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PublishedRichebourg 1990Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC)In the wine book Miyabi was readingA timeless symphony of richnessSo, you know about Domaine de la Romanée-Conti's Richebourg 1990? It's this amazing Pinot Noir from Burgundy, and even after all these years, it still captures the heart. It's the kind of wine everyone dreams of tasting once in their lifetime, and when you finally do, you get why it's so special.
In volume 1, when Miyabi was looking through that wine book, she probably felt the allure too. It's like the wine jumps out of the pages right into your imagination with its special aura.
Check out the color first—it's got this deep garnet hue with a brick-ish, orange rim. When you bring the glass to your nose, you're greeted with dried figs and hints of tea, like you're taking a walk through an autumn forest. It just pulls you right in.
Taking a sip, you get this mellow sweetness that unfolds into a rich acidity, really nice. And those tannins—so velvety, they almost dance elegantly across your tongue. The finish is long, inviting you to savor every moment. Truly an elegant bottle with a lingering finish, something special for sure.Read review - 2
PublishedRomanée-Conti 1985Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC)Miyabi shows a wine from the book to a part-timerThe pinnacle of Burgundy experienceHey, Romanée-Conti 1985 is a real treat, you know? This wine from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti is practically legendary in Burgundy, crafted entirely from Pinot Noir from just 1.8 hectares of vineyard. Opening a bottle like this feels like a special occasion all on its own.
Remember in volume 1 when Miyabi shows this wine to her part-time job colleagues? It was a moment where she really tried to convey the magic and prestige of this bottle. You could feel the allure and mystery of the wine coming through in that scene.
Now, take a look at this wine. After 41 years, the color has this lovely brickish hue with a hint of orange at the rim. And when you take a sniff, it's like you're walking through a damp forest, with earthy notes and a touch of mushrooms and sous-bois. There's also this elegant mix of ripe raspberries and blueberries that makes you want to breathe it in deeply.
When you sip it, it's as smooth as silk, with a rich burst of fruit flavors filling your mouth. The acidity is rounded, and the tannins are velvety, giving the wine a beautifully balanced structure. The finish goes on for ages, leaving a subtle sweetness that lingers quietly. Tasting this feels like time has stopped, just savoring the moment.Read review - 3
PublishedRichebourg 1959Domaine de la Romanée-ContiThe wine Shizuku decants after a customer complains to MiyabiThe red magic of historyYou know, the 1959 Richebourg from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti is something special. This vineyard is famed for producing some of the best Pinot Noir in Burgundy. It's the kind of bottle any wine lover would dream of opening, especially to appreciate the layers of complexity that come with age.
It pops up in the first volume of 'The Drops of God'. There's this scene where Miyabi gets into a bit of a pickle, and Shizuku steps in to decant this wine. It's like the wine itself is a character, slowly revealing its secrets as it breathes, which perfectly mirrors its rich flavor profile.
When you pour it, you'll notice a beautiful brick color with a hint of orange at the rim, like an aged gem. The aroma hits you immediately with ripe black cherries and plums, underscored by hints of tea and dried herbs. On the palate, the tannins are silky, wrapping around your tongue, while the mature acidity gives it a nice backbone. It's beautifully balanced, revealing new layers with each sip.
The finish is long, leaving a lingering sense of elegance. It's best to serve this a bit warmer and take your time with it. Use a nice big glass and really savor every moment.Read review - 4
PublishedPommard Les Rugiens Bas 1999Domaine Aleth Le Royer-GirardinA wine Miyabi vintage-compared with a friendCrimson passion transcending timePommard Rugiens Bas 1999 is one of those Pinot Noirs from Burgundy that really stands out. Domaine Alette Le Royer Girardin has bottled this beauty, and it's known for bringing out the best in its terroir. The 1999 vintage is particularly special, so there's a lot to look forward to.
In Volume 1, there's this scene where Miyabi and a friend are comparing vintages, and this wine catches their attention. As soon as you pour it, that deep ruby color just lights up the glass, doesn't it? You could see how it mesmerized them with its captivating hue.
When you take a sniff, you'll notice ripe cherries and plums, like you're wandering through an orchard. There's also a hint of dried herbs and tea, giving it a complex aroma. On the palate, the tannins are dense and well-structured, yet they glide smoothly like velvet. The acidity is strong, providing a solid backbone that keeps everything in balance.
