Jeff Clavier's Buzzlog

Esprit de Beaucastel is a rhone blend (syrah, mourvedre, grenache, counoise) developed in the Paso Robles vineyard co-owned by the Pellerin family (of the Chateau Beaucastel fame). The grapes are actual produced from cuttings of the French vines, reimplanted in California.
Liked it a lot, but it has to be drunk quite quickly, as the latest bottles I opened were turning slightly dry.

I bought 2001 futures in the US, and picked up my order yesterday at K&L Wine in Redwood City (2 1/2 years later). I had almost forgotten that I had "loaded up" that much.
The 2001 vintage was exceptional for Sauternes, and at least half of my order was for some Lafaurie Peraguey, Guiraud, Suduiraut, Doisy Vedrines,... These wines will last for 20 to 30 years minimum. Also got some nice magnums of Pichon Lalande, Cos d'Estournel, Carruades de Lafite,...

And remember: have a designated driver, or have all your guests stay at your place, if you decide to "wine and dine" tonight :-).