Nose does not want to present. On the palate post 90 min decant, I am tasting jam, peppercorn, vegetal character, cocoa, plum blackberries and graphite. Old world style..subtle nuances for Napa. It would be easy to dismiss this wine; for the price point it actually was delightful. — 2 years ago
The Chimère from Manfred Krankl of Sine Qua Non fame, and the Maurel brothers of Clos Saint Jean, is, appropriately, a beast. Cherry, blackcurrant, Christmas spice, violets and chocolate. Many elements combine to make a compelling wine that deserves attention over time. Indeed, when this bottle was initially opened, the prevailing thought at the table was that it would last months. A small tipple to check in, some time later, was tasted with our own resident chimera (well at least she sort of has the head of Lion element down) present. — 6 years ago
Very nice sweet wine (and a fun vineyard to visit) — 2 years ago
Nose has blackberry jam, old cedar closet, wet leather, dried blueberries, dried cherries and moist mahogany shavings.
Palate has blueberry jelly with a dash of cayenne, blackberry fruit leather, humid cocoa powder, dried tart cherry with a long finish. The blueberry jelly notes persist for 1-2m, amazing.
Decanted 5H at time of notes, continuing to evolve. 🥳 Enjoy 2026-32, from proper storage.
Paired with our Superbowl Sunday traditional feast, pulled pork. This year were going local (as always) with both pork shoulder and ham hocks from our bi-annual purchase of one-half piggy from Highland Farm (Old Chatham, NY); love your farmers! Shoulder was dry rubbed and rested, then into the slow cooker for 9H, talk about falling apart!
Pork shoulder and hocks for two...I pretty much know what my lunch is going to be for about the next two weeks. 😋
Go Bengals! 🐅 — 3 years ago
Mary H
Tastes like rainbow kittens 🌈 — a year ago