This was one of two excellent Southern Rhones that we enjoyed with our 2011 Christmas dinner featuring roast lamb and vegetables. Two different views of mature Southern Rhone.
Lucien Barrot is one of the most traditional Chateauneuf estates and one that is often overlooked. Previous bottles of the 1989 and 1988 (opened from 2003 to 2006) have been outstanding. At this stage of its development, the 1989 does not attract attention to itself in the same way, but I don't think it's necessarily past its prime. The color is medium light, about what you'd expect from a 22-year-old Chateauneuf du Pape. The nose is slow to open but has lots to offer when it does--fresh and dried berries on a bed of spices and dried flowers. Lovely ripe Grenache flavors with no hard edges. This wine is showing a calm, reserved personality at the moment, but it's a fine accompaniment to roast lamb.
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