2003 Almaviva
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Tasting notes
The 2003 Almaviva reflects its era, beginning with a subdued, somewhat fatigued nose marked by woody remnants of new oak, dried dark fruits and a hint of alcohol. Soft and creamy on the palate, it concludes with a grainy, extracted tannin structure. Within the context of this vertical, it was quite educational, highlighting the significant advancements made at Almaviva over the next two decades in shifting the style toward more contemporary values of balance and vibrancy despite the consistently luxurious presentation.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jay S Miller, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Fully resolved tannins. Round and sweet and reasonably interesting. Excellent balance. Much more evolved than the 2003 from co-owner Ch Mouton Rothschild would be but there are tannins still – just not that intense fruit concentration.but it's great fun to drink now. (JR)
Cabernet Sauvignon 73%, Carmenère 24%, Cabernet Franc 3%. Dark crimson. Intense nose and a return of some Bordeaux dry character. Sweet start that is then reined in by savoury tannins and a very convincing structure. Still extremely young but the alcohol is well contained. This should drink well over a long period. (JR)
Arguably Chile's finest wine, a joint venture between Mouton-Rothschilds and Concha y Toro. Beautifully made, combining the ripeness of Puento Alto's famous Cabernet fruit with a lightness of touch and real French savour. Extremely more-ish. Unspittable even in this less than perfect vintage. Already giving pleasure but should continue to do so for the next five years at least. This Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, Cabernet Franc blend is deep crimson with some development already. Very slightly burnt/brulée edge on the nose but definitely in French not California or Chilean tradition (as the French back label insists). Round and opulent on the front palate but it's all drawn together on the finish. Very impressive for this vintage. A little red fruit brulée on the finish but already a delicious drink. Not one of the longest or most tannic Almavivas but a very good effort. (Tasted alongside Shafer Hillside Select it was defiantly French.) (JR)
About the producer
Almaviva is a collaboration between two giants in the world of wine – Bordeaux’s Ch. Mouton Rothschild and Concha y Toro.