I helped organize a cigar dinner at the MGM Casino in Macau for the Hong Kong Tatler. You know how focused on Bordeaux the HK consumer can be, so I decided to serve two Chateauneufs — a white with a carpaccio of Australian scallops and a red with pan-seared goose liver. Both wines were from Domaine des Sénéchaux, which the Cazes family bought in 2006; the clan also owns Bordeaux’s Lynch-Bages. In any case, the 2007 white Chateauneuf, which is mostly Grenache blanc, was full yet fresh with dried lemon rind, mineral and subtle lime undertones. It was even a little chalky. Fun wine. 91 points. The 2006 Chateauneuf was lightly raisiny with dried dark fruits and a light smoky, meaty undertone. It was rich yet not overpowering or jammy. Ready to drink. Also 91 points. The crowd of about 110 people seemed surprised with the two wines.
