2000 Escudo Rojo

[Innkeeper]

Popped my first '99 tonight. It was the best Chilian wine I've ever had. Proof? Had to handwrestle Mother for my share, and that has never had to do that with a Chilian before. No veggies on the nose or upfront; just gobs of fruit and lovely aromas (credit the franc). Across the palate was my first taste of Chilian dirt, fantastic complexity, and chewy tannin. All followed by a four alarm finish.

Matched it with Omaha sirlion (Texas style) steaks, simply broiled with Morgan Rub. EXCEPT we covered them with sauteed, homegrown shiitake mushrooms; in butter, OO, seasonings, fine herbs, and Worchestershire. Also enjoyed some of Sam's rolls, and salad with Blue Stilton dressing. Best dinner of the year.

Happily there is still more '99 Escudo Rojo in the cellar.