From a mountainside, high elevation, old vine Grenache vineyard cropped at an amazing two tons of fruit per acre, the 2004 Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha was aged half in stainless steel and half in French oak for ten months. It is a lovely, expressive, deep ruby-tinged wine offering sweet aromas of kirsch liqueur, licorice, white pepper, and dusty, loamy characteristics. Full-bodied, supple textured, flashy, and flavorful, it is an unreal value that should be enjoyed over the next 12 months.

For several years running this Garnacha from the Borsao winery has been popular among those seeking size, balance and affordability. The 2004 is a bit oaky and modern, but with its bacon, leather and dark-berry aromas and flavors it’ll win you over. Lush enough but with good spine.——M.S.(4/1/2007)—— 89