1999 Brouilly Chateau de La Chaize

[wondersofwine]

13% alcohol. $9.95 for a half-bottle at Dean and Deluca in Charlotte. Color: dark purple-red. Nose: raspberry and other less distinct aromas; heady bouquet. Palate: raspberry and plumskins. Refreshing, balanced, both fruity and flowery, nice finish. Very attractive as a quaffer; a light-hearted wine that may be drinking at its peak at three years of age. Had it with my version of Sloppy Joes, but it also is pleasant without food. Outperformed expectations as I had read that Cote de Brouilly (from the hillside vines) is usually better than Brouilly (from the flat acreage). However, one wine commentator on the web argues that Brouilly may be one of the best Beaujolais crus. Will have to try more to see if they measure up to this one.

(Just saw that Mr. Dutton commented on 1998 version of this and found it rather ordinary. I don't know if the 1999 vintage was any better or just a difference of opinion on the wines, but he did say he would drink it again.)

[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 01-03-2003).]