I tend to get confused by the Bordeaux classification system, and I am not always sure which classification is best...or how much that matters.

I tend to favor Bordeaux wines with the Margaux appellation and have found them to be remarkably consistent. I had a chance to put this to the test the other night. A friend came over for dinner and we had two bottles, the first was a 1983 Chateau Brane-Cantenac, the second was a 1993 Chateau Cantenac Brown:





Both wines were excellent, and have aged very nicely giving them a full-bodied, yet smooth taste and a medium finish. Both have received 90+ ratings, and who am I to argue with the "experts"

The Chateau Brane-Cantenac is considered second growth, and is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc.

The Chateau Cantenac Brown is a third growth and is 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, and 6% Cabernet Franc.

We finished up the evening with Texas Chocolate cake served with Hope's Raspberry Merlot, which I have already reviewed.

A little late with this one, but Williamsburg Winery has released a Viognier. I have not tried it yet, but if it is like WW's other wines, it should be very good. Of course, the big question is: can it stand up to the king of all Virginia Viognier wines.