Volume 24

Vol. 24

Appearance order·21 winesPublished 21

  1. 1Les Ormes de Pez 2003PublishedLes Ormes de Pez 2003Château Les Ormes de PezA wine given to Shizuku by Cars, like a small fireplace. A warm flame flickers, with the crackling sound of wood. It naturally gathers family, embracing your back with warmth.A warm embrace in a bottleLet's talk about the 2003 Les Ormes de Pez from Château Les Ormes de Pez. This wine hails from the renowned Saint-Estèphe in Bordeaux, crafted primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Known for its robust structure and rich fruitiness, this vintage has matured beautifully over the years. In Volume 24, it's the wine that Karl shares with Shizuku. Imagine a small, cozy fireplace with logs crackling softly. The warmth naturally draws the family together, and as you sip this wine, you feel that same warmth embracing you. That's exactly how this wine was portrayed. In the glass, it shows a garnet hue with a hint of brick at the rim, indicating its maturity. The nose reveals deep aromas of blackberry and cassis, intertwined with dried herbs and a touch of tea leaf. On the palate, it greets you softly before unfolding into smooth acidity and velvety tannins that embrace the mouth. It has a strong structure, leaving a long-lasting, memorable finish. To fully enjoy this wine, consider decanting it for a while and using a medium-sized glass. Letting it breathe will enhance its aromas, making the waiting time part of the pleasure.Read review
  2. 2Château de Rouga Cuvée du Grand-Père 2003PublishedChâteau de Rouga Cuvée du Grand-Père 2003Château de RougëA Cru Artisan classified wine recommended at the marathon's eve. It's not overly dressed up, approachable, and never tiresome, like a favorite pair of worn-in jeans.Unpretentious and endlessly charmingChâteau de Rouga's Cuvée du Grand-Père is a heartwarming red wine that carries the tradition of Bordeaux. This wine primarily blends Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, creating a rich and full-bodied experience. The 2003 vintage was particularly blessed with warm weather, allowing the grapes to achieve exceptional ripeness. That's why this bottle is something special. In the manga, this wine makes its appearance in volume 24, introduced during a marathon's eve party as a Cru Artisan. It's not overly dressed up but rather has the charm of a favorite pair of worn-in jeans, approachable and endlessly drinkable. Even amidst a lively crowd, it offers a moment of personal indulgence. Pour a glass and you'll see a deep garnet color with soft brick hues around the edges, a testament to its age. On the nose, you'll first encounter rich aromas of ripe black cherries and dried plums, followed by hints of tea and dried herbs as it opens up. On the palate, there's a powerful yet well-integrated tannin structure that feels pleasingly smooth, with a long, complex finish. The acidity is smooth, with a beautifully balanced overall profile. For the best experience, consider decanting before enjoying.Read review
  3. 3Laura Cambon La Pelouse 2006PublishedLaura Cambon La Pelouse 2006Château Cambon la PelouseAt the marathon's eve, a wine like a girl who will grow into a lady. A 16-17 year old girl, still with traces of youth, dressed like a lady, nervously stepping into her first party venue. Such a wine.A step up the ladder to ladyhoodChâteau Cambon La Pelouse is a renowned winery in the Bordeaux region, crafting their classic Bordeaux blends primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The 2006 vintage was particularly favorable due to stable climate conditions, resulting in a wine that's both powerful and elegant. If you're looking for a rich Bordeaux experience, give this Laura Cambon La Pelouse a try. In volume 24 of 'Drops of God,' this wine makes an appearance at a marathon eve festival. It's likened to a 16 or 17-year-old girl dressed like a lady for her first party, still retaining some youthful innocence while hinting at future splendor. It's that imagery that captures the essence of this wine perfectly. Pour it into a glass, and you'll see a deep garnet color unfolding, much like a girl gracefully ascending the steps to adulthood. The aroma is rich with cassis and blackberry, intertwined with hints of cedar and tobacco. Given time, notes of tea and dried herbs also emerge, inviting you to savor its complexity. On the palate, the wine greets you with abundant fruitiness, followed by lively acidity that adds a refreshing structure. The tannins are dense yet refined, enveloping your tongue, and the finish is long and elegant. This wine truly embodies the elegance and complexity of a classic Bordeaux.Read review
