I know 1994 Bordeaux does not get a lot of love, but there are some gems in this vintage. Leoville Barton is one standout. This Le Fleur de Gay is another. A Chinon’s lover’s Pomerol. Surprising that this is 100% merlot, but definitely the vintage is shining through.
A classic, old school perfume of lean dark fruits, leather, barn plank and, hmm, bell pepper. Love me some green notes and herbal veins in my wines. This one has it in spades. Not a rich vintage here, but a lovely petrichor expression across the nose and palate. Quite aromatic, rising from a summer sun-shower on dry earth and ground cover. Some mint/menthol to the top note. Lean and crisp on the palate. Clipped finish is the only detractor here. Not a block-buster, but a perfect lunch accompaniment to my tray of meats, cheeses and select vegetables.
Wow super cool Kris that you have some ‘86 Les Carmes! I love the old school style and that label. Things have changed there. Not worse, just different.
I like the newer wines with more Franc. 12-15 were all great, 16 sounds like it may not be to my liking, but 17-19 will be. Hoping 19 comes out at hot prices.
Interesting you did not like the 2016, why? I found the 2012 too glossy, but the 2014 was a worthy double-down purchase. When the 2014s hit the shelves, TW still had the 2010 for $70, or at $55 with the 20% off coupon they always have. I stocked up on the 2010 over anything.
L’evangile was another standout from 1994. My note from a few months back:
Cork broke in half, so decanted - fairly light, fine sediment. A bit of bricking around the rim. Perfume fills the room when the bottle is opened - bright cherries mixed with pipe tobacco and old library. On the palate, this seems like a textbook 25 year old cab franc based right bank (actually, 35% CF, 65% merlot). Lighter bodied, tobacco, wet dirt, medicinal herbs, more pipe tobacco and old leather bound books. It’s not without class, but a bit austere and fruit is not forthcoming at all - but there is a bit of black cherry/blueberry lurking in the background. Unfurls over 4 hours - the last sip is the best. Will make sure to decant 4 hours before starting on the next bottle. 92
Vince, a similar experience, my wine was much better 4-5 hours later. I meant to circle back to note that. I would not have thought a 1994 could use that much decanting.
L’Evangile was one of my favorite 1994s. I get a lot of sweet tertiary earthy and leathery notes mixed in with cassis and plum. Great structure, balance, and complexity without the harshness associated with the vintage.
