Penfolds and Clos Mimi

Dinner at Neighborhood.

Egly-Ouriet Brut Rosé Grand Cru, dégorgée en Novembre 2014 - this has some nice age to it, so it's got plenty of complexity and that savory profile I love so much. Such a treat.

1981 Penfolds Grange, re-corked August 22, 2025 - this was the bottle that was deemed "sub-standard" at the Penfolds Re-corking Clinic, so I figured I'd bring it out and drink it with a couple of Grange lovers. We opened it and decanted it after about 30 minutes, and the nose was definitely still pretty fragrant, with plenty of coconut butter I love so much.

Bought from Sotheby's for HKD 3,100.

2023 Yukidoke Shonai Blanc, from half-bottle - a curious blend of about a dozen grape varietals. In addition to the main ones like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Riesling, there was also Gewurztraminer... which explained why it was so tropical with prominent lychee notes. Very ripe and very sweet on the palate.

2003 Clos Mimi Syrah Brave Oak Vineyard - this has clearly aged and mellowed, and no longer as vibrant as it was in its youth. A little disappointing, to be honest.

Bought from the winery for USD 50 plus tax.

Full post on dinner is here.