TN: 2 inexpensive Bordeaux
 

We went to dinner at the new home of a violist friend of Betsy's,
joined by Sue's luthier (not sure I've ever used that word in a TN
before). Assorted cheeses, tilapia, spaghetti with red sauce, and two
Bordeaux:

1998 Ch. Clos Magne Figeac (St Emilion)
A little barnyard, touch of earth, but mostly rather flat/tired black
plum fruit. Not particularly acidic, but what acids there are seem
unintegrated. A little green pepper, surprising for a '98 Right
Banker. Actually revives a bit with air, shows some tobacco and
livelier fruit, but mostly uninteresting. C+/B-

2001 Ch. Greysac (Medoc)
Well, here's a surprise. I didn't expect much here, but this is a
fairly solid bottle of Bdx. Midweight, black plums and currants, a
distinct note of pencil shavings and a touch of smoke. Light
integrated tannins, enough acids to keep the fruit lively, decent
length. I'd happily have this on my dinner table. B

Good night, though some of the classical music gossip went over my
head (as did extended discussions on sound post adjustments and the
market for antique bows and Amatis, etc).

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.
*