The finish is long, with the fruit aromas lingering and inviting you back for another sip. This wine is elegant and complex, perfect for savoring on a special occasion. Use a medium-sized glass and let it breathe a bit to fully appreciate its layers.Read review - 5
PublishedPommard Rugiens Bas 2000Domaine Aleth Le Royer-GirardinA wine Miyabi vintage-compared with a friendA red filled with Burgundy passionSo, Domaine Arlette Le Royer Girardin, you know, they're out in Pommard, Burgundy, making this 100% Pinot Noir. It's a family-run winery, and this 2000 vintage has been resting for 26 years, just waiting for you to open and enjoy.
In the first volume of 'The Drops of God', there's this scene where Miyabi compares vintages with her friends, and this wine makes an appearance. It's the kind of wine that lets you feel the passage of time, especially when shared with friends, right?
Pour a glass, and you'll see this deep garnet color that's just stunning. On the nose, there's this rich aroma of ripe black cherries that makes you feel like you're surrounded by the fruit itself. Then, you get hints of damp earth and spice that weave together into a complex and inviting scent.
Take a sip, and you feel this lively acidity dancing across your tongue. Then, the dense black cherry flavor unfolds, and the tannins are so smooth, they just caress your palate like velvet. The finish is long, with a gentle whisper of oak that lingers quietly—it's perfect for sharing with friends and savoring every last drop.Read review - 6
PublishedRichebourg 1959Henri JayerThe wine Yutaka Kanzaki was drinking before he diedThe singular profundity in a glassHenri Jayer's Richebourg is one of those truly special Burgundy Pinot Noirs. This bottle, crafted by Jayer himself, is a testament to his passion and skill. And with a vintage like 1959, popping it open feels like you're about to experience something extraordinary.
The wine appears in the first volume, you know, when Shizuku's father, Yutaka Kanzaki, was savoring it before he passed away. It's a scene that really sticks with you—how this wine was part of his final moments, capturing life's beauty and fragility. The fact that Richebourg was his last choice feels almost destined.
Take a look at this. As you pour it into your glass, you’ll see that beautiful brick color at the rim, showing its age gracefully. The aroma is deep and complex, with hints of dried fruits, tea, and sous bois wafting up. When you take a sip, you'll feel those well-integrated tannins—strong yet silky, wrapping around your palate. The acidity is lively, keeping everything beautifully balanced.
And that finish? It’s long and spicy, lingering on your senses. To really appreciate this wine, you should use a slightly larger glass and savor it slowly. No decanting needed—just enjoy it as it is. It’s elegant and complex, offering something new with every sip.Read review - 7
PublishedChâteau Mouton Rothschild 1982Château Mouton RothschildBlind tasting between Shizuku and Issei for the estate — Millet’s The AngelusA miracle of timeless opulenceYou've probably heard of Château Mouton Rothschild, right? It's that famous Bordeaux estate, and the 1982 vintage is really something special. Made mainly from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, it's got over four decades of aging, giving it some serious depth.
Remember when this wine showed up in "Drops of God" in the first volume? Shizuku and Issei had a blind tasting battle with it, wagering an estate. The scene was so vivid, like Millet's "The Angelus," with both of them catching the profound nature of the wine.
Pour some out and take a look. It's got this deep garnet color with a hint of brick at the rim. When you take a sniff, you get these intense blackberry and blackcurrant aromas right away. Give it a bit, and you'll start to notice sweet vanilla and toasted oak slipping in. Plus, thanks to the aging, there's this lovely mix of tea and dried herbs in the background.
Now, go ahead and take a sip. Those silky tannins just glide over your tongue, and it's packed with this black cherry fruitiness. The acidity is vibrant, and everything's in perfect balance. And the finish—wow, it just goes on and on, with a little tobacco and earthy note sneaking in at the end. You'll enjoy it even more if you decant it before drinking.Read review - 8
PublishedChâteau Mont-Pérat 2001DespagneA wine served at Fujieda’s wine bar — the Queen rock-band wineA Bordeaux with the heart of rock and rollChâteau Mont-Pérat by the Despagne family, from Bordeaux, vintage 2001. This wine primarily features Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and it's noted for being a particularly fine vintage. Definitely worth opening a bottle.
This wine makes its appearance in volume 1. It was tasted at a wine bar in Fujieda, and it was described as having the power and presence of a rock band like Queen. The experience was like a symphony of music and wine coming together.
