Wine and Poker?

While the Rampant Oenophile "busted out" at the poker table early, I did enjoy a winning pot in the 2004 Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot.

Substantial body and mouth feel that fills the palate. This is the most complex young wine that I've enjoyed in a long time. It's not subtle, so it should pair very well with an aged seasoned NY Strip or Filet. We paired it with pizza, soy chips, full houses, pairs, and the occasional flush, but it stands up well to big flavors.

The bouquet layers fruits and spice, so you will taste berry, clove and black pepper on the tongue. Take a big sniff in the bowl, and you should note hits of oak and dried fruit. I didn't taste the herb or vanilla tones that we expected, but those flavors should come out more fully with a proper food pairing.

All in all, the 2004 Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot beats a straight flush, hands down. It's a winner that you should enjoy again and again.

Gastronomic Delight

The Rampant Oenophile enjoyed a true gastronomic delight last evening with two inch thick ribeyes medium rare, blue cheese stuffed olives, soft camembert on organic wheat toast, fresh hummus, mixed green salad, asian slaw, and an exquisite bottle of 2003 Opus One.

Without question, the Opus One is the finest wine enjoyed by this Rampant Oenophile, and the food and friends only escalated a sublime and fantastic wine. At the perfect temperature and left to breathe for 15 minutes, the Opus One filled the kitchen with wonderful aromas. Very subtle fruits and tannins. Modest acidity tickles the tongue. The black currant and slight mineral flavors never overpower, but absolutely enhance the taste of foods. The Opus One was the first wine that taught me how wine can adapt to flavors of foods paired to it. Truly amazing.

At $160-$180, not a wine that you'll enjoy daily, but certainly an exciting find for special occasions. I enjoyed mine with a dear friend and a wonderful meal that set the tone for a terrific evening. Get one and enjoy!