| The 2005 Aquilon, all GARNACHA, has a splendid perfume of slate, violets, and cherry compote. There is beautiful integration of oak, tannin, and acidity, a smooth texture, layers of flavor, and exceptional length. There is enough structure to support 6-8 years of cellaring and it will provide pleasure through 2030. Vanilla, almonds and allspice all compete in the nose, but the taste is dry, soft and Scotch-like with a hint of orange. Very nice sipping rum. (97 Points - Robert Parker) Dark purple. The nose offers surreal, room-filling perfume of ripe raspberry, blackberry, incense, vanilla and dried flowers. Shockingly understated on the palate, with vibrant red berry, smoked meat and baking spice flavors, silky tannins and crisp mineral bite. There's no excess fat or sweetness here. Finishes with palate-staining intensity and superb focus. I'd love to see this lined up with some mega-bucks Napa cult wines costing twice the price of this admittedly luxe-priced bottle. If you play in this sandbox, you'll flip. (94 Points - Steven Tanzer) Dense and structured, yet still plush and inviting, this expressive red tastes like raspberry jam and dark chocolate, finishing with notes of tobacco, mineral and spices. A modern style, yet pure and clean, rich yet graceful and fresh. Drink now through 2015. 350 cases made. (94 Points - Wine Spectator) |