2000 Chateau Peyraud

[Innkeeper]

2000 Chateau Peyraud, Premier Cotes de Blaye ($8.99 Blue Hill Wine Shop). Alcohol 12%. This East Bank blend is produced primarily from Merlot (90 %) with splashes of Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc, and is fermented in concrete vats. It gives blackberry jam and eucalyptus on the nose and upfront. Some minerality, more fruit and earth with black tea notes cross the palate, and the finish is wonderful. This is not a Bordeaux for the next decade, but it is delicious now and for up to the next three years. If you can find some, get it and invite those over who say they enjoy Merlot! We matched it with broiled fillet steaks seasoned with OO and Morton Rub, and a nice salad.

[Innkeeper]

Had previously picked up and consumed another one from The Clown in Belfast. Looking for more I found oneself back at Blue Hill before The Clown. My good friend there informed me that since it was his last '00 in the shop, he had raised the price by $.50! I told him that I would buy three more if he lowered the price by fifty cents. It was a deal!

Popped one of those tonight with Orsen Wells Burgers grilled over charcoal with mesquite chip smoke, and salad. Lordy, lordy, how good can it get!

[Innkeeper]

Still holding on with very, very complex burgers last night. Rumor has it there is still some more out there.

[newsguy]

IK: my local shop had been touting this, but seeing your post made me try some. thanks for the tip. my TN...

($9.99) bright ruby, going toward orange at rim. cherry aromas leaped from the glass, along with earth and notes of spice, barnyard and tar. very good, concentrated flavors of cherry and spices, with just a hint of green pepper. very good entry and midpalate, with a decent finish. a silky mouthfeel, good acidity and minimal tannins. very nice expression of terroir for the price. drink over the next two years. 86 points.

[This message has been edited by newsguy (edited 11-15-2004).]