2003 Pesus

Deep red. Explosively rich bouquet of blackcurrant, boysenberry, cherry liqueur, smoked meat and licorice. Deep, inky and brooding, the dark fruit flavors showing porty depth and richness but given lift and precision by a captivating mineral quality. The endless finish features silky tannins and compelling sweetness. A remarkable wine recommended to anyone who can find and afford it.

The 2003 Pesus comes from a small parcel of 82-year-old Tempranillo with small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot as part of the field blend. Yields were a microscopic 7-9 hectoliters per hectare. After fermentation in a special stainless steel tank, the wine was transferred into new French oak. It was racked further into new oak three times and aged for a total of 24 months in the oak. This 100-case cuvee is surely one of Spain’s greatest wines. Nearly black in color, with enticing aromas of black cherries, cassis, spice, and licorice, on the palate there is amazing concentration, full body, and layer upon layer of fruit. The tannins are nearly covered as this wine is virtually seamless. Give it 4-6 years of additional cellaring and drink it for the following 20 years. Jay Miller, Wine Advocate # 169 Feb 2007