1999 Coudoulet de Beaucastel
I've read some reports that this wine was in a death spiral. I'm pleased to report that this bottle had plenty of life and was at or near peak...I only wish I had more of it so I could check back in on it in a couple of years.
The meal was grilled loin lamb chops with a marinate of fresh basil, dijon mustard, EVVO and garlic. There was also a side of tomato pie which was a new experience for me and I loved it..
Now about the wine. The fruit had a somewhat forward raspberry and strawberry fruit profile, but not in any sort of sweet or cloying way. A touch of leather and meat. The tannins are still hanging in there to balance out the acidity and fruit. Lengthy peppery finish. A very, very nice CdR with loads of character. I seem to recall paying ~$18 for this 4 or 5 years ago.
Curly