2008 Jeff Gordon Cellars Napa Valley Joie De Vivre

2008 Jeff Gordon Cellars Napa Valley Joie De Vivre

I participated in a virtual tasting last night hosted by Jeff Gordon Cellars featuring its Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah blend named Joie De Vivre. For those of you who have not taken part in a social media wine tasting, this is what it entails:

  1. Buy a bottle of the themed wine, in this case, 2008 Jeff Gordon Cellars Joie De Vivre.
  2. Gather with friends to share the experience or just put your JPs on and get in front of the computer.
  3. Sip and share your thoughts about the wine with other tasters from around the world. Cool no?

Back to the wine. The Cabernet is from Corbett Vineyards Spring Mountain, the Merlot from Solari Vineyard Calistoga and the Syrah from Page Nord Vineyard Yountville. Only 254 cases were produced, so get your thirsty hands on a bottle if you want to try it.

In the glass, it is dark purple and has me decanting half the bottle for later comparison. The nose is intense with aromas of ripe raspberry and juicy cherry exploding out of the glass. Ripe cherry, juicy stone fruit and dark berries flavors with a spice and smokey finish. The decanted wine has a lovely earthy flavor and the young tannins round up for a smooth mouthful.

Pairings:  Grilled beef, cured meats and cheese platter, pasta with red sauce.

Style: Red

Grape Type(s): Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah blend

Region: Napa Valley, California, USA

Price: $61

I am grateful to have been invited to sample this celebrity wine that, as seldom happens, turns out to be quite great.

For additional information about Jeff Gordon Cellars and its wines, visit: www.jeffgordonwine.com.

Cheers, Veronique

This wine was provided to me for sampling and I am adding to my repertoire as it is truly enjoyable.

1994 Chateau Troplong Mondot Saint Emilion Grand Cru

1994 Chateau Troplong Mondot Saint Emilion Grand Cru

A friend shared this special bottle at a recent dinner and it was just gorgeous.

In the glass, it is deep red with amazing legs. On the nose, this French Bordeaux is earthy with spiced notes. In the mouth, it is silky with rich plummy fruit. It is perfectly-balanced with fine tannins and stone fruit sweetness that is velvety and lasts forever.

Pairings:  Duck, beef, lamb.

Style: Red

Grape Type(s): Bordeaux Blend – Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot

Region: Bordeaux, France

Price: $69

2002 Chateau Preuillac Cru Bourgeois Medoc

2002 Chateau Preuillac Cru Bourgeois Medoc

Paired this French Bordeaux with rare roasted duck and it was a nice pairing.  In the glass, it’s brick red in color.  The nose is an appealing blend of plum, coffee and leather.  In the mouth, the stone fruit comes through along with vanilla and mocha notes.  Medium finish with softened tannins.

Pairings:  Grilled or roasted beef or duck.  Cheesy dishes.

Style: Red

Grape Type(s): 50% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc

Region: Bordeaux / Medoc, France

Around $25