....was a landmark vintage to be sure, virtually nationwide. Even lesser vineyards and chateaux can be quite remarkable, and for nary the price you would pay for the traditionally high-end Bordeaux or Domaine Romanee Conti (DRC) aka French burgundy or pinot noir (these appellations go for thousands of dollars per bottle - consistently!!)
The '09's are just now hitting the shelves with the more exclusive wines being rare in most mainstream markets, i.e. the Quad Cities. The more expensive the bottle the more improvement with age it will probable experience. However, I came across a nice gem tonight at the Grape Life in Davenport - Domaine La Garrigue, a Cotes Du Rhone. The vintage is rated 93-96 by Wine Spectator and similarly from other credible sources I trust....and this bottle is under $20! There's a new recognition of wines rated over 90 and under $20 flourishing throughout wine cyberspace and even in retail settings....this wine is a fine example of why. It's subtle on the nose, full of red fruit aromas with earthy dark chocolate and a hint of vanilla while slightly herbaceous...and best of all an easy all-around drinker, be it with food or on it's own.
I tend to favor the wines of France, especially from all-star vintages such as 2009. 2000 and 2005 were stellar if not generational standouts as well; if you look hard enough, especially online or in large markets, you can still find them though you will pay a pretty penny. I posit however that they are worth it. 2010 is another fabulous year from France still aging in oak barrels in the cellars of myriad vineyards....we shall wait and see.
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