2001 Tobin James Made in the Shade

[Innkeeper]

The reason we are starting a new thread on this one, is that it is remarkably different from previous offerings, even though they have improved slightly over the years. The '01 is still priced at the stabilized cost of $16. The alcohol level is 13.7%, and although this is not exceptionally high, this may be part of the story. There obviously was either more hang time or quicker rippening here.

It looked richer in the glass. As dark a garnet as ever seen in a Merlot. It offered currents and mocha on the nose and upfront. Very lush fruit including overripe plums add to the earthy complexity crossing the palate. The finish rang three bells. Did they accidentally get something else into the bottle? Due to cirmumstances we have another of these in the cellar.

We will not waste the other one on burgers and onions as we did tonight.