Cru Tasting (Nelson's Wines)

First Flight

2017 Scalabrone Tenuta Guado Al Tasso Rosato

2015 Aubert Chardonnay UV-SL Vineyard

2016 Tor Torchiana Chardonnay

2015 Kistler Hyde Vineyard Carneros


Second Flight

1985 BV Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

1986 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

1990 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

1992 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Special Select

1995 Calon Segur

1995 Pichon-Lalande Longueville Comtesse de Lalande

2003 Sociando Mallet


Third Flight

1989 B. Chave Hermitage

1989 Chapoutier Ermitage "La Pavillion"

1991 Chapoutier Cote Rotie "La Mordoree"

1996 Jaboulet Hermitage "La Chapelle"

1995 Beaucastel CdP

2005 Elio Altare Barolo Vigna Arborina

Decanted for an hour or so. Surprisingly approachable with very supple texture. Captivating cherry palate and dusty ripe tannins, seamlessly interwoven with a finish of goudron and balsamic spices. Nose seems a bit modest, but this richly elegant wine is impossible to put down. Altare is a master of deft use of barrique. 

Two Interpretations of Oregon Pinot Noir

Use of whole cluster is significant differentiator between these two wines. 

The 2015 Antica Terra Ceras is 11% whole cluster. It is incredibly delicious from the start. Lots of minerality (even salinity?) framing the impeccable quality fruit, which comes across as an intriguing red and blue melange. Supple tannins caress the palate. This should age nicely. 

The 2014 Kelley Fox Maresh Red Barn Blocks stands out with 100% whole cluster providing graceful structure and spiciness for high-toned red fruit. Very attractive,  lithe aromatics reflect an overall lightness of being inherent in this winemaker's style. This should age effortlessly over the next 5+ years.

On its own, the Antica Terra Ceras invites sip after sip...very satisfying and hard to put down the glass. 

The Kelley Fox Maresh pairs better with the grilled bone-in pork chops. Its structure and acidity makes it very food friendly.