So what to buy in 2003 ?
So what to buy in 2003 ?
Ver mensaje de rayolWhat do you plan to buy in 2003 ?
what regions wines did really well ? and which ones will age will (if any given the heat)
and considering that 2004 seems to be so good is it a year for
being more cautious.
Re: So what to buy in 2003 ?
Ver mensaje de rayolThis weekend I just completed a big tasting (about 80 wines total) of 2002s, ’03s, and ’04s. The latter two vintages were barrel samples. My general impression was that the somewhat maligned ’02 vintage compared very favorably to the ’03 vintage. While not the powerhouse wines of ’01, the ’02s that I sampled were typically made within their limits and thus were generally very balanced, open, and approachable.
The 2004 vintage generally will be awesome, particularly in Ribera del Duero and Toro. Watch in particular for the 2005 San Roman.
Back to your question: Among the ’03s I liked the best were Paixar from Bierzo and Pujanza Norte from Rioja. Now that I think about it, perhaps it is no coincidence that both these wines come from high-altitude vineyards. If I’m not mistaken, Pujanza has the distinction of having the highest altitude vineyards in all Rioja.
One of my favorite bargain wines from 2003 that I tasted this weekend is the Abadal Merlot (D.O. Pla de Bages) - floral and mineral, with load of black fruit, complex and balanced. I first tasted this wine while it was in process a year ago and knew it would be something special. I think it is just about to be released in the US for $15.
Re: So what to buy in 2003 ?
Ver mensaje de WaltZalenskiThanks for the reply Walt
I have read your post over on squires (I’m RayQ there-computer problems regestering here) Confused by your 05 San Roman reference...??
I have fears re heat in 03-though was hoping the cool nights in ribers del duero would alleviate any vine stress problems.
still I think I may hold off a little and save my powder for the 04’s.
Re: So what to buy in 2003 ?
Ver mensaje de rayolSorry but I’m a little bit busy nowadays…. Just some simple comments… 2003 is such a difficult year in a big number of Spanish regions.. remember that whas such an extremely hot year. In you look in the “offcial” wualifications, for instance in Rioja is just “Good” or in Ribera just “Very Good”… In this extrange vintages I tend to choose which wines to buy trusting more in the producers than in the best rated areas. So, for instance, I’ll buy Mogador, or Les Terrasses or Martinet in Priorat, Roda, Remirez de Ganuza, or Contino in Rioja, Aalto and Vega Sicilia in Ribera… and so one…
Hope this helps you … and sorry –again- for the delay :-(