Telegramme:
This is the 2002 cuvee from the producers of Dom. Vieux Telegraphe, a
declassified one-off produced after the fall rains ruined most of the
crop just before harvest.

Very light color, and I could swear that it looked pale at the rim, but
that could have been a trick of the light caused by the thick glasses
it was served in (I was at a friend's house). Very promising,
structured nose indicating tannin and solid complexity with some fruit.
Thinnish mouthfeel followed by a good but not great, medium finish,
with a very red fruit-forward flavor. The tannins hinted at by the
nose were nowhere to be seen, and it lacked the complexity I had hoped
for. That being said, this was a pleasant enough wine, but its not a
bargain priced Vieux Telegraphe. I'd buy it again at $18-$20, but not
at $29.


2002 Las Rocas:
This was the polar opposite of the Telegramme, which was consumed at
the same time. Very dark ruby/purple in the glass, with a massive
fruit-bomb of a nose, with only subtle hints of complexity. This wine
is somewhat surprising once sipped, because in the mouth you are met
with firm but not harsh tannins, dark fruit, and a great oaky
complexity with a medium finish. The fruit is there, but it is much
better balanced and complex than the nose would indicate. Quite a
surprise. A steal at $8.99.

- Chris