  4. 4Château Dauphiné Rondillon 1989PublishedChâteau Dauphiné Rondillon 1989Château Dauphiné RondillonAt the marathon's eve, a wine once listed alongside "Château d'Yquem" at the Élysée Palace banquet. It has a peach aroma, reminiscent of the Peach Festival, a noble rot wine.A luscious moment beyond timeChâteau Dauphiné Rondillon's 1989 vintage is a noble rot wine from Bordeaux, France. Made from Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, this wine has taken on a new level of elegance with its aging. This wine appeared in volume 24 of 'Drops of God'. It was served at a state dinner at the Élysée Palace, where it shared the wine list with the famous Château d'Yquem. Its aroma of ripe peaches evokes the spirit of the Hinamatsuri festival. In the glass, it shimmers with a deep golden hue, and its viscosity is apparent when you swirl it. The aroma is open and offers a rich bouquet of ripe apricots and honey. On the palate, a robust sweetness unfolds, followed by a powerful acidity that balances the wine beautifully. The interplay of lightness and richness is exquisite, and the finish is long, revealing complex layers as time goes on. Overall, this noble rot wine is one to savor slowly. It's perfect when chilled as a dessert wine or as a luxurious companion for a special moment.Read review
  5. 5Château d'Yquem NVPublishedChâteau d'Yquem NVChâteau d'YquemIn the description of Château Dauphiné Rondillon, a Sauternes noble rot wine.A symphony of golden nectarChâteau d'Yquem is a white wine hailing from the Sauternes region of Bordeaux. Known for its exceptional quality across all vintages, it's a blend of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, renowned for its balance of concentrated fruitiness and acidity, all thanks to noble rot. In the manga 'Drops of God', it appears in volume 24, where it's discussed alongside Château Dauphiné-Rondillon. The presence of d'Yquem represents the depth and complexity typical of a Sauternes noble rot wine, truly the king of wines. When you pour it, you see this beautiful golden color, with high viscosity that clings to the glass. The aroma is open and inviting, with rich notes of apricot and white peach, intertwined with a honey-like sweetness that just makes you smile as you inhale. On the palate, there's a rich sweetness that fills your mouth, but it's perfectly balanced by a strong backbone of acidity, so it never feels heavy. The finish is long and complex, letting you savor every moment. It's best enjoyed at a cool 8–10°C in a small wine glass to capture its full essence.Read review
  6. 6Château Pichon Longueville Baron 2000PublishedChâteau Pichon Longueville Baron 2000Château Pichon Longueville BaronAt the Medoc Marathon water station, Shizuku drank a wine from the great vintage of 2000. A thoroughbred, with the image of a beautiful, well-toned racehorse.Experience the elegance of a racehorse in BordeauxChâteau Pichon Longueville Baron is one of the prestigious names in Bordeaux, known for crafting wines that epitomize power and elegance. Using primarily Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, along with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this estate creates wines that truly stand out. The 2000 vintage is particularly noteworthy, celebrated as a great year. In the world of wine, this vintage has achieved legendary status. In Volume 24 of the manga 'Drops of God,' Shizuku encounters this wine at a refreshment station during the Médoc Marathon. Just imagine sipping such a wine in the midst of a marathon—it's something special. Shizuku describes it as having the tight, refined beauty of a thoroughbred. It's not just another Bordeaux; there's an exceptional quality to it. Visually, it presents a deep garnet color, with a brick-like rim showing its age and maturity. After nearly 26 years, the aromas have evolved into something incredibly complex. Rich notes of cassis and blackberry are intertwined with cedar and tobacco nuances, bringing an elegant and sophisticated bouquet. On the palate, the wine offers a lush fruitiness at first, followed by a lively acidity that gives it structure and freshness. The tannins are velvety, creating a harmonious balance across the palate. The finish is long, allowing you to savor its essence well after you've finished drinking. I recommend decanting it and enjoying it in a larger glass to fully appreciate its potential.Read review
  7. 7Château Léoville Las Cases 2004PublishedChâteau Léoville Las Cases 2004Château Léoville Las CasesAt the Medoc Marathon water station, Shizuku drank a wine like a young hawk soaring in the sky, proudly circling above the forest.A proud young hawk surveying the forestChâteau Léoville Las Cases 2004 is a testament to the power and elegance of this prestigious Bordeaux estate. Known for its expressive Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend, it encapsulates the essence of the Médoc terroir. When you open this bottle, you're greeted by the spirit of a historic vineyard. In 'The Drops of God' Volume 24, this wine makes a memorable appearance during the Médoc Marathon, where Shizuku takes a sip and is captivated by its depth. Like a young hawk soaring the skies, surveying the vast forest below, this wine exudes a proud and majestic presence. Pouring it into a glass, you see the deep garnet hue typical of a Bordeaux red from 2004. The aroma bursts with youthful cassis and black cherry, followed by hints of forest floor and cedar. On the palate, it starts with a rich fruitiness, balanced by a lively acidity that tightens the overall structure. The velvety tannins gracefully coat the tongue, leading to a subtle earthy finish. This bottle is a harmonious blend of power and elegance, a true representation of Bordeaux's allure. For the best experience, consider decanting it and serving at around 18°C to fully appreciate its complex aromas and flavors.Read review
  8. 8Clos du Marquis 2004PublishedClos du Marquis 2004Château Léoville Las CasesAt the Medoc Marathon water station, Shizuku drank a wine, the second of Château Léoville Las Cases, with potential far exceeding typical classified wines. Made from grapes grown in designated vineyards outside Léoville Las Cases. Like a marimba played on an outdoor stage in a park, it brings joy just by drinking it. Its sweetness gently envelops, lifting gloomy spirits.A sip to brighten your dayClos du Marquis is the second wine of Château Léoville Las Cases, but don't underestimate it—this wine can outperform many classified Medoc wines, you know. Made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Merlot, this blend truly showcases the craftsmanship of its makers, benefiting from Bordeaux's favorable climate. You'll remember this wine from 'The Drops of God,' volume 24, where Shizuku sips it at a Medoc Marathon drink station. As described, the marimba played on an outdoor stage, and the wine lifted his spirits, like the sun breaking through clouds. He found its gentle sweetness enveloped him, clearing away the gloom. In the glass, it shows a deep garnet hue with hints of brick at the rim. The aroma is open, rich with blackberries and cassis, layered with cedar and dried herbs, giving it a complex character. On the palate, it unfolds with lush fruit flavors, strong acidity, and velvety tannins, all in wonderful balance. The finish is long, with the luscious fruit notes lingering beautifully, making each sip a new discovery. This wine combines dense flavors with elegance, perfect for enjoying slowly on a special occasion.Read review
  9. 9Château Beychevelle 1996PublishedChâteau Beychevelle 1996Château BeychevelleDuring the Medoc Marathon, they visited a château, said to be the most beautiful in Bordeaux. It has rough tannins like Darjeeling and a hint of Indian spices, like the clipper ship Cutty Sark racing over waves to deliver tea from Asia to England.The graceful clipper of BordeauxChâteau Beychevelle's 1996 vintage is a charming red from the esteemed estate in Saint-Julien, Bordeaux. Made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this wine carries the legacy of French tradition. This particular vintage is celebrated for its outstanding balance and complexity, earning high praise from wine enthusiasts. In 'Drops of God' volume 24, this wine makes its appearance during a scene set amidst the Médoc Marathon. The château, known as one of Bordeaux's most beautiful, is visited, and the wine is described as having tannins reminiscent of Darjeeling tea with a hint of Indian spice. It's likened to a swift clipper ship sailing across the waters from Asia to England, exuding both strength and elegance. Upon examining its color, you notice the garnet hue, a testament to nearly 30 years of aging. The aroma is open, with notes of ripe cassis and black cherry, layered with nuances of tea and undergrowth. On the palate, it has a rich attack, with robust acidity and velvety tannins. The balance is excellent, and the finish is long, offering something new with each sip. To fully appreciate this wine, consider decanting it to bring out its full-bodied and complex flavors. Every swirl of the glass evokes a sense of Bordeaux's history and terroir, making it a memorable experience.Read review
  10. 10Château Gruaud Larose 2000PublishedChâteau Gruaud Larose 2000Château Gruaud LaroseDuring the Medoc Marathon, they visited a château, a second growth pride of Saint-Julien. It's vibrant and rich, but contrary to its feminine label image, it's a strong, muscular wine. "Château Gruaud Larose 2000" is an arch welcoming, celebrating, and healing warriors.A harmonious blend of power and eleganceChâteau Gruaud Larose is a name that resonates with Bordeaux enthusiasts. Known as a Second Growth from Saint-Julien, this estate has long been celebrated for its powerful yet elegant wines. The 2000 vintage, a standout year, primarily features Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, benefiting from an exceptional growing season. Each bottle promises a unique revelation every time you uncork it. You'll find this wine making an appearance in volume 24 during the Médoc Marathon. Amidst the running, they stop by the château to savor this wine. It's described as both opulent and robust, contrasting its label's feminine image with a muscular structure, welcoming warriors like a triumphal arch. Upon pouring, the wine greets you with a deep garnet hue and a brick-like rim, a testament to its 26 years of aging. The nose is complex, offering layers of blackberry and cassis intermingled with dried herbs and sous-bois. On the palate, it is rich, with a robust acidity and dense tannins providing a solid backbone. The long finish allows you to keep discovering new layers with each sip. This wine is best enjoyed with patience. Use a large glass and give it some time to breathe, and you'll find its allure unfolds even more.Read review
  11. 11Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste 1999PublishedChâteau Grand-Puy-Lacoste 1999Château Grand-Puy-LacosteDuring the Medoc Marathon, they drank a wine from a top-tier fifth growth château. It has a modest aroma, but the wine's body is very solid, like a well-dressed British gentleman with a mustache.A wine with the grace of an English gentlemanChâteau Grand-Puy-Lacoste is a prestigious estate located in the Pauillac region of Bordeaux, known for its powerful yet elegant wines. The 1999 vintage of this red blend, primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, is a testament to its capable aging potential. Despite its classification as a Fifth Growth, this château is often regarded among the best of its class. In the 24th volume, this wine appears during a break in the Médoc Marathon, offering a moment of respite to the weary runners. Its subtle aroma contrasts with the solid body it presents in the mouth, much like the poised demeanor of an English gentleman with a distinguished mustache. The wine pours a deep garnet with a hint of orange at the rim, showing its age. The nose opens with notes of tea leaves, dried herbs, and a touch of cedar. On the palate, ripe blackcurrant and black cherry flavors come through with a smooth acidity. The tannins are velvety, providing a harmonious balance, and the finish is moderately long. This wine is both elegant and complex, with a finish that invites you to savor it longer. I recommend serving it in a large glass to fully appreciate its aromas.Read review
  12. 12Château Pontet-Canet 2000PublishedChâteau Pontet-Canet 2000Château Pontet-CanetDuring the Medoc Marathon, they drank a wine that doesn't have an overly strong aroma, but it's not cloying or artificial, with a refined and elegant scent. It's more masculine than a real man, yet expresses the delicacy and kindness of a woman, like the all-female Takarazuka stage.The elegance of strengthHey, you should try this 2000 Château Pontet-Canet. It’s from one of those legendary Bordeaux estates, showcasing primarily Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. This particular bottle boasts an elegance that’s unique to Bordeaux, reflecting its rich history and meticulous crafting. In 'The Drops of God' Volume 24, this wine made a memorable appearance during the Médoc Marathon. Its aroma isn't overly flamboyant, yet it leaves a lasting impression, much like watching a Takarazuka performance—where masculine strength and feminine delicacy intertwine beautifully. Pour it into a glass and you’ll notice its deep garnet hue. The nose is subtle but unfolds slowly with hints of cassis and blackberry, creating a comforting backdrop. On the palate, you get a soft fruitiness first, followed by a lively acidity that’s just right. The tannins are velvety, and the finish lingers long, making you want to sip it again. That balance, you know, that's what makes it so irresistible. Serve it slightly below room temperature in a medium-sized glass to savor its depth. It’s a wine that invites you to take your time with it.Read review
  13. 13Carruades de Lafite 2005PublishedCarruades de Lafite 2005Château Lafite RothschildDuring the Medoc Marathon, they drank a wine with a complex mineral scale that gently spreads on both sides, lingering as an aftertaste. It slowly and elegantly unfolds on the tongue, full of noble sweetness without any vanilla-like persistence. It evokes the graceful castle from Cinderella's tale where the prince and Cinderella danced, forgetting the passage of time.Elegance meets complexityCarruades de Lafite is the second wine of Château Lafite Rothschild, coming from the renowned Pauillac region in Bordeaux. It's primarily a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The 2005 vintage was an exceptional year, promising depth and richness in every sip. This wine makes an appearance in volume 24 of 'Drops of God.' It was tasted during the Médoc marathon, described as having an elegance reminiscent of Cinderella's castle—graceful and noble. The expansive mineral quality lingers on the palate, creating a lasting finish. In the glass, it shows a deep ruby color. The aroma is complex, with prominent notes of blackberry and cassis, accompanied by hints of cedar and cigar box. On the palate, the wine reveals a lush fruitiness followed by firm, lively acidity, and the tannins are silky smooth. The finish is long and intricate, leaving you yearning for another sip. This wine is elegant and full-bodied, best enjoyed in a large glass at around 18°C. It allows you to savor its full potential, embracing both its strength and finesse.Read review
  14. 14Château Haut-Marbuzet 2003PublishedChâteau Haut-Marbuzet 2003Château Haut-MarbuzetDuring the Medoc Marathon, they drank a wine from one of the oldest châteaux ranked as Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel. It's soft and gentle, yet supports the body like a large, comfortable sofa.A cozy embrace in a glassChâteau Haut-Marbuzet is one of the oldest and most esteemed estates in Médoc, known for its exceptional Cru Bourgeois status. The 2003 vintage, in particular, comes from a notably warm year, leading to grapes that reached ideal ripeness. The blend predominantly features Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, giving it both structure and elegance. In Volume 24, this wine appears during the Médoc Marathon. It's described as akin to sinking into a large, comfortable sofa, offering a gentle embrace while maintaining a solid presence. This imagery perfectly captures the wine's dual nature of softness and strength. When you pour it, you'll see a deep garnet hue, hinting at its maturity. The nose is rich with ripe blackberry and cassis, intertwined with cedarwood and tobacco notes. On the palate, the wine reveals a lush fruitiness, complemented by smooth, gentle acidity. The tannins are velvety, providing a dense yet refined texture, and the finish is long, revealing layers of complexity. It's a wine to be savored slowly, maybe even decanted to let it fully open up. Give it a try!Read review
  15. 15Château Tronquoy-Lalande 2005PublishedChâteau Tronquoy-Lalande 2005Château Tronquoy-LalandeDuring the Medoc Marathon, they drank a wine from a château upgraded from Bourgeois to Cru Bourgeois Supérieur in the 2003 classification review. It's like Adonis, the beautiful youth loved by Aphrodite in Greek mythology. The delicate and ephemeral nature of anemone flowers, masculine yet gently smiling and reaching out, reminiscent of Château Tronquoy Lalande 2005.A sip as captivating as AdonisChâteau Tronquoy-Lalande is one of those gems from the Médoc region in Bordeaux, you know? It's mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and with the 2003 classification revision, it got elevated to Cru Bourgeois Supérieur. What this means is you're dealing with a wine of reliable quality—something you'd want to pop open on a special occasion. In Volume 24 of 'Drops of God', this wine makes an appearance during the Médoc Marathon. It's compared to Adonis, the symbol of beauty in Greek mythology. This wine has that mix of strength and tenderness, almost like a gentle smile with a powerful presence. It has the ephemeral beauty of an anemone flower, yet the masculine charm that draws you in. Pouring it into a glass, you see a striking garnet hue. The nose is all about deep aromas of blackberries and cassis, along with hints of cedar and dried herbs. On the palate, the silky tannins spread gently, showcasing the rich taste of ripe fruit. The acidity is vibrant, creating a well-balanced experience. And the finish? It lingers on, keeping you engaged until the very end.Read review
  16. 16Château Montrose 1997PublishedChâteau Montrose 1997Château MontroseDuring the Medoc Marathon, Shizuku drank a wine while reminiscing about Yutaka Kanzaki. The faint warmth of evening and the grassy warmth of the wind gently caress the cheeks, with a view of rose-colored hills glowing in the western sun.The timeless depth of BordeauxChâteau Montrose is one of the esteemed estates located in the Saint-Estèphe appellation of Bordeaux. Known for its powerful yet elegant wines, it's primarily crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The 1997 vintage reflects the subtleties of that year's climate, making it a perfect choice if you're looking to experience the essence of Bordeaux. In Volume 24, Shizuku tastes this wine during the Médoc Marathon. As the evening sun casts its rosy glow on the hills and a gentle breeze caresses his cheeks, Shizuku reminisces about his father, Yutaka. It's a moment where he truly feels the depth of the wine amidst the beauty of nature. Pouring it into the glass, you'll notice a deep garnet color with a hint of orange at the rim. The aroma is open, with notes of ripe black cherry and cassis. With some time in the glass, nuances of tea and sous-bois emerge. On the palate, it reveals a rich and round fruitiness, with lively acidity that keeps everything in balance. The tannins are supple and silky, providing a pleasant texture. The finish is long and complex, leaving a lasting impression. This wine combines elegance with strength, embodying the tradition of Bordeaux. When opening, it's best to decant it a bit to let the aromas and flavors fully develop. Try it, and you'll see what I mean.Read review
  17. 17Château La Lande 2005PublishedChâteau La Lande 2005シャトー・ラ・ランドAfter the Medoc Marathon, Cars introduced Shizuku to a value Bordeaux, available for around 1000 yen.Affordable elegance from BordeauxChâteau La Lande is a red wine from the Bordeaux region, crafted with a blend primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The 2005 vintage brings out the essence of what Bordeaux wines can offer, yet it remains an affordable choice for those wanting to explore the region's wines without breaking the bank. It's a perfect pick for when you're in the mood for something classic and French. In the manga 'Drops of God', this wine makes an appearance in Volume 24. After the Médoc Marathon, Karl introduces it to Shizuku as a value Bordeaux, emphasizing that despite its accessible price, it carries the dignity and character typical of Bordeaux wines. The wine pours a deep garnet, with a hint of brick at the rim, indicating some age. On the nose, it's open and expressive, with aromas of cassis and black cherry. There's also a hint of undergrowth and dried herbs. On the palate, it delivers rich fruit flavors, with smooth tannins and a well-integrated acidity that makes it quite balanced. The finish is moderately long, providing a satisfying experience. For the best experience, try decanting it first to really unlock those aromas. It's perfect for a relaxing evening, allowing you to savor each moment as the wine unfolds.Read review
  18. 18Château Haut-Meneau 2005PublishedChâteau Haut-Meneau 2005シャトー・オー・ムノーAfter the Medoc Marathon, Cars introduced Shizuku to a value Bordeaux, available for about 2000 yen.Discover the hidden gem of Bordeaux!Château Haut-Meneau from the 2005 vintage is a captivating red wine centered on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, embodying the essence of Bordeaux. This particular vintage has matured nicely, offering a taste of the very soul of Bordeaux. While Bordeaux wines often come with a hefty price tag, this bottle is refreshingly approachable in price, without compromising on quality—a delightful surprise for any wine lover. In Volume 24 of 'Drops of God,' after the Medoc Marathon, Kars introduces this wine to Shizuku as a value Bordeaux one can buy for about 2000 yen. It's literally like saying, "If you want to enjoy Bordeaux easily, this is the one!" I can see why Kars made that choice. Pour it into a glass, and you’re greeted with a deep garnet hue, truly pleasing to the eye. The aroma is open, dominated by black cherry and cassis, with nuances of dried herbs and cedar that add layers of complexity. Once on the palate, the fruitiness is rounded and lush, accompanied by a smooth and gentle acidity. The tannins are dense and firm, providing a robust character. The finish is somewhat long, leaving you with a satisfying sip. This wine benefits from decanting, which can bring out even more depth. It pairs excellently with red meat dishes, making it a perfect choice for a special dinner.Read review
