Medium ruby colored with slight bricking, some staining and a high viscosity (15% ABV). The nose of this Grenache/Syrah/Mourvedre blend has medium intensity aromas of black raspberry, vanilla, baked red apple, rhubarb crumble, blueberry pie, coffee, baking spice and garrigue. The palate is dry with medium (+) acidity, a full body and medium (-) tannins that are plush. The baked nature of the fruit comes out on the initial attack and then I start to get oak nuance by way of coffee, vanilla and baking spice followed by that earthy garrigue note and some meaty hints of game. The red and blue fruit are ripe and slightly desiccated but then I get a tart finish that is medium in length, intriguing. The high alcohol hits on the back end, I normally don’t sense it but this case is different. I like it all things considered- 92 points and for a wine that is already 12 years old, it’s just starting to show methinks. Drink till 2030 with stews, lighter grilled meats or even pasta. At $20, worth looking out for this 5 star effort. Salut….
Xavier Vignon – Barbare ‘Cuvee XL Premier’ 2012, Turkey
30 Saturday Mar 2024
Posted Wine reviews
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