GK wrote:
On the subject of Cono Sur, I have a bottle of (Aldolfo) Hurtado Reserve Casablanca Pinot Noir '06 for over the weekend, part of an interesting sale case from Laithwaites. The case also includes a bottle of Domaine Raimbault-Pineau Cuvée Cassandra 2007 (not originally listed in case contents), what do you think G, a nice Pouilly-Fumé?
That is a nice case GK, and even without the extra £25 off voucher, represents a good deal.
The Domaine Dampt Vieilles Vignes 2007, I had bought a case of the 2005, and have one left to experiment with ageing. Of the 2005, it was a very rich honeyed Chablis, buttery 3 years on and still fresh, but with body and a silky mouth feel, not flinty or wet tarmac, but lovely French Chardonnay. Much nicer than supermarket Chablis for similar money. One of the best non cru Chablis I've had in recent years - could be the 2005 climat in that domaine of course.
Of the Oratoire de Millegrand Viognier 2007. I ordered 6 in early 2007 of the 2005. This is lovely fresh apricot at first going to an overipe peach on the finish, a similar style to Chateau Tahbilk Marsanne from OZ. A rich and yet a very French (refined) style. This also feels super in the mouth and has very good legs. 2007 was magnifique for syrah Rhone rouge, and may well have been an excellect season for Viognier as well. The 2005 was very full, and delicious chilled.
The Durif from Warburn Estate could be good if it has enough structure from shrivelled overipe skins and the 2007 drought. I have found it an easy drinking wine in 2004. Very Creamy; Think unsweetened prunes and double cream. Very soft and sometimes lacking in acid and tannin, and therefore 'unable to cut the palate'. Hopefully the new oak will provide a framework to prop that very thick and velvety cloak. Black Stump is very similar.
I've had quite a few STWC Hugh Johnson's Chablis choices, probably too many

I'd be interested to know what the Damp 2007 is like. I do not favour the winceing overdry fruitless Chablis that use to be so fashionable in snobby West end circles. 1er Cru Chablis that is at first demi sec from the Beauroy and on the slopes around village of Bienes in West Chablis matures at 6 - 8 years to something truly wonderfull.
If you can get away from Supermarket Chablis, you will be pleasantly surprised by all the boutique domaine styles. These are not more expensive for the quality !