Bogle phantom

2007
Petite Sirah, Old Vine Zin, Old Vine Mourvedre
California

There's that word I love to say over and over: "Mourvedre". It is indeed time again for "phantom". If you've never tried it, buy some. It is only released in the fall and its usual distinct flavor I await with anticipation.

I wish I could say I am a sophisticated taster. However, upon first heady smokey "sniff", I declared in my head "Yes!". I then tasted and the first words that totally popped into my head were (in the accent and bass of "Austin Powers"): "YEAH, Baby!" I then proceeded to thank God out loud for his blessings over the vines and allowing the conditions needed to present this awesome flavor. The Guy was put off by my outward devotion to a being who did not actually physically purchase the bottle.

I am indeed thankful tonight for a nice wine experience that I haven't enjoyed in awhile. Smoke, creosote and BIG stone fruit flavor and my personal favorite "warm rocks in the sun" taste enveloped my tongue in ecstasy. :)


He, amid his figs and wine
Cried, "Oh, loving friends of mine
Pleasures come but not to stay
Even this shall pass away"

Theodore Tilton, 1866 poem, resurrected in Robert Plant's, "Even This Shall Pass Away"


8.50 out of 10
14.5% alc. by vol.
$20/750 ml. bottle
boglewinery.com

Clos Du Bois Merlot

2006
North Coast
California

It's been awhile. This wasn't my first choice for a review following such a long absence. However, it is what it is. For the price, I expected more. It's a good wine, just didn't knock my socks off. Not a lot of big flavor. Smooth with some subtle berry and oak, but not enough wham to catch my attention. About the same with food. However, I didn't have it with red meat as suggested. I had it with grilled chicken. The Guy really liked it. A lot more than I did.

I am forever looking for a repeat of the year 1993 and it just never happens. Interestingly metaphoric.


Oh the rain is falling (blow blow down)
And the wild wind roars (blow blow down)
It'll shake your windows (blow blow down)
And rattle your doors (blow blow down)
Ah blow down this house of cards
Blow down this house of cards

(Written by Richard Thompson, sung by Robert Plant and Patty Griffin)


7.5 out of 10
$18 / 750 ml. bottle
13.5% alc. by vol