22 Sep, 2006
Chateau Canuet Margaux 1994 Bordeaux (France)
Interesting
It was a LONG week full or twists and turns and changed minds all over the place. Dinner was no exception. I had readied this bottle yesterday "just in case" but the CASE was WRONG. Today I put it in the fridge for a few minutes not knowing where dinner would come from - possibly a burger for this French cab? No, wrong guess...I was served McDonald's most excellent McRib sandwich, and Marjorie had fruit and yogurt. Talk about a culinary fiasco. McDonald's paired with a 1994 Bordeaux? Well, we're going back to Jungle Jim's near Cincy tomorrow (several acres of wine) where I found this cheap. I figured, if it was GREAT, we'd pick up more. The cork looked good out of the bottle so that was a good sign. Nice, understated nose of bright red berry and spice. What a pretty colour in the glass! On the palate, a delightful chorus of fresh red berry. Along for the ride is that familiar "earthy" barnyard taste. I find it a lot in chianti's, but it's my first for France. Maybe because this bottle is 12+ years old? First taste was...oh, crap - barnyard! 2nd taste was...yeah, but it's interesting. Even after 12 years, the tannins are still here, but they're not undoable. The mouthfeel is great. Very sensual - light yet silky. It would be nice to try this with a jiucy steak, but for tonight, a McRib and fruit yogurt will have to do. it was an interesting experience.
Rating: 7 out of 10
Postscript: After an hour in the glass, the funky barnyard character seemed to fade, replaced with a hint of cinnamon/black tea spice. Much nicer. Note to self: if I ever find this again, let'er breathe a bit before imbibing.
Updated rating: 7.75 out of 10