Spain

Numanthia 2005

I drank this after getting home on Wednesday night, about 4 hours later than normal. A storm had taken out most of the public transport in Melbourne, as well as my fence! So something serious to drink was in order. I must say I prefer the style of the 05 to the 04, its more refined and less dark and brooding. The 05 is still very punchy, and by no means a light weight though. I quickly organised some for the cellar after tasting this one, I passed on the 04.

If you didn't know, the Eguren family sold this property to LMVH a couple of months ago. However, the current winemaking team are staying on for this year's vintage so we have a couple more vintages to look forward to under the current team. Not being the kind of people to kick back and blow the $25 million Euros on speedboats and parties with Paris Hilton , they've already got another Toro property in development and a couple of new ventures/improvements in their home base of Rioja. 

A beautiful nose of ceadery oak, mocha, violets and handful of berries: blueberry, blackberry dark cherry and black current. Very intense and complex in the mouth, well structured with powdery tannins, plenty of grip and excellent balance.  It almost feels light in on your tongue, but its flavour packed. Blackberry, dark cherry and mulberry fruit with added complexity from some mocha, earthy herbs, minerals and a touch of pepper. A luxurious finish. Outstanding as a drink now proposition, but will age gracefully until 2020. 96+ Pts.

Source: Toro/Woods Wines Price: Around $125  Closure: Conventional Cork 

Web:  www.eguren.com