Are there any wines you really like/love that (almost) no one else gets?

Mike_Grammer · January 30, 2013, 10:28pm

Mine in this category is probably Vin Jaune. I almost should have no reason to love these, but I do. My last one tasted, from last July:

"1986 Chateau Chalone Catherine du Rye Vin Jaune

Opened and slow-oxed for 18 hours. There’s nothing else like this stuff. Fascinating wood varnish, cured hay, truffle oil and walnut/pecan combo. Vibrant is the word to use for the palate, like drinking walnut and brazil nut oil, yet all framed by lemony side and a real saline feel. This is absolutely not for everyone, but it is brilliant for me."

Thoughts? Would be interested to see what you others come up with.

kwa heri,

Mike

Bob_Foster · January 30, 2013, 10:36pm

Late harvest Vignoles from Holly-field in Kansas. Amazing stuff.

AlexHay · January 30, 2013, 10:59pm

I sell Bourdy wines from the Jura. Few get them aside from Tryba…

Chris_Seiber · January 30, 2013, 11:17pm

I like good examples of pinotage, but I know that’s a wine that most other wine people love to hate. My favorite has been the Spice Route Flagship Pinotage.

Roberto_Rogness · January 30, 2013, 11:34pm

I have never understood the haters of Pinotage. We’ve sold scores of delicious ones over the years and I NEVER see this reaction when we pour them at tastings.

Daniel_H · January 31, 2013, 12:18am

I really enjoy Carignan-heavy blends from the South of Frence. Domaine Rimbert “Le Mas au Schiste” is one of my favorites. For most of my friends these wines are mere curiosities or worse, but I love the exotic flavors and aromas.

S_Reynolds · January 31, 2013, 12:23am

What’s it like? Do they make anything else of value? Still trying to find a gem or two in the Missouri-Kansas area. So far it’s been all sink juice.

Roberto_Rogness · January 31, 2013, 12:37am

There used to be a doctor in Kansas who made excellent Elderberry wine in several bottlings ranging from dry to quite sweet. He somehow even got the BATF to let him put health claims on the labels (based on old Roman prescriptions for using it as a medicine). We sold some for a while then the distributor dropped them.

Bob_Hunnicutt · January 31, 2013, 12:41am

Yes! Carignane from CA. (Never had any from France).

craig_v · January 31, 2013, 1:00am

Montevertine IGT from Chianti. Old school, pure, red fruited, ethereal and elegant. Predominately Sangiovese with a small % of a couple traditional blending grapes. Nothing modern about this wine. Priced between $35 and $45 per,this drinks more like $100 plus IMO.

Tran_Bronstein · January 31, 2013, 1:04am

Off-dry and sweet fruit wines. Iced fruit wines done well can give any late harvest or icewine a run for their money.

Mike_Grammer · January 31, 2013, 1:19am

Yes, I might add a top-rate fruit wine as another choice for me, some of 'em can really hit the spot. I like Montevetrine too, Craig.

Ryan_Kilkenney · January 31, 2013, 1:48am

I’ve has carignane from Preston. Who else makes it?

Lonny_Isenberg · January 31, 2013, 2:24am

I like Carlisle’s.

Randy_Smith · January 31, 2013, 2:36am

Amy Butler @ Ranchero Cellars in Paso Robles.

Bill_Moore · January 31, 2013, 2:41am

Craig,

I also love the Montevertine, but given the steady climb in prices, it’s clear we have plenty of company among those who love this wine. Too many folks “get” it’ unfortunately…

Cheers,

Bill

Howard_Cooper · January 31, 2013, 2:47am

Good Bourgogne level Burgundy.

Bob_Hunnicutt · January 31, 2013, 2:50am

Last Carignane I had was from Roshambo. Cline makes one.

Eric_Ifune · January 31, 2013, 2:51am

Old Madeira.

teddemop · January 31, 2013, 3:02am

It’s not wine, but Fernet Branca - my friends all abhor it, with the exception of one restaurant critic friend.
I was immediately fascinated by it, and found myself ordering it quite often at the end of an evening