1981 Paul Jaboulet Aine, Hermitage, "La Chapelle"

[Innkeeper]

What's it like to drink a twenty year old wine? Those of you who do this routinely know quite well. For us it's a rare treat. Last night we uncorked this one with a filet mignon dinner, and were enchanted. It was the best old wine we've had since we popped a '78 Brunello about five years ago. It was the last wine we hauled here from Nebraska in '88. Purchased it from the Liquor Mart in Shreveport, LA in '86 for $17.25. Despite its name, an excellent store. The bottle opened with much difficulty; and there was a mat of sediment on the side it. Carefully decanted, the wine was wonderful. It still had a dark garnet color. On the nose, an evocative aroma. Still a trace of plumy fruit up front. On the palate, unbelievable complexity with gentle overtones of tarry earthiness. And the finish still goes on. Please newguys, find something great, and lay it down for a long, long time. Incidentally, current vintages of "La Chapelle" will cost you hundreds, but others are waiting to be discovered.

[This message has been edited by Innkeeper (edited 03-13-2001).]

[Bucko]

Best $17.25 you ever spent! Nice price before the wine got Parkerized.....

Bucko