Formally Introducing: Christian Moueix Merlot, 1998 Bordeaux
Written: Jan 01 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Affordable Bordeaux with ruby-rich color and fragrant bouquet.
Cons: There is one smell I simply was not able to place... which led to mild frustration. (Other than that, no cons.)
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| wildvirgogirl's Full Review: Fortant De France Merlot Vin De Pays D'oc 1998 |
Please Note: This is a review of CHRISTIAN MOUEIX MERLOT, 1998 BORDEAUX not the Fortant de France Merlot, Vin de Pays d'Oc of 1998. When an appropriate link is added to the Merlot > France category I shall happily move my review. In the meantime, if you need information about the latter, please visit the manufacturer's website at http://www.fortant.com/wines/wine/presen01.htm. Thank you.
Where in the world has wildvirgogirl gone?
When exploring the Aquitane region, known as the Cradle of the Arts, in southwest France, travelers are bound to discover the city of Libourne and the Moueix family's famous vineyards. Located between the banks of the Isle and Dordogne rivers, approximately 25 kilometers (less than 20 miles) northeast of the infamous capital city of Bordeaux, Monsieur Jean-Pierre Moueix began producing his wines here in 1937 due to the soil quality of the region. Internationally known for his mastery of the Merlot variety, he passed on his techniques and traditions to his son, Christian, who now produces some of the finest wines, which are imported exclusively to the United States by Kobrand Corporation. If it weren't for this practice, I doubt I would have had the pleasure of tasting this wonderful grape creation.
How did I wind up here?
Over the past year, I read aplenty wine reviews and gratefully learned from resident Gourmet advisors leah, mshawpyle, and sweetpaulie, just to name a few. (I advise a thorough reading of their extensive submissions if you haven't thus far.) During that year, it was suggested I try my hand at this art and it's taken some time to muster the courage to submit this review for consideration. You see, these folks are far more aware than I am of the smells, tastes, visual appearance, etcetera which describe fine wines.
To be honest, I picked this wine from the top shelf because it was produced and bottled in southern France over two years ago and I prefer Merlot. Since it was on sale, and I shop for bargains, I must admit this fact influenced the selection process slightly. :) Therefore, I offer one caveat before proceeding. I make no claim to be a wine connoiseur. Please take heed, Gentle Reader.
Don't take my word on it...
Before opening the bottle, I happily went and read what expert representatives at The Wine Spectator had to say about this wine. This 1998 Bordeaux scored a '90-94' ranking which means 'outstanding.' They also noted it was "one of the sleepers of the vintage." I approached the bottle reverently, but with giddy anticipation, upon learning this tidbit of information...
The Three Rs
Research. Respect. Response. For those of you floating in the same virginal skiff when it comes to wine tasting, I suggest the background information and accompanying self-explanatory photos by Hugh Johnson. http://www.reedbooks.co.uk/docs/mitchell/wine/wine14.htm
If I have learned nothing else, I know wine tasting requires the proper tools and techniques. Additionally, approaching the experience with an inquisitive attitude helps one's response.
I literally followed Johnson's step-by-step guide and discovered quickly why people enjoy this activity. Naturally, I broke out French crystal wine glasses especially for the occasion and, as luck would have it, deftly removed the cork from the dark green-colored bottle after peeling away the maroon foil on its top. I let the bottle 'breathe' for over an hour until it felt like it was at room temperature (65 degrees), then poured it into a 20-ounce wine glass, one-third full.
CHRISTIAN MOUEIX MERLOT, 1998 BORDEAUX
Appelation: Bordeaux D'Origine Controlée (AOC)
Initial Appearance: 'Legs! Look! Legs!,' I cried.
Note: Being unaccustomed to seeing the terminology in action, I was pleasantly surprised to witness 'legs' as I swirled the fluid in the glass. Being sure to hold the glass only by its stem, I noticed the Merlot seemed to hold onto the surface of the glass and then gently cascade in thin 'leggy' looking strands of nearly clear fluid. It brought up an image I'd seen of Niagra Falls for some odd reason, then a painting of Toulouse Lautrec's can-can dancers flashed in my mind. How apt.
This activity captured my attention for nearly two full minutes. (Yes, I'm easily amused.)
Color: Bright; the hue immediately recalled clear, ruby stained glass windows in sunlight.
Smell: Initially, I smelled raspberries, black licorice, bing cherries, and a touch of nutmeg. It was in a word 'lively.' After inhaling deeply several times, hints of vanilla, fresh dates, and, eventually grapes and blooming lavender lilacs appeared.
Tastes: Slightly tart in flavor, my nose did not deceive me. It tasted like fresh raspberries, black licorice, and bing cherries.
Note: It was a bit spicy when I inhaled some air while holding the wine in my mouth, but that's all I could discern. Frankly, I was more concerned about accidentally laughing and spitting the stuff across the room. I felt like an utter fool trying to suck in air and not swallow or choke in the process. Obviously, this is a technique I must practice in future tastings. :)
Texture: Creamy and somewhat thick, but rather than it being like molasses it was more like freshly-churned butter.
Strength: A faint alcohol smell; slightly astringent.
Structure: Based on my research, I'd say this vintage is healthy, firm, and has 'backbone'.
Body: Medium-body, 12.5% alcohol, 750 ml, and serves five, one-third full, 20-ounce wine glasses.
Length: The tastes lingered several minutes after I swallowed. As I understand it, this is known as having 'a long finish' and is a positive quality for a wine.
What's for dinner, dear?
With this Merlot, I served mature French brie, Wisconsin summer sausage, and Ritz® crackers which complimented it nicely. I'm sure it would enhance any Italian pasta entrée, though manicotti seems most fitting. Also, a light quiche or hamburger pie would probably hold its own.
Conclusion
This is an affordable, fruity Merlot that I recommend be served with hors d'oeurves and/or elaborate entrées to family and friends.
Enjoy!
~ wvg ~
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
wildvirgogirl
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Member: Elle Hills
Location: The Adirondack Park
Reviews written: 47
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About Me:
Art historian. Avid reader. Lover of etiquette, life, and music. Loyal to God.
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