Tasting with Serena Sutcliffe

27-Feb-95

Tonight I had the privilege to taste some wines with Serena Sutcliffe. This was her last day in Israel. After flying in the morning to the Golan Heights to visit (and taste) the wines of the Golan Wineries, she came back to Tel-Aviv, to give a fascinating wine talk and to let us taste some wines she brought with her from England. The evening was beautifully organized by the best wine-store in Israel, Derech Ha'Yayin (The Wine Road).

We tasted the following wines, with Serena explaining the history and wine-growing philosophy of each. She then encouraged every one to try to express what he finds or doesn't find in each wind (we were about 20 people). Again, a very exciting experience with one of the world top authorities on wines.

Clos des Jacobins			1985	St. Emilion

This Grand Cru St. Emilion has no Cabernet Sauvignon whatsoever in it. It is made of only Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Not an impressive color, very strong spicy bouquet, smooth plummy taste, though tannins are certainly felt. Good.
MARK: 15/20.

Haut Bages Averous			1985	Pauillac

The second wine of Ch. Lynch-Bages. Better looking than the St. Emilion, fantastic clean floral bouquet, delicate taste with accentuated black fruits. Soft tannins felt but not distracting. Excellent.
MARK: 17/20.

Ch. Talbot					1985	St. Julian

The most smelly wine I ever tasted! And some folks complaining about (B) smell??? (B) smell is GOOD! This one was really stinking. I looked at Serena, and being the shy and introvert type I am < g >, asked her if that is how this wine is supposed to smell. She sniffed it again, and her face was lit with pleasure. It takes all kinds I guess (meaning just that, and no disrespect). She called the aroma "cedar". Well Lebanon is a bit out of reach for me, so I guess I'll have to take her word for it. Anyway, the taste was a pleasant surprise following that nose. It was delicate, even sweet. Quite good.
MARK: 14/20.

Pavillon Rouge				1985	Margaux

The second wine of the famous Ch. Margaux. Very good color, extremely fine and delicate bouquet, ripe fruit on the palate, though quite tannic still. Very good.
MARK: 16/20.