Yes - those bottles are empty.
They are now redundant wine-less vessels of Sunday night's epic rugby final BBQ - chez Phil and his charming assistant. Not having the spare $NZ 3,000 plus, for tickets to the game, nor the industry connections to score freebies, we opted for a night at home in front of the flat screen, with rugby fan friends and some good food & wine. My TradeMe BBQ for all its eccentricity coped well with the flow of chicken wings, shrimps, sausages and steak - and a great time was had by all.
Lucky for me, two friends brought some damn fine French wines with them to share. And I opened a bottle of my current favourite, West Brook's Ivicevich Estate Chardonnay.
West Brook Ivicevich Waimauku Estate Chardonnay 2004
Gorgeous Chardonnay at its peak after seven years in the bottle. Golden and clear with aromas and flavours of brioche, peach, nectarine and hazel nut. Mouthfulling and seamlessly integrated, this wine lasts on the palate and draws you back for another glass.
Domaine du Margallau Vouvray 2009
Made from Chenin Blanc fruit from France's famous Vouvray region in the Loire.
Ripe and fruity wine with crisp acidity and rounded flavours of honey, pear and a hint of smokiness.
Cotes Du Rhone Linteau 2009
I can't find out much about this wine - other than it is Grenache-dominant blend from the Appellation Controlee certified producer. Anyway - ruby red colour with slightly rustic and savour flavours, plus cherry, blackberry and plum, with a slight acidity. Drinking very nicely now - even better in a year or two.
Verdict: wine and The All Blacks were the winners on the day.
Phil runs wine tours in Auckland NZ
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