Sommelier’s Diary #22 20. July 2024

1999 Chateau Ausone

The 1999 Chateau Ausone is a beautifully mature Saint-Émilion Grand Cru. It presents a deep garnet color with subtle brick-red edges, indicative of its age. The nose is complex and aromatic, offering layers of blackcurrant, plum, and blackberry, interwoven with notes of cedar, truffle, and graphite. On the palate, it is full-bodied and elegant, showcasing refined tannins and a harmonious balance of acidity. Flavors of dark fruit are complemented by hints of tobacco, leather, and earthy minerality. The finish is long and lingering, with a touch of spice and well-integrated oak, reflecting the wine’s excellent aging potential and the esteemed terroir of Chateau Ausone. 96 corked Points

2008 Montrachet Grand Cru Domaine Henri Boillot

The 2008 Montrachet Grand Cru from Domaine Henri Boillot is a stunning expression of Chardonnay. It exhibits a brilliant golden color with green highlights. The nose is intensely aromatic, offering an exquisite bouquet of citrus fruits, such as lemon and lime, intermingled with white flowers, honey, and a touch of hazelnut. On the palate, it is exceptionally well-balanced, featuring a harmonious blend of vibrant acidity and rich, creamy texture. Flavors of ripe pear, apple, and a hint of minerality are prominent, leading to a long, elegant finish with notes of toasted almonds and subtle oak. This wine exemplifies the grandeur and complexity of a top-tier Montrachet, showcasing both power and finesse. 95 corked Points

2001 Domaine de Chevalier

The 2001 Domaine de Chevalier Rouge showcases a deep garnet hue with a complex and evolving bouquet. The nose reveals enticing aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and red cherries, interwoven with notes of cedar, tobacco, and earthy undertones. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with a silky texture and well-integrated tannins. Flavors of dark fruit are complemented by hints of graphite, spices, and a touch of leather, reflecting its maturity. The wine has a balanced acidity and a long, elegant finish, marked by lingering notes of mineral and subtle oak, demonstrating the finesse and aging potential characteristic of this esteemed Pessac-Léognan estate. 93 corked Points

2005 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Marie Beurrie Domaine Henri Bonneau

The 2005 Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Marie Beurrie from Domaine Henri Bonneau is a captivating wine that exudes depth and complexity. It pours a deep, opaque ruby color. The nose is richly aromatic, offering an intricate bouquet of blackberries, ripe plums, and cherries, accented by notes of garrigue, leather, and a hint of smoked meat. On the palate, it is full-bodied and luxurious, with a silky texture and well-integrated tannins. Flavors of dark fruit are complemented by layers of spice, herbs, and a touch of earthy minerality. The finish is exceptionally long and layered, with lingering hints of black pepper, licorice, and savory herbs, showcasing the wine’s remarkable balance and aging potential. This is a powerful yet elegant expression of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, reflective of Henri Bonneau’s masterful winemaking. 94 corked Points

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