So Betsy was perusing the new Mark Bittman book , decided to try one of
Daniel Boulud's lamb recipes. Lamb chop marinated in orange juice and
zest, grilled with zucchini and yellow squash, and then topped with a
reduction of the marinade and orange marmalade. Lamb made me think
Bordeaux or Bordeaux varietals, but the citrus, plus the fact we were
eating outside on a warm day, didn't make me want to try a better
claret. So I went looking for a cheapie, and found one I can't remember
buying, the 1998 Puy Guilhem (Fronsac). Fully mature, not much in the
way of tannins remaining. This could use a bit more tannin and/or acid
for structure, but not bad. Dark berry and plum fruit, some cedar and
bay leaf. OK quaffer, fits the bill for an al fresco summer lamb wine.
I check Access this AM, no clue where I bought it but it was $9. Good
deal at that price. B


Grade disclaimer: I'm a very easy grader, basically A is an excellent
wine, B a good wine, C mediocre. Anything below C means I wouldn't
drink at a party where it was only choice. Furthermore, I offer no
promises of objectivity, accuracy, and certainly not of consistency