H. Billiot Fils

Réserve Brut Grand Cru Champagne Blend

Alan Weinberg

9.2

So good I opened another. — a month ago

Tom, Mike and 1 other liked this

G. H. Mumm & Cie

Grand Cordon Brut Champagne

Ming L

9.0

Lively red apple, ripe pear, grapefruit and citrus zest, and subtle red berry notes, with a hint of toasted brioche. The fine mousses are quite vigorous in the bottle, leading to a refreshing, clean finish. Easy to enjoy. — 6 months ago

Bob liked this

Château Musar

Bekaa Valley Red Blend 2014

Jay Kline

9.4

The 2014 vintage was the last harvest while Serge Hochar was still alive. He tragically drowned while on holiday, NYE in 2014. I have no logical reason to be wary of Musar’s future as the team involved in producing the wines have been in place for some time. However, Serge’s death was for me, the loss of an wine hero. This is my first experience with the 2014 and I can’t help but reflect on the unforgettable experiences I’ve had drinking wines that he produced.

Decanted for several hours prior to dinner, the wine appears a deep purple turning garnet after plenty of air with an opaque core. High intensity, medium+ viscosity, a touch of sediment. On the nose, this is a wild carnival for the senses with cherries, mulberries, rhubarb pie, Twin Bing, harissa, kofta, pipe tobacco, oud, teriyaki, and event canned peaches (though only after some time in the glass). On the palate, things are much more modest with a very compelling cherry compote and bright cranberry notes with some tobacco and baking spices. Very primary at this stage. Medium tannin with medium+ acid. The finish long…forever and a day with dried cherries and dates bringing me home. While still an infant, this is shaping up to be a lovely and long-lived vintage of Musar Rouge. Cheers, Serge. Your legacy lives on. — 4 years ago

Andrew, Severn and 15 others liked this

Jay Kline

@Severn Goodwin 🙏🏽