Gevrey - Lavaux St. Jacques 1988 L. Jadot
1/95. Acquired from Beaune June-94 for $32 (imported for $40 net).
Again a Gevrey 1er Cru from Jadot's own Domaine.
Two 'firsts': The vineyard and the vintage. I never tasted this particular 1er
Cru (not to be confused with its illustrious neighbor Clos St.-Jacques), and
never tried any 1988 red, as I was led to believe it is an excellent but
tannic vintage that needs more time. Decided to try a '88 1er Cru, as my '85
trove is dwindling. Furthermore, as we were having a roasted leg of baby lamb
for dinner, I thought a tannic young wine will not be unpleasant. The bottle
was opened 30 min before dinner.
COLOR: Normal ruby-red Burgundy, neither dark nor light.
NOSE: Typical (B) aroma engulfed by fresh fruit. At first a bit coarse
"barnyard" bouquet, transforming in time into deeper, smooth and totally
pleasing nose.
TASTE: Hard tannins only felt for the first 5-10 minutes. Then fruity velvety
taste with good acidity to counter tannin. Very enjoyable flavors, though a
bit monotonous. Not a great (B), and less impressive then 'Les Cazetiers'.
Still, very tasty. Went deliciously with the three mushrooms ragu, the lamb
and the baked potatoes with sour-cream & dill.
LENGTH: Reasonably long and pleasant after-taste though not particularly
developing in the mouth.
TEXTURE & BALANCE: Excellent balance between alcohol, acidity and tannins. Not
really 'meaty' or 'fat' wine, though not lacking in the body department. The
tannin is there, but very soft and round. Very drinkable but still feels young
rather than mature.
OVERALL: A very good and ready(!) 1er Cru. So drinkable, that we had to
restraint ourselves to get to the cheese and dessert with something left. Will
hold at least a few more years.
MARK: 16/20.aaaaaaaaBUY MORE? Maybe.
Reach Me? yak@yakshaya.com
Copyright 1996-2003.
Jacob "Yak" Shaya.