2001 Joseph Phelps Le Mistral $18
“Inspired by the great red wine blends of the Rhône Valley†– maybe, but I say the Rhône Valley could learn a couple of things from this one.
Check the wine maker’s notes. This one is a blend of six different varietals, each contributing to the big bold taste of this wine.
I hate it when I come across a single bottle in a wine store where the little shelf card describes a wine in such a way that I can’t resist trying it. My rule is to buy two bottles of something that I haven’t tried before – one for right now, and the other for later if it is really nice. I’m guessing that I won’t see this one again – a shame.
This wine is a very dark purple. The aroma is a very concentrated black cherry. Nice fruit flavors, ripe but not too ripe, and the taste curve is perfectly balanced for my palette. There is a touch of spice, and the finish is very nice.
I tried this one with a barbequed steak and twice baked potato and it was great. Unfortunately, I had to pay $28 (it was still worth the money though.) Maybe the distributor read this posting??
I am in total agreement. I just bought seven bottles for $30 each and I’ll buy more if I can find it.
I agree – I saw the write-up, and had to pick it up. Luckily, though, I just found bottles for $15 each. I should pick up a case, no?