore, I offer no
promises of objectivity, accuracy, and certainly not of consistency.