2005 Finca Allende Aurus
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Tasting notes
The 2005 Aurus was rated highly by my predecessor, although contrasted directly against the 2004, I feel that the previous vintage has the upper hand. It has an expressive nose with soft earthy red fruit, a touch of leather, mint and a bit of sage. The palate is medium-bodied with supple, leathery red fruit and crisp acidity, although it lacks precision on the powerful, perhaps over-powering, spicy finish. It is a little unruly compared to the stentorian 2004. Drink now-2019. Commencing with the Allende Blanc, I was impressed by how well this ages. Predominantly Viura with a higher percentage of Malvasia in older vintages, it develops a fine waxy texture and almost dried Barsac-like personality.
Critic scores
Neal Martin
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Very dark. Crimson. Sweet and flattering and lovely freshness on the finish. Really racy, and obviously rioja! (JR)
85% Tempranillo, 15% Graciano. Initially a little spirity on the nose. Much cooler and fresher on the palate than the Calvario 2005 tasted the same day – fresh and silky. (JH)
(85% tempranillo and 15% graciano) Glass-staining purple. Youthfully backward nose displays inky dark berry and plum aromas, along with licorice, espresso and dark chocolate. Then shockingly fresh and precise on the palate, offering sweet black raspberry and blueberry flavors, with powerful tannins adding structure. Coats the palate and reaches every nook and cranny of the mouth, gaining spice and cracked pepper nuances with air. As powerful as this wine is, there's an uncanny weightlessness to it that is intriguing. Finishes clean and long, with lingering spiciness.