Gracia 2010 (750ML)

93 VM / 92 WA / 16 JR

(15% alcohol): Bright full medium ruby. Superripe aromas of blackberry, mocha, minerals, licorice and smoked duck. Superconcentrated and powerful, with huge density and chewiness to the penetrating flavors of black raspberry, blueberry, bitter chocolate and smoky oak. This wine's chewy minerality gives it real eclat. Most impressive today on the very long, building finish, which saturates the mouth with big but sweet tannins and dark fruits. A classic vintage for Michel Gracia's tiny boutique wine. - Stephen Tanzer, Vinous Media

Deep garnet colored, the 2010 Gracia opens with notes of sweaty leather, smoked meats and tapenade over a core of baked plums, fruitcake and potpourri. Full-bodied, the palate has a racy line and firm, chewy tannins supporting the evolved, earthy fruit, finishing a little drying, tart and rustic. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate

Tasted blind. Deep, opaque garnet. Smells very mature – dried fruits, undergrowth, leather, cigar box. But it’s juicy and fresh and full of dried fruit on the palate. Big but smooth structure and a fresh if chewy finish. Perhaps a little bit tart on the end. Alcoholic heat at the end. (JH) - Jancis Robinson