Friday, March 25, 2011

Tasting Journal - Northstar Columbia Valley Merlot 2006 - Elisabeth Chambellan Vielles Vignes Chateauneuf-Du-Pape 2007



Northstar Columbia Valley Merlot 2006 
Medium to full-bodied, dark garnet color - forward fruit, complex but polished for easy pleasant drinking - rich concentrated fruit flavors of black raspberry, blackberry, hints of black cherry and plum with tones of spicy clove, cinnamon cigar box and a hint of black chocolate on the nicely balanced moderate silky tannin finish. This is the most flavorful and polished Northstar in many years, reminiscent of the mid-nineties. RM 91 Points. 

The 2006 Merlot Columbia Valley is 76% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot - aged in French and American oak, 65% new, for 18 months. The fruit was sourced from 14 different vineyards.
Tasted at Petits Plats at Woodley Park in Washington D.C. w/ George N - a perfect complement to the beef borgogne and the dark chocolate supreme. Fantastic cozy atmosphere, best foie gras ever, wonderful chocolate desert, great value authentic country French dining.
Northstar Columbia Valley Merlot 2006
Second wine tasted w/ dinner:

Elisabeth Chambellan Vielles Vignes Chateauneuf-Du-Pape 2007

Ruby colored - medium bodied - black cherry, redcurrants, red berries and hint of licorice and leather on the moderate tannin medium finish. RM 88 points.