2003 Almaviva Rothschild-Concha y Toro

2003 Almaviva Rothschild-Concha y Toro

Almaviva is the name of both winery and wine born of the joint venture between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Viña Concha y Toro. It is also that of Pierre de Beaumarchais’ character, the “Count of Almaviva” in his Marriage of Figaro, a work Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart later turned into one of the most popular operas ever. The classical epithet laid out in Pierre de Beaumarchais’ fair hand, shares the label with insignia of pre-hispanic roots symbolizing a union of European and American cultures that at every level has created successive bonds over centuries that have evolved a unique identity. The recent synthesis of French tradition and American soil has delivered an exceptional wine embodying the best of both worlds, a Primer Orden that really shines.

Critical Acclaim

95 Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

The 2003 Almaviva is a real blockbuster, powerhouse vintage for this estate. With an inky blue/purple color, a beautiful nose of camphor, charcoal, blueberry, blackberry, and some spicy but subtle new oak, the wine is quite full-bodied, powerful, rich, but with silky tannins and loads of glycerin. This could turn out to be one of the all-time great wines released by this partnership and should continue to drink well for another two decades.

94 Wine Spectator

Quite ripe, with braised fig, stewed plum, black currant paste and cherry preserve notes backed by roasted coffee and bacon notes. A tarry edge drives through the very lush finish. Shows more raw power than freshness, but is still quite packed and in need of more unwinding.

94 Wine Enthusiast

Impressive in every way. The color shines an iridescent ruby, while the bouquet is massive, an amalgamation of fresh-cut cedar, pencil lead and lush berry fruit. Ripe as can be and balanced, with plushness and depth you don’t normally find. Finishes round and creamy, with vanilla and liqueur notes.