The Wine Witch should probably be self-serving and not promote the wine reviewing talents of others. However, I absolutely adore the wine columns in the Wall Street Journal by Dorothy J. Gaiter and John Brecher. They know more on the subject than I could ever hope to, but they are just so down to earth. I particularly loved a recent column regarding several personal wine experiences they had that did not live up to expectations. Rather than be disappointed, they embraced them. Each one gave them an additional point of reference and increased their knowledge. As Dorothy so aptly put it “Wine is a journey – not a destination” Cool!
This column came to mind when I had a bottle of the 2008 Apremont Vin de Savoie. Actually, it was the second time I had it. As I have often preached, become friends with your local wine merchant. I have come to greatly respect my local guy, Paul’s taste. He was completely enthusiastic about the Apremont and literally put it in my hands. I bought the first bottle with great anticipation. It was – good. However, the real result was that it caused me to doubt myself. Paul knows far more than me so I must be wrong. Over the weekend I got a second bottle. This time I understood the wine a little better and could appreciate what Paul saw in it. Did I like it any better? Not really, but that’s OK.
After all this rambling, I guess I should review this wine. The 2008 Apremont Vin de Savoie is made by Pierre Boniface from the Jacquere grape. This wine comes from the French Alps. The nose and predominant flavor is honeydew. There is a bit of a mineral background along with some spice. There is a bit of a spritz that reminds me of vinho verde. Overall this wine is VERY delicate. I get Paul’s reference of drinking from a pure alpine spring.
So here is a case where Paul would give the Apremont a 5+ and the Wine Witch a 3.5. Guess what, we are both right. The enjoyment of wine is completely personal. Learn to trust your own taste. Am I glad I had the Apremont Vin de Savoie – Absolutely! Am I going to go out and buy a third bottle – probably not, but that should not stop you.
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