It was a curious sensation to pull the cork on the Solanera Vinas Viejas 2004 and have my awaiting nostrils greeted by - Nothing?
Seldom have I encountered a wine that managed to conceal its nose so thoroughly. It was an unfamiliar melange of Mediterranian grapes that were blended with some Cabernet. Yet, tasting the earthy non-tannic berry and olive overtones, it began to win me over. The body, while hardly syrupy, gave the subjective impression of fullness. I would attribute this to warm growing conditions and a lack of "excessive irrigation" that is so common a practice in this country.
After preparing one of my classic specialties, le boeuf haché a grillé avec de la sauce à île d'Avery the pact was sealed with a kiss. Some Manchego would have been excellent with the final glass, but I had a new wedge of Parmagiano Reggiano open and curiosity prevailed. I had always thought of this cheese as something to grate on top of a dish for happy occasions. But, to my delight I found that it married beautifully with the wine.
Definitely a keeper. If I am lucky and manage to scrape together a few more Shekels, I want more of this!
Godzilla