Look at the color of this wine—it's got that deep, brick-red hue with great viscosity when you swirl it in the glass. Give it a sniff, and it's open and complex. You'll catch the rich aromas of blackberries and cassis, with a hint of something like tea leaves adding another layer.
Take a sip, and you'll notice a solid attack. The fruitiness is generous, with lively acidity that balances everything out. The tannins are dense, giving it a solid structure but also a touch of elegance. The finish is long, lingering beautifully on the palate. This is the kind of wine you might want to enjoy in a large glass, savoring it slowly.Read review - 9
PublishedOpus One 2000Opus One WineryServed at wine bar Monopole in a comparison with MontpératAwakening the Californian LegendOpus One is this amazing blend where Napa Valley meets the genius of Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild. The 2000 vintage is something special, a real treat after all these years of aging. With Cabernet Sauvignon taking the lead and a little help from Merlot and Cabernet Franc, you just know it's gonna be good.
Remember in 'The Drops of God' volume 1? It was at the Monopole wine bar, right there compared with Mont Perat. Such a cool moment—seeing how Opus One stood out in that scene.
Just look at the deep ruby hue in your glass. When you swirl it, you can see the legs forming, showing off its age. Take a sniff—you'll catch ripe cassis and blackberry, with a hint of spice. There's this underlying aroma of tea and dried herbs too. On the palate, those robust tannins wrap around your tongue, but they're smooth, not harsh. The acidity is lively, balancing out the fruit flavors perfectly.
And the finish? Oh, it lingers beautifully. You get this lovely vanilla and oak note that fades out like a gentle melody. For the best experience, serve it in a good glass at around 18°C. You won't regret it.Read review - 10
PublishedChâteau Léoville Las Cases 1983Château Léoville Las CasesA wine Issei tastes at homeA timeless landscape in a glassChâteau Léoville Las Cases, you know, it's one of those legendary estates in Bordeaux's Saint-Julien. They've got this blend mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon, and the 1983 vintage has really come into its own after so many years.
In "The Drops of God," volume 1, there's this scene where Shizuku Kanzaki is at home, tasting this wine. Just picture him, carefully observing and savoring it, really diving into the experience. It's fascinating to think about how he might have perceived this wine.
Pour this wine, and you’ll see a deep ruby color, with an edge that’s turning slightly orange—speaks of its age, doesn’t it? Bring it to your nose, and you’ll get a wave of rich cassis and black cherry aromas, almost like wandering through an old library. Take a sip, and those silky tannins just wrap around your tongue. The fruit flavors unfold gradually, bringing along hints of spice and cedar as time goes by.
The finish? It's incredibly long, gently wrapping you up like a silk scarf. The acidity is strong, yet it's got a roundness to it, making the whole experience feel beautifully balanced. This wine, after 43 years, is something you'd want to savor during a special moment.Read review - 11
PublishedChâteau Pichon Longueville Baron NVChâteau Pichon Longueville BaronA wine Shizuku narrows down from an aroma training kitThe Noble Strength of BordeauxChâteau Pichon Longueville Baron, ever heard of it? This beauty hails from Pauillac in Bordeaux, mainly made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It's a perfect blend of tradition and a bit of innovation, opening a bottle of this is always a bit of an adventure.
This wine makes its mark in the first volume of 'The Drops of God', where Shizuku uses a scent training kit to zero in on it. Remember how focused he was about picking up those complex aromas? It's a wine that really deserves that kind of attention.
Pour it into a glass and you'll see what I mean. The color—deep ruby with a good viscosity—catches your eye. Bring it up to your nose and boom, those cassis and black cherry aromas hit you first. There's a gentle vanilla sweetness in there too, with just a hint of black pepper spiciness adding a nice touch. Take a sip, and those robust tannins make their presence known, followed by a smooth, rich fruitiness that coats your tongue. The acidity's got a solid grip, keeping everything in balance.
And the finish? It's something else. Long-lasting, with an earthy, forest-like depth that makes you feel like you're in the middle of nature. If you open this, go for a larger glass to let it breathe and consider a bit of decanting for even more aroma magic.Read review - 12
PublishedChâteau Mouton Rothschild NVChâteau Mouton RothschildA wine Shizuku narrows down from an aroma training kitA symphony of elegance and complexityChâteau Mouton Rothschild, you might've heard about it. It's something special in Bordeaux, crafted mainly from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Opening a bottle of this is like diving into the rich traditions of Bordeaux, perfect for savoring special moments.
