MARK FINE: WINEFREAK (THE MISCHIEVIOUS MERLINESQUE MAGIC SHOW OF GERARD BERTRAND WINES)

Last week, our good friend and Cutting Edge rep Lauren came by with magic man/US Director of Gerard Bertrand wines, Mark Fine, so along with tasting through several of the wines, we were treated to coin and card tricks (I have to say that is a first for me).

Gerard Bertrand Cremant de Limoux 2007. Grade=Outstanding. A light-bodied sparkler featuring a blend of Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Mauzac (predominantly). Tastes of light lemon verbena, pineapple, and hints of toasted brioche. Nice finish.

Gerard Bertrand Chardonnay Natural VDP 2009. Grade=Outstanding. Crisp, clean, showcasing organically grown grapes. Light-bodied Chard with notes of tropical and stone fruit aromas and flavors and nice acidity.

Gerard Bertrand Chardonnay VDP 2009. Grade=Outstanding. Sees 10% new oak to give it a bit more creamy apple and pear nuances, hints of baking spice, and underpinnings of white flowers, mineral and lemon zest.

Gerard Bertrand Pinot Noir VDP 2008. Grade=Outstanding. A very nice, well-delineated Pinot Noir with red cherry, cola, blood orange and red tea notes, some soft tannins, and hints of cinnamon, truffle, and earth.

Gerard Bertrand Merlot Natural 2006. Grade=Outstanding. Lean yet well-balanced Merlot with dark cherry and plum aromas and flavors, distinguished earth and mineral tones and hints of mint and sage.

Gerard Bertrand Cabernet Sauvignon VDP 2007. Grade=Average. A decent Cab though not much on depth. Some smoky black fruits, a bit of baking spice and some earthy wood tones but a bit lackluster at the end.

Gerard Bertrand Corbieres Rouge 2006. Grade=Outstanding. This blend of Carignan, Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre is medium-to-full-bodied with some spicy red berry fruit, white pepper, and hints of roasted herbs and game qualities.

Gerard Bertrand Chateau l’Hospitalet Rouge 2006. Grade=Outstanding. This GSM blend is supple, dark and full of red and purple fruit surprises. It has a hint of rich oak, baking spice, dark chocolate, rhubarb, and red currants. A real treat.

Overall the wines were great, and thank you Mark for entertaining us - it’s rare to do in our roaring bedlam here at the store. Cheers to ya!