2003 Pinossimo Pinot Noir

There was a lot of suspicious guidance on the orange and cream label: "A festive wine to be drunk throughout the whole meal", "Enjoy this wine within 3 years" (now that's a long meal). Also some words about being "classy" or being "adventurous". A little confusing. But when all was said and sipped, Bouchard Aine & Fils generally hit the target against a wonderful roast, twice baked potatoes, and monster salad. Nice supple flavor which ameliorated the persistent sting from afternoon dialogue with the Doctor regarding a much earlier mid-summer camping trip: "What did you do all day?" "Sat around in shock, dreading the night". Took a while to say the name of the brand correctly even before drinking the wine.

2002 Barton & Guestier Saint-Emilion

The Doctor and J arrive for Mem Day Wkd. With the succinctness one expects from NC foothill people: D: "It was good". J: "It was very good". Well, that's good.

Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio

Make a note: a bit thin and watery. Big expectations v. Croaker's calamari but skittered over the tongue without much impact. Still enjoyed the job celebration dinner. Watch out for the seafood salad - HUGE portions.

2003? Kenwood "Russian River" Pinot Noir

The surprise B-Earthday "partay" for La's 19th. The gals from Eagle 3 rolled in a bit early and set a trap which sprung a mild evening with the folks into a wild fondue slingin' event with the hallies. Gracias Melting Pot. The Kenwood was a dream, consumed by the mature legal two in half-bottles. Lin: "I really like it." That's all I need to hear.

1998 Chateau Roquevieille Bordeaux

Gift wine of the finest kind! Searching the "cellars" in preparation for a B-Earth-day eve grilled steak extravaganza with La and Lin on the deck de maison, I came upon this (relatively ancient for Mike's collection) intriguing bordeaux. My only guess is that this was a hostess gift from some wayfaring visitor who must have received a good dose of Peter Vella in return. Not what you'd call a fair trade. The Roquevieille proved to be quite a star on a warm wonderful evening! Smooth as can be, J.P.C. Palatin knew exactly what he was doing over 8 years ago over in St-Phillippe-D'Aiguilhe. Not that I'll be visiting him in the near future, but hat's off mesdames and messieurs.