2004 The Sticks and Stones Tempranillo Grenache Souzao
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Tasting notes
46% Tempranillo, 41% Grenache and 13% Sousão Good, sweet, round and lively – shown subsequently in Max Allen's alternative varieties tasting. The Tempranillo benefits form the spice of the other two varieties. Good, positive scent but a very tough, austere finish. It's not ready to drink yet though there is no shortage of interest. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Lots of acidity – very sucky-stoney. Green. (JR)
Made from Spanish and Portuguese varietals (Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Souzao), the inky/ruby/purple-hued 2004 The Sticks and Stones offers up aromas of graphite, blueberries, camphor, roasted meats, and smoked herbs. It is a rich, full-bodied, exotic red with a singular character that should prove to be relatively long-lived given its tannic structure. Consume it over the next 10-12 years. Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552
(a blend of tempranillo, grenache and souzao) Deep ruby. A complex bouquet of blackberry jam, candied licorice, cured tobacco, fudge and espresso. Very sweet and lush, with a confectionery tone to the dark berry flavors and a suave, velvety texture. Firms up on the finish but maintains impressive sweetness. This would compare nicely to most new-wave Spanish wines, but here the oak is more successfully integrated here than in many newfangled Iberian examples.