Mellower and Mellower

With most wines, we want them to lose the brashness of youth so they become more enjoyable to drink.  Even wines designed to be or are naturally refreshing.  The youngest rosés, Sauvignon Blancs and Chablis can be a bit too hard, harsh and acidic when just bottles, and a few months can help them become more enjoyable.  But one must be aware that a wine can become too soft and mellow.  Flabbiness is note a desirable trait either, and a wine that is overly soft is no longer a satisfying beverage.

The Roaders are always such hospitable hosts.  They know their wines, and when the ideal time to serve them.  Over a relaxed evening a dinner, we saw a number of excellent wines, but the first wine served was rather a surprise.  The 1997 Dietrich Alsace Grand Cru Steingrubler Tokay Pinot Gris Vendanges Tardives might be served later on during a meal, but at the very start can be quite valid too.  And this was The Roaders way of thinking.  Something ultra-smooth and mellow that would bring a smile to the face and a degree of satisfaction, without sating the palate.  Light golden yellow, the wine had become totally integrated, such that its varietal expression was fully melded with savoury secondary aromas and flavours, and the sweetness just smooth and gently flowing.  It was hard to pick out the components, as it was a complete and seamless entity.  The wine slipped down too easily, and we as well as the wine became mellower and mellower.