2006 Chateau Palmer
Regular price £427.05 Save £-427.05ABOUT THE WINE
Chateau Palmer is named after a British officer, Colonel Charles Palmer (later Maj. General), who settled in Bordeaux in 1814. It is located in the center of the Margaux appellation, and its vineyards lie on a plateau of clay and gravel soils. Historically the estate has always prided itself on the exceptional quality of its wines, declassifying whole vintages (as in 1963 and 1968) when conditions weren't conducive to the usual high standards of the property. Classified as a 3ieme Cru Classe', it punches significantly above its classification. Since the 2017 vintage they are certified 100% biodynamic.
TASTING NOTES
Maraschino cherries, cassis and tobacco characterise the bright, youthful aromatics; medium-bodied on the palate, with a succulent core of cassis and blackberry fruit. The tannic structure is super-fine, beautifully integrated into the oak character on the finish. This is a remarkably elegant wine, which has developed superbly, and will continue to do so until 2040.
FOOD PAIRING
An excellent wine for venison.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Merlot at Palmer is planted on both the clay and gravel soils of the estate; the extra drainage provided by the gravel gives Palmer its elegant opulence, hence the unusually high proportion of Merlot (often 45-50%) in the blend for a left-bank wine.
2012 Opus One, Opus One
Regular price £538.50 Save £-538.50A joint venture between the Robert Mondavi company (the family are no longer involved) and the late Baron Philippe de Rothschild, based in the Oakville appellation within Napa Valley. One of the finest wines in California, and revered throughout the world. Initially a selection of the finest lots from the Mondavi Winery, since 1991 certain vineyard parcels came to be associated with Opus One, most notably the To-Kalon vineyard, which since 2005 has provided the core of the wine.
TASTING NOTES
Blackberry, rose petals and mocha aromas, with earth, cassis and leather providing nuance. Supremely silky on the palate, with rounded tannin and a bright mineral character; violet and lavender, a hint of mint and plenty of blackcurrant, black cherry and plum fruit. Supple and lingering, with truffle and charcoal on the finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Best enjoyed with substantial, yet subtle, foods which will allow the wine to shine - a fine steak with delicate seasoning, perhaps.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
The 2012 is considered one of their greatest vintages; just entering its drinking window, this wine will continue to improve until 2030.