The Second Glass

As soon as I walked into the Cyclorama on Wednesday the scent of wines wafted up to greet me and I knew I was in the right place. The wines were flowing at the Boston Center for the Arts on Wednesday, June 11th for the which was one of Boston’s Best kept secrets. Open only to those in the trade and press, it was not advertised widely and was sparsely attended. BUT the wines were excellent, and the food was catered by the superb L’Espalier Restaurant. The wines, décor and cuisine were all indigenous to the French style so that I had to remind myself I didn’t go to France–yet. Gladly, the pourers had much time to devote to my knowledge of the terroir, the winemaking, and they helped me get the complete story of the wines. The photos, maps and geography of the different regions displayed the multiple factors that make French wines so delectable.

Some of the stellar wines were from Domaine Lucien Albrecht; their 2004 Pinot Noir Amplus was succulent. The very elegant Pinot Noir had cherry tones and the long powerful finish pulls you back for more. Fortunately, I moved forward to wines from the producer Benedicte Claudel, who brought some delicious Rieslings. The Alsatian Riesling was fresh, lively and deliciously refreshing. Their 2005 Domaine du Chateau Riquewihr, Les Sorcieres, (the Witches) Gewurztraminer was entrancing. With mouth-filling sweetness it was a perfect match with the earthy, smoky blue cheeses and pates available at the show.

I know I don’t get out enough, but I was impressed to meet the Jean Trimbach who was pouring for F.E. Trimbach. After admiring his wines for so many years it was a real treat to meet him and enjoy the Trimbach specialties. One was the delicious and crowd pleasing wines was the 2001 Cuvee Des Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre Gewurtraminer. Also ripe and alluring was their 2001 Selection de Grains Nobles Gewurtraminer, this wine was sweet but balanced with some acidity. It did have some spiciness to it so it could be matched with spicy foods and pate!!! There were several winemakers there who discussed their craft, which added to the genuine feeling of the show.

The Domaine de Coste Chaude wines made by the charming couple Marianne & Marc Fues. Their 2007 Coste Chaude, Cotes du Rhone Villages, was a fantastic find but a big tease because it is unavailable in the area. It tasted like a powerhouse of grenache and syrah with a very bold palate presence. A really exceptional wine but unfortunately not available in this state yet. BUT it is sold in New York—(Worth the trip—I think).

The people, place, food and the wines were a winning combination plan. It was the ultimate way to taste wine; with some relaxing discussions, in a nice place, with good food and a few friends. For more information about this event and their upcoming tasting in May check out the website.