2003 Tres Ojos Old Vines Garnacha

[dananne]

Calatayud.

Always on the lookout for old viney stuff at bargain price points from Spain, we recently gave this one a test drive. Anne had most of it, save for a few sips I swiped from her, and it was consumed over two nights. No real notes on it except to say that it is not as good as Vina Alarba, an everyday value favorite for us, and it costs a few bucks more. Peppery strawberry/cherry fruit wrapped in tannins, and somewhat acidic and a touch hot, relatively speaking. Alc. 14.5%. Paid about $10.

[Drew]

Absolutely agree. My wine guy raved over this one so I buy several bottles. It's a somewhat non descript ok wine...the enjoyment wasn't there for me.

Drew

[Innkeeper]

Thanks for the reminder Dan; saw some Vina Alarba at the local NH state store today and picked up two for $7.99 each.

[Innkeeper]

Popped one of the '04 Vina Alarba Old Vines Grenache last night. Amazingly consistant with earlier vintages with the same red fruits and spices. Certainly one you can hang your hat on.

We matched it with broiled smoked beef sausage and salad with raspberry/hazelnut dressing. Magnifico!

[dananne]

Good to know, IK. The '03 is still the one lingering on the shelves down here, but as soon as I see some '04s (and/or run out of the '03), I'll be picking it up. Dandy stuff for the $, and I appreciate the consistency they are showing. It's nice to have a P/Q standby that you don't have to pay much attention to vintage.

[Innkeeper]

Had a half bottle of the '04 Vina Alarba tonight with a Greek Pizza. Very nice. Will have the other half tomorrow with grilled Franks.

[Innkeeper]

The second half was just fine with franks with macaroni salad and chopped spinach. This is a keeper with a wide variety of foods.