2003 - Almaviva, Rothschild/Concha Y Toro

"The 2003 Almaviva is a real blockbuster, powerhouse vintage for this estate. With an inky blue/purple color, a beautiful nose of camphor, charcoal, blueberry, blackberry, and some spicy but subtle new oak, the wine is quite full-bodied, powerful, rich, but with silky tannins and loads of glycerin. This could turn out to be one of the all-time great wines released by this partnership and should continue to drink well for another two decades. (Note: The 2003 was tasted and reviewed by Robert Parker.)"

"Quite ripe, with braised fig, stewed plum, black currant paste and cherry preserve notes backed by roasted coffee and bacon notes. A tarry edge drives through the very lush finish. Shows more raw power than freshness, but still quite packed and in need of more unwinding. Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmen_re and Cabernet Franc.--Non-blind Vi_a Almaviva vertical (January 2011). Drink now through 2016. 10,000 cases made. _JM"