Rich straw color. Strong jasmine nose with oily butter, lemon curd, flinty mineral and toffee, and hints of toasted almonds and grapefruit peel. Medium body, way more acid than I expected, and a long finish thanks to the oak. The acid is tart and grippy on the palate and finish. Sadly, upon drinking, jasmine and lychee (very much like a Torrontés) bully the subtler fruit and oak notes that were peeking out on the nose. After a few sips all I experience is jasmine, oily butter, and raw acid. Hard to rate: there's lots to savor and contemplate in this wine, but it does not feel artfully crafted or tastefully balanced. I would buy again for $10-$12, especially to check out another vintage, but absolutely not for $15 or more.
Rich straw color. Strong jasmine nose with oily butter, lemon curd, flinty mineral and toffee, and hints of toasted almonds and grapefruit peel. Medium body, way more acid than I expected, and a long finish thanks to the oak. The acid is tart and grippy on the palate and finish. Sadly, upon drinking, jasmine and lychee (very much like a Torrontés) bully the subtler fruit and oak notes that were peeking out on the nose. After a few sips all I experience is jasmine, oily butter, and raw acid. Hard to rate: there's lots to savor and contemplate in this wine, but it does not feel artfully crafted or tastefully balanced. I would buy again for $10-$12, especially to check out another vintage, but absolutely not for $15 or more.
May 28th, 2016