2009 Demetria Estate Cuvée Constantine

The Grenache-based 2009 Cuvee Constantine is very pretty in this vintage. Dark red cherries, flowers, mint, licorice and spices caress the palate as this silky, perfumed wine shows off its pedigree. A long, stylish finish rounds things out nicely. This is a terrific showing, although a bit less impressive overall than last year’s version. The Cuvee Constantine was aged in neutral 500- and 600-liter barrels. The blend is 67% Grenache, 24% Mourvedre and 9% Syrah. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. Demetria continues to make some of the most fascinating, compelling wines in California’s Central Coast. The wines are fermented with native yeasts, the malos are slow and natural, and the wines are bottled without fining or filtration. The 2009s are just a notch or two behind the superb 2008s, although unfortunately I did not have an opportunity to taste the 2009 Syrahs or the Grenache. Tel. (805) 686-2345