2004 Alto Moncayo Aquilon
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Tasting notes
Dark and glossy crimson. Sophisticated nose with layers of mulberry fruit but masses of sweetness and alcohol though very fine tannins. Pretty chewy on the finish. Really the difference between this and a port is not great! I’m sure the Symingtons would itch to have their wines compared blind with this… It does seem a bit expensive. But there is lift on the end. I think the Alto Moncayo is probably the best value to me of these three. Actually of course its more direct cousin is a Châteauneuf from an extremely ripe vintage – those dry tannins... that even higher alcohol… (JR)
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Chris Ringland and Jorge Ordoñez joint effort with the local co-op. Very dark and opulent-looking. Sweet and luscious and more like a cherry liqueur than a wine – so sweet and powerful! Just too much alcohol for comfort. Shame because there has been enormous effort in this hot chocolate drink of a wine. (JR)
(reportedly made from garnacha vines between 80 and 92 years of age) Saturated purple. Incredibly seductive aromas of blackcurrant and blackberry liqueur, cherry cola, candied licorice, smoky bacon and exotic tobacco. Vibrant and fresh, with amazing depth and sweetness to its concentrated dark berry and cherry flavors. Almost viscous in texture but shows outstanding vivacity and lift on the palate, thanks to its supple tannins and gentle acids. Doesn't really finish so much as eventually dissolve. This received major oak treatment (100% new French and American) but it's all about pure, explosive, sweet fruit.
The 1,000 case luxury cuvee, the 2004 Aquilon, was fashioned from the winery’s oldest vines and best material. Revealing nearly off the chart ripeness, richness, and intensity, it will undoubtedly be controversial, separating traditionalists from more progressive tasters, but I loved it. It will be interesting to see how this tour de force in winemaking ages. It is the vino equivalent of a Hummer four-wheel drive vehicle.