Scoring 18 points on the Dionysian 20-point scale, cost $14 in 1970, with 12% alcohol, the 1962 Chateau Pavie 1er Grand Cru Classe’ Saint-Emilion held together quite well for 58 years. I was graduating high school and drinking beer.
It was still mostly ruby-red, with a full and deep amber-brown edge. Tobacco rose first. Then, leather, spices, and hints of smoky red fruits like wild cherries. Perfectly soft after decanting and tasting it immediately.
Of course it was the focal point of our meal, a simple pasta. The 1961, that I had some notes on, was super and I never expected this lesser year to show so well.
Opening older wines during this critical period of national isolation helps to keeps one’s sanity. However, I realize that wines like this are even better when sharing them… and I will. This bottled lasted nearly an hour before beginning to fade. Today, Pavie cost as much a Cheval Blanc, or Chateau Ausone, wines I can no longer afford. Look them up. I’m thinking of every Dionysian member and everyone I know who enjoys a great wine when I sip from my cellar. In Vino Veritas.
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