Ibanez Plevin Offerings @ Their Office

IPO (Ibanez Plevin Offerings) is a relatively new importer/distributor of small estate producers that have put together an exceptional portfolio. One that includes top importers like the established Kermit Lynch and rising star, Jon David Headrick.

This tasting was held at their office on the eighth floor of a vintage office building on 23rd St, close to the Garment District. I realized that a tasting in the office of a small company would likely be small, and it was, but I admire this company's wines and looked forward to sampling anything from them.

Of the ten producers featured and twenty-six wines poured, the highlight was the pair of Paul Bara Champagnes made from Grand Cru fruit from the village of Bouzy. These Kermit Lynch imports had been sold through distributor Winebow in the past, but apparently have been moved to IPO. It has been years since I last sampled these wines and didn't have any positive recollection. Today I did. The Reserve Brut offered a brilliant tang of stony mineral over crisp tree fruit, frothy mousse and balance texture unhindered by any wood influence. The rose had the same mineral snap only with an elegant hint of red fruit and spice.