Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Moulin-a-Vent Extraordinaire!

The Gamay grape has entranced the palate of this Rampant Oenophile, and the wines of Louis Jadot continue to astound. Last week, I added two new Moulin-a-Vent bottles to my cellar intending to enjoy them around the holiday season with friends. Well, I now consider any day with the Gamay grape a holiday, and friends seem to agree, because everyone thoroughly enjoyed the 2005 Jouis Jadot Chateau des Jacques Clos de Rochegres Moulin-a-Vent last evening.

This superb wine rates 90+ points wherever it is rated, and deserves every accolade. We served it perfectly, just 15 minutes from the cellar, opened the bottle and let it breathe for a few minutes. Immediately, we noticed a beautiful floral bouquet around the wine table, teasing us with hints at what we would soon enjoy.

Pouring the Clos de Rochegres reveals a deep, rich red-purple with beautiful long legs on the glass. Aerate slightly with a quick swirl and take a long luxurious breath. You will notice floral tones of rose and peony.

Tip the glass and take a full sip. You should a full body and great red fruit flavors. This Louis Jadot Moulin-a-Vent reveals its generous layering subtly, first with fruit, then lingering tannins, leading to a light mocha and vanilla finish. Very silky texture that envelopes the tongue and enhances the flavor profiles.

The Louis Jadot tasting notes indicate that this wine should age very well, and I have already placed an order at my local wine shop for a split case. Six of this fine wine, and six more of it's cousin, the 2006 Louis Jadot Chateau des Lumieres Cote du Py, slated for a new story next week.

Not only a fine wine, but this wonderful bottle would make a truly memorable gift for any wine lover, especially this Rampant Oenophile. I will be sharing this wonderful wine for several years with good friends and excellent foods. Try it yourself. At $33-38 a bottle locally, for such a singularly enjoyable and adaptable wine, it's one of the best values in my cellar.

0 comments: