The day had been a long one: a full day of work in Columbus, followed by a trip to Cincinnati for a conference. Getting checked into the hotel and settled, just in time to head back out for dinner.

The hotel was quite nice. Presently known as the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, the hotel is a national historic landmark. Opened in 1931 and outfitted in French Art Deco style, the hotel offers impressive ambiance that makes it the perfect location for an excellent fine dining restaurant, Orchids at Palm Court. In this setting, I was presented with a wine list and felt rather inclined to try for something French.

We settled on a Bordeaux, le Carillon De l'Angélus. The first thing that I noticed was its stunning appearance in the glass: a deep and dark red. On the nose were aromas of berries. Then came the taste, rich on the palate, more berries—my companion immediately identified blackberries. The finish was long and smooth.

Serious experts will not be terribly delighted with the 2001 vintage of any Right Bank Bordeaux, including this one, due to weather conditions that were less than optimal. But those that put the work into their vineyards and reduced their yields were able to produce good wine. Make no mistake: this was a good bottle and I wouldn't hesitate for a moment to enjoy another or to recommend it.

I thought that the wine was remarkably drinkable. While pairing very well with the meal (I had a filet mignon), it went quite well with nothing more than good company and conversation.