2005 - Artadi Pagos Viejos, Rioja

The 2005 Pagos Viejos is already in bottle but has not been released. It is just slightly more muted but lovely nonetheless. Already complex both aromatically and on the palate, it has superb materials while appearing to be more structured than the 2004. Purchasers will need to be a bit more patient with this 2005 and should consider drinking the 2005 Vinas de Gain in the interim. Kudos to Bodegas Artadi for this tour de force! Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565

Ruby-red. Smoky raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by minerals, lavender and rooty sassafras. Suave red and dark berry flavors are complicated and deepened by exotic spicecake and sweet licorice. Impressively integrated tannins add gentle support. Pulls off the trick of outstanding concentration with finesse and finishes with superb precision and length. While still young, this is lovely today.