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Masia Carreras 2003 Vintage: 2003 Colour: Red Origin: Spain - Catalunya - Emporda-Costa Brava DO Alc % by Vol: 15% 3 X 750ml 98CHF Robert Parker: 94/100 Jean-Michel Deluc: To see the rest of this promotion

Our opinion

This little gem, has a perfect balance between richness and minerality and its fruity aromas support the wonderful floral notes. Grand!

Description

The estate of Marti Fabra Carreras is owned by a family of the same name, and has been present in the region since the 12th Century with document showing their fist acquisition of vines dating back to 1305. However the Bodega itself was only founded in 1900, after the Black Plague had completely changed the face of the region. Joan Carreas and his son initiated a long programme to restore the vineyard and by 1961 the cellar and the winery were completely re-built.
The appellation of Ampurdan Costa Brava is situated to the north of Calalonia (Ampurdan is Emporda in catalan) and it is here that the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean, and Spain meets France. Certain parcels of vines even cross the border! The land is therefore fairly similar to that of Banyuls and Collioure in Roussillon.Like it neighbouring appellation Ampurdan has some very extreme weather conditions with its very hot and dry summers and over 100 days of tramontane, violent winds that protect the vines from disease during the winter and spring.The soil is equally comparable, very poor, with schist that gives the grapes a natural acidity that acts as a perfect counterweight to their extreme maturity. For a long time now this region has been known for its rosé wines but it is becoming more and more known for its reds. Robert Parker has been particularly fond of this Bodega ever since 2001.

Tips on service

• Conservation: ready now but will improve
• At its best in: 2009
• To decant: 1 hour
• Serve at 17°

Food and wine matching

Spare rib of porc, Kidney fricassée, fried foie gras and bacon, steack served in a red wine sauce, beef casserole, powerful ripe cheeses...

Tasting notes

By Jean Michel Deluc : Master Sommelier

Eye - The intense ruby colour has tints of violet showing it youth with shades of mauve at the rim of the glass, showing that this wine has just started its evolution. The wine has a rich fat concentration in the glass. Glossy and opaque due to its density.
Nose - The nose is superbly complex with a mixture of primary and secondary notes. Firstly you will find the flattering perfumes of smoke, toast, mild tobacco, coffee and cacao. Followed by the jammy fruity notes of blackcurrant, blackberries, blueberries, Morello cherries and prunes. Finally, liquorice, peppermint and cinnamon that all give great dimension to the wine. This wine has a wonderfully powerful velvetiness.
Palate - On the palate the concentration is the first thing to hit you. The fruity Granache grapes are perfectly allied with the virile structure of the Caragnan. The initial roundness of the attack is quickly replaced by a powerful structure, a refreshing acidity and young crunchy tannins Just like on the nose the finish is rounded off by the mild spicy flavours. Magnificent!