Domaine Chandon de Briailles Premier Cru Ile des Vergelesses 1993

15.0 / 20

Producer: Domaine Chandon de Briailles

Region: Pernand-Vergelesses

Country: France

An older Bourgogne recently picked up at an auction, this had a clear red color with some brownish tinges.

Smoky at first on the nose, it later opens to sweet crushed red berries and cocoa/oak notes. Still later, a hint of dried leaves and leather come into play in a composed bouquet that is maybe a bit unidimensional.

In the mouth, it feels older than in the nose. Soft and delicate, as expected, it still shows a hint of tannins, relying mostly on leather and spicier notes to compose the taste. Finish is average and leaves yet more leather notes in the palate.

Still very drinkable, it nevertheless feels that it has peaked and is on its way down. Still, a nice experience with an older Pinot Noir.

Tasted on 2012-01-11

Blandy's Bual Colheita 1993

16.5 / 20

Producer: Blandy's

Region: Madeira

Country: Portugal

Amber in color, this Bual from Blandy's has a nose mainly with exotic woods and fudge, along with crystalized fruits and dried orange skin.

In the mouth, it shows a sweeter, more delicate profile than what I expected. Although displaying a vibrant acidity, it comes along as somewhat creamy, finishing long with fudge notes.

Tasted on 2011-12-27