1999 Ch. Lynch-Bages

[hotwine]

I've been looking for an excuse to sample one of these, even though they're much too young. She suggested a steak tonight, so I grilled two 32 oz sirloins (for leftovers, you know), and she baked some spuds and fixed cauliflower in cheese sauce. Pulled the cork on the wine two hours before dinner, although did not decant. The nose was closed...not much there at all. On entry, boot leather and cigar butt dominate, with a touch of juniper berry. Definite tooth-enamal-remover. Tannins are in control right now, and will take a few to subside. More berry fruit toward the end of dinner another hour later, just in time to say so long to that bottle. She liked it, so I'm cleared hot to pick up a few more.

Got lucky with the choice of bottle - it had a defect, a crease/crack along the length of the cork that had allowed wine to travel the full length and stain the top. The bottle would have been history in a few more weeks/months, so it's just as well that we were able to enjoy it before it died.

[hotwine]

Decanted for three hours last night while three of us sipped Galida Cava and one the Nora de Neve Albarino and I grilled filet mignons over oak. (The "duck" decanter from Poland has become my fav, at $30 or less at World Market.... very easy to handle.)

The L-B was coming around but substantial tannins were still present and alcohol seemed quite pronounced, even though only 13%. Sniffed the empty bottle this AM and remnants seemed more promising. Will be in no hurry to finish my meager stash.

[winoweenie]

Didn't go for any of the 99 Bordeaux. I tend to look for the more atypical vintages as I've always been a confirmed Cali-Phile. 82, 95 and 2000 vintages are the ones I've bought in depth. Guess I look for a bikini-girl with a long cover-up. WW

[wondersofwine]

I purchased a duck decanter from Wine Enthusiast but I think I paid around $50. Haven't used it yet as I don't do much entertaining at home.

[TheEngineer]

Hotsie,

I've been trying a few bottles of 99 bordeauxs and for my young palate, there are starting to come into the drinking window for those that I've sampled. You are right though, no rush.

[andrawes76]

Hotsie, for an off vintage, I'd say it still sounds pretty darn good with a steak. Perhaps an aerator decanter would help bring out that grip so it shows better?