  19. 19Château Haut-Mounau 2004PublishedChâteau Haut-Mounau 2004シャトー・オー・ムノーAfter the Medoc Marathon, Cars introduced Shizuku to a value Bordeaux, with the 2004 vintage winning a gold medal at the Belgian world competition.A Bordeaux that sings valueChâteau Haut-Mounau is this gem of a Bordeaux red wine, particularly the 2004 vintage that's worth cracking open. It's mainly crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, giving it that classic Bordeaux complexity and elegance. Bordeaux reds are known for their solid structure and ability to age gracefully, and the 2004 is no exception—you can feel its potential. In 'The Drops of God', volume 24, this wine makes a memorable appearance when it's introduced to Shizuku by Karl after the Médoc Marathon. This wine was highlighted as a "value Bordeaux" and even snagged a gold medal at a world competition in Belgium. It's the kind of special wine that's definitely worth trying. Pour it into a glass, and you're greeted by a deep garnet color with a rim that's taking on a brick-like hue, showing its age. The aroma is open, with blackberries and cassis taking the lead. Then, you pick up dark chocolate, spices, and a hint of aged tobacco. On the palate, it's smooth on the attack, with silky acidity. The tannins are velvety, making it a pleasure in the mouth. The finish is somewhat long, with layers of complexity building up. I bet it would be even more delightful after decanting. Give it a try!Read review
  20. 20Château Bellevue Médoc Cuvée Clos Bellevue 2006PublishedChâteau Bellevue Médoc Cuvée Clos Bellevue 2006シャトー・ベルヴュー・メドック・キュベ・クロ・ベルヴューAmong the value Bordeaux wines introduced by Cars to Shizuku, this is Shizuku's top pick. A wine like an antique lamp by Émile Gallé.A hidden gem of Bordeaux, illuminated like an antique lampYou know, the Château Bellevue Médoc Cuvée Clos Bellevue is one of those hidden treasures from Bordeaux. The 2006 vintage mainly features Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, showcasing the classic Médoc balance of power and elegance. In the 24th volume of 'Drops of God', Cars introduced this as one of the value Bordeaux wines to Shizuku. Particularly, Shizuku had a special fondness for this one, comparing it to an antique Emile Gallé lamp, noted for its beauty and unique atmosphere. Pour it into a glass, and you'll notice the deep garnet hue with a slightly orange rim that hints at its maturity. The aroma is open and inviting, with ripe cassis, blackberry, and elegant notes of dried herbs. There's also this irresistible hint of aged tea and undergrowth, thanks to the years of aging. On the palate, it starts smooth, with a soft fruitiness that unfolds gently. The acidity is mellow and smooth, and the tannins feel velvety. The finish is somewhat long, with a complex array of flavors lingering. This wine truly embodies the elegant and structured charm of a fine Bordeaux.Read review
  21. 21Château Haut-Brion 1983PublishedChâteau Haut-Brion 1983Château Haut-BrionA wine drunk by the négociant Hayama.Taste the depths of BordeauxChâteau Haut-Brion is a historic winery located in the Graves region of Bordeaux, renowned for its blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The 1983 vintage we're looking at today has been aged for over 40 years, offering a profound depth that you can truly savor. This wine makes its appearance in volume 24 of 'Drops of God', where it is consumed by the negociant Hayama. His appreciation for the wine's value is palpable, and as a reader, you find yourself wanting to imagine tasting it alongside him. When you tilt the glass, you'll notice a mature brick-red hue with an orange-tinted rim. The aroma is open, revealing layers of black currant, dried plum, and hints of tobacco and cedar—like stepping into an old library. On the palate, it offers rich and rounded fruit flavors, with smooth and integrated acidity. The tannins are velvety, and the finish is impressively long. This 1983 vintage is elegant and complex, with a long-lasting finish that's truly captivating. When you drink it, try using a larger glass to fully appreciate the aroma.Read review