In the first volume of 'Drops of God', this wine makes an appearance as Shizuku identifies it during a scent training session. The way he deciphers the aroma is like a detective unravelling a mystery, really captivating stuff.
When you look at this wine, the deep ruby color catches your eye first. Tilt the glass and you can see its rich viscosity, indicating a full-bodied wine. The aroma is open, with prominent notes of blackcurrant and plum teasing your senses. There's also a hint of oak and subtle spices adding complexity.
Take a sip, and you’re greeted with a rich burst of fruitiness. The acidity is lively, and the tannins are dense, giving it a strong framework. The finish lingers long, with complex flavors unfolding in your mouth. It’s a wine that draws you into its depth with every sip.Read review - 13
PublishedVosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux 1999Henri JayerThe wine Miyabi brokeThe enigmatic allure of Pinot NoirHenri Jayer's Vosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux is really something special. It's made from 100% Pinot Noir from Burgundy, and this tiny vineyard he cultivated has become legendary among wine lovers. The 1999 vintage is particularly outstanding, and with 27 years of aging, it's just at its prime now.
Remember in Volume 1 of "Drops of God" when Miyabi accidentally broke this wine? That scene was so tense, right? Breaking a wine like this is a big deal, but in a way, it shows just how special it is.
Pouring this wine into a glass reveals a beautiful color—slightly orange on the rim, hinting at its 27 years of aging. The aromas are open, with sweet black cherry and raspberry notes wafting up. You'll also catch hints of tea and dried herbs in the bouquet.
Taking a sip, the velvety tannins are the first thing that stands out, spreading across your tongue like velvet, with a burst of fruit sweetness. The acidity is smooth, and the overall balance is truly remarkable. The finish is long, with lingering nuances of truffle and earthiness. This is what tasting the essence of Burgundy feels like.Read review - 14
PublishedRichebourg NVMéo-CamuzetA candidate proposed as a substitute for Clos ParantouxThe pinnacle of sensual delightThis Richebourg, crafted by Méo-Camuzet, is a standout Pinot Noir from Burgundy. They're known for their mastery with this grape, and this wine truly showcases their skill. Richebourg is renowned for its complexity and depth, setting it apart in the world of Burgundy wines.
In the first volume of 'The Drops of God', this wine makes an appearance as a candidate instead of Clos Parantoux. It's described with unique nuances, highlighting its special qualities.
When you pour it into a glass, you're greeted by a beautiful deep ruby color. The aroma is open and enticing, with rich black cherry and cassis notes, complemented by a hint of spice that catches your attention immediately. On the palate, the fruit richness spreads elegantly across. The acidity is lively, and the tannins are dense yet smooth, creating a perfect balance.
The finish is long, allowing you to savor it slowly. No need for decanting with this one, just enjoy it as it is. Using a large glass will help you appreciate its depth even more.Read review - 15
PublishedBourgogne 1999Méo-CamuzetA candidate proposed as a substitute for Clos ParantouxExperience the magic of BurgundyEver heard of Méo-Camuzet's 1999 Burgundy? It's 100% Pinot Noir from some of Burgundy's most storied vineyards. These guys have been keeping the tradition alive for ages. Opening a bottle like this means you're in for something truly special.
In 'Drops of God' Volume 1, this wine pops up as an alternative to Clos Parantoux. That scene really highlights its depth and character, fitting perfectly for those special, memorable moments. It's like they knew it had the chops to stand alongside some heavy hitters.
Look at that color—it's got this brick hue with a hint of orange on the rim, showing off its age beautifully. Get a whiff, and you'll catch ripe cherry and plum aromas mingling with hints of tea and dried herbs. Take a sip, and those silky tannins just glide over your tongue. The lively acidity adds a nice kick, pulling together the fruitiness and complexity in every sip.
The finish is long, with a gentle sweetness that lingers like a calm Burgundy sunset. You'd want to serve this in a larger glass at around 14–18°C to really savor those special moments. It's definitely a wine for those cherished occasions.Read review - 16
PublishedBourgogne Rouge 2001Emmanuel RougetA candidate proposed as a substitute for Clos ParantouxHarmony of elegance and depthEmmanuel Rouget's 2001 Bourgogne Rouge—it's pure Pinot Noir and it's got that special touch from his uncle, Henri Jayer. You know, his wines are always worth exploring, and this one is no exception. You just have to open it to see what the buzz is all about.
