Medium Spice?

May 18, 2010


You have to love a night like this; pulled together at the last minute but everything came together in a wonderfully serendipitous way. It all started with a craving for good Thai food and turned into a visit to Meun Fan Thai (Mesa Thai), good friends (and some new ones), and perfectly appointed wines.

The bubbles would have been a perfect pairing, but alas, they were done before we got the restaurant. Fortunately for us, there were three other bottles of wine that both complimented the food and stood out enough for discussion. On this particular night, the food selection leaned to the more spicy and was probably my favorite visit to date. To start we enjoyed: chicken satay, egg rolls, and shrimp rolls. Followed by: drunken noodle with shrimp, green curry with chicken, sizzling platter with chicken, and spicy fried rice. All were especially delectable and really satisfied my cravings.

N.V. G. H. Mumm & Cie Champagne Grand Cru Brut Chardonnay Mumm De Cramant***
Not much of a mouse to speak of and larger than expected bubbles. Initially showed great verve and bright almost piercing acidity with bakery notes on the nose. This wine started to really show some complexity with more airtime as it gained richness and developed a vinosity that was very nice. Final notes were more honeyed and layered.

2007 Alma Rosa Pinot Blanc***
This wine is seriously one of the better Pinot Blancs that I've ever had. And, a fantastic bargain on top of that. High tones of citrus on the nose led into a creamy and delicate palate.

2008 Jaffurs Rose***
Starting to show a little bit of age with a softening of the edges. But still showing that fantastic dry rose character that I love about this particular bottling. Refreshing, cherry skins, and a wonderful match to the spicy Thai food.

2007 Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc***+
Youthful and bright on top of layered richness, adding endless enjoyment and interest to this wine. Citrus peel and strawberry guava developed into sumptuous and exotic mouthfuls of lychee and rambutan.

After all of that, we finished with something sweet and it was time to head home. This was one of those simple nights that truly engage, La Dolce Vita. Thanks for reading.

Cheers!

0 Stars - No rating
1 Star (*) - Not of significant quality or interest
2 Stars (**) - A notable wine of legitimate interest
3 Stars (***) - Great wine that should be searched out
4 Stars (****) - Fantastic wine that should not be missed
5 Stars (*****) - An absolutely mind-bending wine - beg, borrow, or steal to get your hands on some of this amazing juice!

Disclaimer: This rating is based on my palate and at the given time when tasted and may differ from yours. Also, I may catch a bottle in a dumb phase or it just may not speak to me at that particular time.