Bodegas Juan Gil Jumilla 2003
Bodegas Juan Gil 2003 Spain, Jumilla ($16)
This 100% Monastrell (aka. Mourvedre) is grown on 40 year old estate parcels of chalky soil in the Jumilla region of Spain. The arid climate and bed of limestone and rock makes for a low yield, intensly complex wine. The grapes are macerated for 25 days and aged for a year in French oak.
I have been on a Jumilla kick since I had a glass of Altos de Luzon (also Jumilla) at Bar Jamon in Manhattan. Luckily this bottle was just almost as impressive. Dark inky purple color with powerful blackberry aromas. The texture is fleshy and smooth. A full bodied taste of dark berries with a perfect alcohol/fruit ratio. Since the alcohol is 14.8%, it is impressive that I didn't feel any heat. The finish is long with just enough spice to keep it interesting. Looking at the two empty glasses and one empty bottle with a slight buzz, my girlfriend and I agreed that this wine was well above average. Luckily I have another bottle!
My grade: A-

The Juan Gil and the Altos de luzon are both great! Two words: Jorge Ordonez!!!
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jens at cincinnati wine warehouse
Posted by: jens at cincinnati wine warehouse | December 13, 2005 at 08:04 AM
I just tasted this wine
I thought it was one the great values I have tasted this year. I know the year just started.
The wine shows good depth, full body, great balance, with a good promising future, bought one case, had one bottle and i going to put the rest away untill next year.
Definitely rated in the 90's
Posted by: Abel Jacinto | January 05, 2006 at 05:07 PM
Once again, Bodegas Hijos de Juan Gil Juan Gil Monastrell 2003, proves that wine making is a science. For 14.8% proof, this red wine is exceptionally smooth, and not dry, which is rare. Big thumbs up.
Posted by: Rich Mirandi | June 25, 2007 at 04:18 PM