2007-05-20 22:11 |
WA: The profound 2003 Santa Cruz (also 100% Grenache) is fashioned from an 80-100-year old vineyard planted in pure chalk at a lofty elevation of 715 meters (the northernmost and coolest sub-zone in Navarra). A gloriously pure bouquet of kirsch liqueur, raspberries, licorice, and pepper jumps from the glass of this amazingly full-bodied, rich, ripe 2003. With soft tannin, decent acidity, and a wonderful crispness despite its weighty concentration and headiness, this stunning Spanish Grenache should be enjoyed over the next 3-5 years. |
2007-05-20 22:12 |
IWC: Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Sep/Oct 05
($35; 100% old-vines garnacha planted on chalk at 800 meters) Deep ruby-red. Superripe but bright and pure aromas of black cherry, minerals and pepper. Sweet, thick and dense but also sappy and spicy, with sound acidity for the year. Creamy, alluring grenache, at once lush and solidly structured. Finishes with broad, fine tannins that reach the front teeth and suggestions of sexy French oak (40% new). This would outclass a lot of 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape bottlings. . (European Cellars, Charlotte, NC) 91 points |