I got straight to ordering some of this wine when I got back from Spain. I’d seen the 2005 a couple of times in Spain and had read great things at about the 2004 on El Mundo Vino, so I just had to have a look this vintage. Now there is lots of talk about which vintage is better, 2004 or 2005 (even 2006 is entering this argument now) and after talking to many of the wine makers and tasting the wines, I would advise that you need to look at each wine on it’s own merrits. They are both excellent vintages and it’s down your own judgement on which you prefer. In this case, it’s the 2004 for me.

It looks very concentrated in the glass, dark cherry red, and emits aromas of dark cherry, plum, espresso coffee, pencil shavings and earthy sage. Lush and luxurious in the mouth, big fluffy tannins that coat your mouth, but with the required acid to leave your palate fresh for the next slurp. The flavour is a big slap in the face, powerful but not over the top with dark cherry, plums, blueberry and freshly cut wood. There is a bit of oak impact here, but nothing over the top. Very primary in profile, it needs a good decant to get the most out of it at the moment. Otherwise, into the cellar for 5 year, then drink over the next 15. 95+ Pts.

Source: Toro Wines Price: $140 Closure: Conventional Cork

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