BRW, Corkdork and the Weener met for lunch

[winoweenie]

today and opened a passel of pretty good juice. First outta the chute was a 1997 Anderson Conn Valley Eloge. Gorgeous nose of rose petals, candied cherries, cinnamon, and cassis. All hit the palate like a minute-man missle and the added interest of bakers cocoa. Next was a 1997 Antinori Solia. 80% cab and 20% sangoivese this elegant package has a restrained nose on opening. Brite ruby. After 45 minutes the nose appears with cassis, baked apple, subtle oak, and a tad of ripe rasins. Extremely balanced and has loads of ripe tannins that should take another 7-10 and will hold another 10-15 easily. 13.5% alc. The last botlling was a 1994 Clos Pegase Hommage, Artist Series.With just a dose of 4% Merlot this is a lovely balanced bottle of juice. Deep ruby with a light orange rim. Nose is classic cab. Cassis, cherries both red and black, and spice.13.5% alc. All of these wines hit the outstanding button but I didn't keep close enough tabs. Was tough to pick a frontrunner but I gave a slight nudge to the Solaia over the Conn Valley. When we were about thru CorkDork hit the counter with a bottle of 1990 Cain Five. Still alive but with the oak dominate it was evident this wine was going downhill. Still lovely to drink but had a hard time in the present company. All of the wines have to be in the outsanding quality with a couple reaching the coveted exceptional status. WW