Crespin Chinon

[Innkeeper]

2001 Jean-Pierre Crespin, Arlequin (Le vin des humanistes), Chinon ($13.99 Chambers Street Wines). Black currents and red raspberries on the nose and upfront. Very full body (despite the claimed 12.5% alcohol), nice complexity accented by that wonderful Loire dirt, and smooooooth tannin across the palate, and a memorable finish. Highly recommend you try this one if you can find it. Most interesting label of the year to boot. Matched it with sautéed ham slices in cream sauce, and spinach. Posted the recipe before, but can’t find it now; so here it is again.

SAUTEED HAM SLICES IN CREAM SAUCE:

1 Large 1/2" thick slice of cooked leftover or freshly bought ham trimmed of all rind, fat, gristle, etc, and cut in two or more pieces
1 tbl Butter
1 splash Olive oil
1 Shallot, scallion, or small white onion minced
1 tbl Cognac (or brandy)
3 tbl Red wine you are going to drink
2/3 C + 2 tsp Heavy cream
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Tomato paste (easiest from tube)
Few grindings from peppermill

In a medium skillet saute the ham pieces in butter and oil till brown. Reserve on plate or platter in warm oven. Add onion to pan and cook two minutes. Add brandy and wine and cook down to a syrup. Mix 2 tsp of cream with mustard and tomato paste with a saucier or whisk, and add to 2/3 C cream. Add cream mixture to skillet with pepper and simmer slowly for ten minutes. Sauce should be slightly thick. Return ham pieces to pan, and nap with the sauce. Serve either over or with a bed of spinach, or on a plate with green beans.

[Innkeeper]

Popped another last night with leftover meatloaf (isn't it best that way?). While enjoying the wine it occurred to me that it certainly was not subtle as had been ascribed to Loire Carbernet Francs around here recently. Then I looked at my TN above, and, son of gun, got the same impression both times. Maybe it is out of the ordinary, but this Chinon is brawny. Glad there's more!