This wine pops up in the first volume of "Drops of God," where it's mentioned as a potential substitute for the legendary Cros Parantoux. I mean, if it's being compared to such a revered wine, it's got to be intriguing, right? Imagine the kind of flavors the characters were savoring in that scene.
Take a look at it in your glass—it's got this deep ruby color with a hint of orange at the edges, showing its age. When you give it a sniff, you'll catch the rich aromas of black cherry and raspberry mingled with violet flowers and a touch of spice. Let it sit a bit, and you'll notice this earthy, truffle-like complexity starting to emerge.
Now, take a sip. The fruitiness hits you first, followed by a lively acidity that keeps everything balanced. The tannins are velvety, wrapping around your palate gently. And the finish? It's long and layered, leaving you with a complex, satisfying aftertaste. I'd say let it breathe a little at room temperature, but skip the decanting—just enjoy it as it is.Read review - 17
PublishedBourgogne Rouge NVFaiveleyA candidate proposed as a substitute for Clos ParantouxDiscover the elegance and passion of BurgundyYou know, Faiveley's Bourgogne Rouge is perfect for Pinot Noir fans. It's got that classic Burgundy vibe with a contemporary twist, so there's always something new to discover. Faiveley, with their long history in Burgundy, really brings out the character of the region in their wines.
In "The Drops of God" Vol. 1, this wine was suggested as an alternative to Clos Parantoux. It's interesting to think about that scene while sipping this—makes the experience a bit more special, don't you think?
Pour some in your glass, and you'll see this vibrant ruby color. The aroma is open and lively, bursting with fresh strawberries and raspberries—like you're right in the middle of a berry patch. Take a sip, and you'll notice a rich fruitiness with a zesty, lively acidity that feels just right. The tannins are silky, smoothly settling on your palate.
The finish is rather long, letting the fruit flavors linger pleasantly. It's got that elegant, classic Burgundy finish and complexity. Try serving it around 15°C—not too chilled, to enjoy all its nuances better.Read review - 18
PublishedBourgogne Rouge 2002Jayer-GillesA candidate proposed as a substitute for Clos ParantouxA symphony of rich redJayer-Gilles' 2002 Bourgogne Rouge is a real gem for Pinot Noir lovers. It's crafted in Burgundy with all the heart and tradition you could ask for. This wine is all about showcasing the pure essence of Pinot Noir.
In the first volume of 'The Drops of God,' this wine steps in as a suggested alternative when the Clos Parantoux wasn't available. Remember how it was introduced? It kind of gives you an extra reason to open this bottle, doesn't it?
When you pour it into the glass, you'll notice a beautiful garnet hue with a slight brick tinge on the edges. The nose greets you with fresh raspberry notes, and then violets start to emerge, adding a floral touch. As it opens up, you get hints of a deep forest aroma, which makes it all the more intriguing.
On the palate, it's smooth and velvety, just gliding over your tongue. The acidity is lively and keeps the structure intact, while the tannins are velvety yet firm, providing a solid backbone. The fruit flavors weave together in harmony, and the finish is long and satisfying. To really enjoy this Burgundy, serve it at 14–16°C in a medium-sized glass.Read review - 19
PublishedBourgogne Rouge 1998Haegelen-JayerA candidate proposed as a substitute for Clos ParantouxExperience the allure of BurgundyHaegelen-Jayer's 1998 Bourgogne Rouge comes straight from Vosne-Romanée, right in the heart of Burgundy. It's all about Pinot Noir, capturing the essence of this famous region. With 28 years of aging, it's got all those layers waiting to be discovered.
In the first volume of 'Drops of God,' this wine steps in as a stand-in for the renowned Clos Parantoux. That scene really sets the stage for this wine's deep and layered character. When you pour it, just take a moment to admire that garnet hue with a hint of brick around the edges.
As you bring the glass closer, you'll notice these enticing black cherry notes mingling with a hint of tea. It's such a captivating aroma, you could get lost in it before even tasting. Once you sip it, those silky tannins wrap around your tongue. The acidity is lively, and the tannins have a velvety touch. There's a burst of fruitiness followed by a long, lingering finish that's just delightful. You should take your time with this one, maybe savor it with friends.
