WTN: Soave (Calvarino) and Marsannay (Audoin)

• 2006 Pieropan Soave Classico Calvarino - Italy, Veneto, Soave Classico (9/10/2008)
  12,5% abv; 23,60€. Upon opening this was very strongly mineral. It became rather ripe and red toned in fruit (red apples and strawberries) but also with a good twist of lemon and green jasmine tea. Quite full bodied though gladly unoaked and with lovely grip and moderate acidity. Though moderate in alcohol and light on its feet, there is an interesting, almost oily sensation on the mineral and incredibly long aftertaste. This manages to balance the brightness and richness very well. Very good.
• 2005 Domaine Charles Audoin Marsannay Clos de Jeu - France, Burgundy, Côte de Nuits, Marsannay (9/6/2008)
  22,90€; 13% abv. Quite dark. It has decent Pinosity but is rather ripe and dark toned: strawberry cola. It smells a bit woody (like actual freshly cut wood, not so much the usual vanillary oak notes). Quite full bodied, fair acidity, some lovable vegetal notes to counter the fruit; strong tannins. I don't know if it is just the year or the style the producer goes for, but it was quite a heavy wine for Marsannay. But the aftertaste has a burst of freshness and becomes light on its feet - like a squirt of lemon suddenly put into a heavy dish! I like some aspects of the wine, but am not convinced of it now. Needs a few years.

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