As a multiply confessed Burgundy bigot it is so interesting to be on vacation in California, and privileged to be staying at such great properties in Big Sur.
We are traveling back to SF tomorrow.
I have been concentrating on whites for these first few days of the vacation, and I have had some duffers and recently some wines that I have very much enjoyed.
I have two observations so far:
1) Price point.
We went to Californian supermarkets and I just chose the most expensive wines they had on the shelves. But - these were around $20 - a different price point from my fine Burgundies at home - $450 a case - so almost $40 a bottle.
Even restaurant wines - backing off a 100% markup - are not what I would pay for fine Burgundies. The culture seems to be focused on value. Laudable of course, but different.
2) Nose
Those wines that I have enjoyed, although not thrilling at all - have been consistent on the palette - clear, vibrant - but always lacking in the bouquet.
I don't know what this means yet. If I am given a Mersault or a Puligny of any quality, much of that experience is in the nose.. With American wines it seems to be different.
I am looking forwards to SF and to try to explore on a more informed basis the finest American wines, and to putting my Burgundy bias to bed - once and for all!
This is a great country and a great State, and I am hoping to find US wines that really inspire me!
1 comments:
Argh - first night back in SF - dinner - half a bottle of Chassagne.. still a Burgundy bigot - must make more effort!
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