To really enjoy this wine, try serving it between 14 to 18°C in a slightly larger glass. No need for decanting; just let it open up naturally in the glass and enjoy the unfolding aromas.Read review - 20
PublishedBourgogne Rouge 2002Claude DugatA candidate proposed as a substitute for Clos ParantouxThe art of harmony in BurgundyClaude Dugat's wines are quite the hallmark of Burgundy, and this 2002 Bourgogne Rouge is a testament to his skill and passion. Made entirely from Pinot Noir, it encapsulates the tradition and innovation that Dugat's family has championed in the region. It's like he's poured his spirit into every bottle, you know?
This wine appears in Volume 1, where it's mentioned as an alternative to Clos Parantoux. That scene really highlighted the wine’s depth and complexity, fitting perfectly with the tension and anticipation of the moment. It was a choice that underscored the richness and the atmosphere of the setting.
Pour it into your glass, and you'll notice the brick color tinged with a hint of orange—a sign of its age. The aroma hits you with ripe cherries and blackcurrants, mingling with tea and underbrush notes that speak of time's passage. As you sip, the silky tannins glide smoothly, while the lively acidity keeps everything nicely structured.
The finish is long, leaving a subtle spice lingering at the end. It's elegant and offers a richness that makes opening this bottle such a treat. Serve it slightly cooler and let it breathe a bit, and you'll enjoy the full spectrum of its charm.Read review - 21
PublishedVosne-Romanée Les Jachées 2000Jean-Yves BizotA candidate proposed as a substitute for Clos ParantouxA symphony of rich fruit and delicate finishJean-Yves Bizot's Vosne-Romanée Les Jachées 2000 is a superb way to experience the charm of Burgundy's Pinot Noir. Bizot is known for his meticulous winemaking, capturing attention year after year. This 2000 vintage is particularly remarkable, offering a taste of Burgundy's rich nature.
In Volume 1, it's mentioned as a candidate to stand in for Clos Parantoux. That scene really highlights the wine's ability to make an impression in any setting. As you read on, the wine seems to come alive within the story, adding depth to every moment.
Take a look at this—it's got that beautiful brick red color with an orange-tinted rim. The aroma is open and inviting, with hints of violets and dried herbs. There's also a gentle, tea-like toastiness that tickles your nose. On the palate, it's all about those silky tannins spreading smoothly across your tongue. Then comes the flavor of ripe blueberries and black cherries, softly blending in.
The acidity is just perfect, keeping everything tight yet smooth. With its rich fruitiness and layers of complexity, the finish lingers beautifully. Every sip is a new discovery. I'd recommend serving this in a lighter glass at around 17°C to really let it shine.Read review - 22
PublishedBourgogne Rouge 2002Philippe Charlopin-ParizotA candidate proposed as a substitute for Clos ParantouxA sip crafted from Philippe Charlopin's passionPhilippe Charlopin-Parizot's 2002 Bourgogne Rouge is a must-try for any Burgundy lover. It's all Pinot Noir, so you're getting that true Burgundy elegance. You can tell from this wine how much Charlopin adored this grape back in the day.
This wine pops up in Volume 1 of 'The Drops of God' as a contender for Clos Parantoux. Remembering that scene, you can really see its potential. The choice in that moment highlights what this wine is capable of.
Pour a glass and you'll see this lovely garnet hue with a hint of brick around the edges. Bring it to your nose, and you'll be greeted by ripe berries and a delicate hint of violets, like you're strolling through a forest. There's also a touch of spice and vanilla from the oak, which adds depth.
Take a sip, and you'll notice how the silky tannins glide effortlessly. The acidity is lively and refreshing, perfectly balancing the fruit sweetness. The finish lingers with dark cherry and black plum flavors, inviting another sip. For the best experience, try it slightly chilled around 15°C.Read review - 23
PublishedVosne-Romanée Les Beaux Monts 1997Emmanuel RougetA Clos Parantoux substitute candidate suggested by FujiedaA symphony of deep red fruitsEmmanuel Rouget's Vosne-Romanée Les Beaux Monts is something special, especially coming from the celebrated vineyards of Burgundy. This 1997 vintage is 100% Pinot Noir, and Rouget, as the successor of Henri Jayer, brings a unique depth to his wines.
