Two Bordeaux from the 2002 Vintage

I was fortunate to have enjoyed two very special, rare Bordeaux from the generally unremarkable 2002 vintage. This was a special learning experience: since the miserable weather in Bordeaux was on both sides of the river, it allows an apples to apples comparison of the region's different styles of wine. For those who aren't Bordeaux experts, the region is split into several parts, but the biggest distinction is between the Left Bank, which is Cabernet dominated, and the Right Bank, which is Merlot dominated. Sometimes the weather is great on one side and not the other, so you can have a great year for the left and bad for the right, and vice versa. Since Merlot is usually picked earlier in the season than Cabernet, a late harvest rain storm can destroy the Cab while the Merlot is already fermenting. You get the idea.

Anyway, the wines were a 2002 Pontet Canet (Pauillac) and a 2002 Chateau Montviel (Pomerol). These are both made by companies that produce mainly non kosher wine, with a special batch set aside for the kosher consumer. The wines get mostly the same treatment. Both wines were very classy and elegant. Each represented its respective region; the Pontet Canet was darker and had tar/graphite notes, while the Montviel was smooth and very approachable. These are two wines that are not to be missed! Check them out.

2002 Chateau Pontet-Canet, Pauillac: Wonderful aromas of cranberry, tobacco, and graphite. Great balance between the earthiness and fruit. You can tell that there is a nice amount of Cabernet in this wine. Still a little tannic, but much better than it was when I tried it over a year ago. Definitely drinkable now, and will go for another 9+ years. A great surprise.

2002 Chateau Montviel, Pomerol: This wine is made by the producers of Ch. Le Gay and others in Pomerol. Delicious aromas of strawberry, milk chocolate, and the slightest bit of espresso. A touch of earthiness but nothing green and unappealing. The texture of this wine is worth the price of admission; it's very smooth and velvety. Drink now and for another five years, when the light ruby color of this wine will gradually fade to an orangy brick.