Popped and poured; no formal notes. The 2000 Chateau Musar Grand Vin Rouge pours a deep, slightly hazy garnet color with some signs of sediment. On the nose, this is drop dead gorgeous with all the vibes I would come to expect from a 20+ year old Musar. Clearly a vinous wine with a wonderful mix of red and dark fruit; mostly ripe while some dried fruits are beginning to appear. Earthy characteristics were also playing a strong supporting role along with sweet pipe tobacco, leather, some red and purple flowers, some green herbs, exotic spices and there was a touch of brettanomyces but nothing out of control. On the palate, the wine was quite spry with ample structure still; firm tanning and lovely acid. The finish was long and simply to die for. Musar's Grand Vin Rouge is often compared to some of the great wines from Bordeaux however, I have traditionally eschewed this comparison as I have found these wines to be almost singular. That being said, this bottle was far and away the most relatable to Bordeaux that I have so far experienced. It should also be noted that this bottle came to me ex-chateau a couple of years back and provenance likely had something to do with the strength of this showing. It was a fabulous pairing with grilled lamb chops and fattoush. Based off this experience, I expect well stored examples to drink well for at least another decade and likely, longer than that. — 9 months ago
Dry, sweet, spicy, easy to drink — 12 hours ago
“Perfectly rounded” was what first came to mind when I drank this. Rich and opulent, yet incredibly seamless. Even in its youth, the mealy and creamy vanilla oak character did not feel out of place, especially against the preserve-like fruits ranging from lemons to apricots. Expectedly long with a dense glycerol-like texture, savoury finish, and energising acidity. Not typically a style that I’d rave about, but credit where credit’s due, the concentration, texture, and oak quality were all remarkable. CW even went so far to say that it was Monty-like, and I’m certain he isn’t the first nor last person to make such a claim. However, we too noted that the warmth and lack of verticality in structure was a dead giveaway of its Napa origin. A contemplative wine of great presence at this point, but probably needs another decade or more to be truly digestible. — 2 years ago
Fint och svalt vin. Smakar svart vinbär. Dricks en varm dag på balkongen med litet snacks. — 4 years ago
Wow what a nose. Huge spice and violets and a feral quality. Glorious and expressive. Stunning. 9.6 nose. Smells ready to go which is in line with 2017 Walter. Also some dead leaves and tree bark. Palate is ripe, supple and juicy with great energy and freshness. Delicate yet intensely flavorful. So succulent. Red cherries galore and some cassis as well. Drink now with aplomb — a month ago
What a treat to enjoy this pristine bottle of Marcassin Pinot, perfectly stored since release, the wine had plenty of dark red fruit, a touch of floral perfume on the nose and then dead sexy on the palate, rich and balanced with a long silky finish. Thanks AT, it was even better enjoyed with you! — 2 years ago
Peter van den Besselaar
Vintage 2012 | Dark ruby colour, morello cherries and mint. Smooth taste. — 11 days ago