In "The Drops of God" Volume 1, this wine makes an appearance when Fujieda suggests it as an alternative to Cros Parantoux. That scene really captures the distinct allure and character this wine offers. If you remember that moment, it’s worth pouring yourself a glass and savoring it.
Take a look at this wine, with its deep ruby color shifting to a brick hue, showing its age gracefully. There's a hint of orange around the rim when you tilt the glass, which is just fascinating. On the nose, you get ripe raspberries and black cherries, with a floral touch reminiscent of violets. There’s also a hint of spice, making it complex yet approachable.
When you sip it, the attack is rich and full, but lively acidity keeps it from feeling too heavy. The tannins are silky, spreading gently across your palate. As it finishes, you catch whispers of vanilla and smoke, with a long-lasting finish. This wine is elegant with complexity, truly something to take your time with and enjoy.Read review - 24
PublishedRosso Miani NVMianiA wine Issei drinks with Maki at a hotel — Salome dancing sensuallyA passionate red from FriuliMiani's Rosso Miani is a renowned wine from Friuli, primarily made from Merlot. Opening this bottle is like inviting the spirit of nature and tradition they hold dear into your glass. You really get to experience the essence of Friuli and the allure of Merlot together.
In the first volume of 'The Drops of God', it's enjoyed by Shizuku and Maki at a hotel, where they compare its vibrant character to the seductive dance of Salome. That scene perfectly captures the wine's opulent and entrancing nature.
When you pour it into the glass, you see this deep ruby color that's so appealing. Take a sniff, and you'll catch ripe black cherries and plums with a backdrop of spicy herbs. It's full-bodied and powerful on the palate, yet the tannins are dense, melting into a silky smoothness.
The acidity is robust, and the fruitiness is just bursting all over. The finish is long, leaving a sense of joy dancing around your mouth. Try serving it slightly cooler and decant it before drinking to enhance its complexity and enjoy all the nuances Friuli has to offer.Read review - 25
PublishedVosne-Romanée 2001Gros Frère et SœurRobert’s wine dug up from the groundUnleashing the power from the earthSo, Gros Frère et Sœur, they're based in Burgundy, known for their Vosne-Romanée wines made from Pinot Noir. It's fascinating how this 2001 vintage has been aging for about 25 years in the bottle, don't you think? You just know it's going to be full of character.
Remember in the first volume of 'The Drops of God' where Robert digs up a bottle from the ground? That's this wine. That whole scene really captures the excitement of uncovering something aged and special, doesn't it? Just conjuring up what it must have tasted like makes you want to try it yourself.
When you pour it, you'll see this deep ruby hue with a slight orange tinge at the rim, showing its age. On the nose, you get this wave of black cherry and dried plum, with a hint of spice peeking through. There's also this earthy aroma, like opening an old book or stepping into a forest.
Take a sip, and you'll find the acidity is lively, with tannins that are dense but have mellowed over time. It's got a strong backbone but feels rounded now. The finish is long, leaving a soft oak whisper behind. It's a wine that really lets you feel the depth of Burgundy's soil. I'd suggest serving it slightly cooler and taking your time to enjoy it.Read review - 26
PublishedEchezeaux 2002Gros Frère et SœurRobert’s wine dug up from the groundA crimson temptation from the pinnacle of BurgundyHey, you should really try this 2002 Echezeaux from Gros Frère et Sœur. It's a Grand Cru Pinot Noir from Burgundy, and the 2002 vintage really stands out. After 24 years, you can imagine how it's evolved, right?
In the manga, there's a scene where Robert digs this wine out of the ground, it's in Volume 1. When I saw that, I was like, wow, this wine must mean a lot to him if he's willing to unearth it like that.
Pour it into a glass and that beautiful brick color with an orange tinge reveals itself. It's a clear sign of its age. The aroma is captivating, with deep notes of blueberry and black cherry, complemented by hints of dried herbs and tea. It's complex, and the scent just keeps deepening as you let it breathe.
Take a sip, and you'll be amazed by the silky tannins. It starts with a rich fruitiness and then transitions to a rounded acidity that ties everything together. The finish is long, leaving a warm, pleasant feeling that just lingers. This wine is elegant with a long finish—truly special. Serve it around 14–16°C for the best experience.Read review