2004 Marcel Deiss Pinot Blanc Bergheim 13.0%
My first wine from this renowned producer. Elegant nose of white flowers, citrus, and a touch of honey. Also some oak, though not sure if this saw any. Immediate surprise at the kabinett level of sweetness, which I wasn’t expecting from an Alsatian. The acid/sweet balance is perfect and this is very pleasant, but I confess I expected more “something” from this producer; there was no micro-epiphany to be had.
2006 Vietti Barbera d’Asti Tre Vigne 14.0%
Lots of oak and dark cherry on the nose. Mouth puckering acidity, as expected, but more acid than sweet, as unexpected. Alcohol feels too high. Seems caught in the middle: neither a “serious” Barbera, like the Braidas, nor a fresh, simpler, delicious Barbera, like this is touted to be. And so many are.
2001 Château Nairac Barsac 13.0%
One of my dependable standbys in the dessert department. Lovely botrytis, apricot, honey aromas, this time with a touch of pine resin. Lovely. Underrated and inexpensive.