Two impressive, potentially ageworthy Garnacha (Grenache) wines from Navarra. They’re quite difficult to assess right now because they are just so tannic and primary, but I think they will be special with a decade in the cellar.
They’re from Domaines Lupier, which is the project of Enrique Basarte and Elisa Úcar whose mission has been to rescue plots of old vine Garnacha. They currently farm 27 of these plots, with the oldest dating back to 1903. Vinification is, as is common in Spain, quite reliant on oak – in this case French rather than American. But I reckon that in time the oak will integrate very well.
The wines are represented in the UK by FMV.
Domaines Lupier El Terroir 2008 Navarra, Spain
13.5% alcohol. Rich, ripe and concentrated with sweet aromas of black cherries, plums and spice. Structured, dense palate with good acidity, firm tannins and fresh, sweet berry fruits. Powerful, grippy and primary with massive potential for development. Hold for a few years before broaching. 92/100
Domaines Lupier La Dama 2008 Navarra, Spain
14% alcohol. Brooding black fruits nose. The palate is concentrated, fresh and taut with high acidity, firm grippy tannic structure and masses of blackberry and black cherry fruit. Some spice, too. So primary and youthful. This has lots of potential, but don’t begin to drink it for five years at least! 93/100
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1 Comment on Old vine Garnacha from Domaines Lupier, Navarra
I like the sound of the wine, but don’t you think the labels look a bit crap?