1995 Troplong-Mondot 1st of 7

Another Beltramo's tasting. This time it was focused on 2008 Bordeaux, but included this 1995, and two 2005 wines. Overall it was an okay tasting. I thought a couple of the wines had merit, but with Bordeaux's expanding prices over the last couple of years, it requires one to dig deep to support the habit. One that I find more challenging with so much great wine flowing from so many regions of the world. To the Troplong-Mondot.

This wine was nicely ruby in color with a closed in nose initially. It had tobacco and cedar notes. The taste was very gritty, heavy with raisin and prune. It had a heavy flavor profile and a long but sweet finish. Tannins were still not fully resolved into this wine. RP 92, WS 90. Price $175. I would not buy this wine, but would not be disappointed if someone served it at dinner one night.

WR

1995 Far Niente Cabernet

This was outstanding. Blockbuster. Burst of currant and berry on the nose with a lovely deep garnet color. The flavor was great with sweet tannins resolved beautifully into the strong fruit flavor. This wine will be great now and for at least a couple of more years, but I do not believe it will ever be better. It is rich with a hint of chocolate and great blackberry flavor. Can you tell I liked it?

Far Niente has a long history of excellent wines. It built its reputation on an excellent string of Chardonnays and extended it with the rest of its lineup. It also has a beautiful winery in the heart of Napa Valley, which is a great stopping point.



Back in awhile.

leh