Tasting at Manor House Cellar-The reds

Last night I went to Manor House Cellar on 23rd St. for a tasting of wines selected by the store’s two wine consultants, Michael and Mauro. All the wines were excellent. Here’s the rundown….

Corbierres, Domaine Fiallenc Ste. Marie 2003
This will make you tongue back-flip, wild black and red fruits on the palate. Barnyard on the nose, be careful not to hurt yourself when sampling the aroma. It’s very tasty, a blast to drink. $21.99.

Pic Saint Loop, Chateau de Lancyre 2003
Far more elegant and subtle than the Corbierres, this wine is a beautiful blend of well-balanced fruit. The tannins are nice and soft. Be sure to decant or let it breathe for a while before quaffing. $24.99

Bourgogne, Domaine Pierre Matrot 1998
One of Burgundy’s best years for Pinot, soft smooth tannin. Again, let it open up. Either decant or let it sit open for a couple of hours before quaffing. So easy to drink, you’ll polish off the bottle the first night. Great value at $21.99

Bourgogne, Domaine A-F Gros 2002
My God. This is some great pinot, elegant, well-balanced fruit. This is the entry level wine for these wine makers. Superb and luxurious, this is a red-carpet Bourgogne. $32.99 and worth every penny.

Bandol Rouge, Domaine La Suffrene 2001
What a lovely, velvety wine. It’s just gorgeous from the nose to the finish, smooth, soft tannins. Just magnificent. $28.99 and a great value.