Thursday, November 20, 2008

Domaine de l'Oratoire Saint-Martin Cairanne Reserve des Seigneurs, 1998

This wine, tonight, at this defining moment in time (as our new President-elect might say) is a major reason I continue to get excited about wine. It has reached that stage of maturity that wine lovers are always waiting for but all too rarely see.

The color is a deep crimson with the slight browning that is to expected. The nose is not unlike that of a mature Chateauneuf du Pape--fresh strawberries, dried cherries and the wonderful spice-box bouquet of Mourvedre that has turned the corner. It's deep and serious with all the complex smells and flavors blending together. Rich mid-palate and long finish with power and concentration. The wine may or may not remain in this stage for long (I would guess another six months to a year), but right now it's dancing. And so am I.

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