Thursday, August 7, 2008

Achaval-Ferrer "Quimera" Mendoza 2005

Hazy purple/red.

Very attractive nose - smoky black fruit, licorice, clay/earth.

Round entry immediately challenged by strong acidity and moderate tannin. Tight mid-palate and finishing structure restricts, but does not kill flavor flow. Front teeth chew. Very late iron note. This needs some bottle time, say 3-4 years, and should drink well for years after that.

Stupid deal.

$27 37% Malbec, 28% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc