Calatayud

Bodegas San Alejandro Baltasar Garnacha Viñas Viejas 2004

Last year I had a look at the 2003 of this wine and made some comment about the 2004 being a bit of a step up.  Well it looks like I was right, there is a load of character and flavour here.  Imported wines really need to deliver in Australia due to the large taxes imposed on them.  I think you get a lot for your money with this wine.

I do prefer this style of garnarcha or grenache. Its very dry and full of concentrated flavours, while not jammy or over-ripe.  While we have some great old vine grenache based wines here in Aus, there are some real shockers that could learn a thing or two from these guys.

Deep red with a ruby edge.  Aromas of creme de cassis, earth, raspberry, sarsaparilla, cinnamon and coffee. Cool and clam in the mouth with some powdery, chalky tannins and zingy acid.  Plum, blueberries and raspberries on the palate with a hint of tar, minerals and herbs.  The finish is a bit short, but its not the end of the world.  89 Pts.

Source:  Toro/Woods Wines Price: Around $25 Closure: Conventional Cork