Robert M. Parker Jr.’s

The WINE ADVOCATE

28/02/03   Issue 145

ALVEAR N.V Amontillado Carlos V11 Sherry 91/100

ALVEAR 2000 Fino En Rama     Sherry        91/100

ALVEAR N.V Oloroso Asuncion  Sherry        93/100

ALVEAR 2000 Pedro Ximenez  Sherry         95/100

ALVEAR 1910 Pedro Ximenez  Sherry         98/100

 90-95 = An outstanding wine of exceptional complexity and character, in short,    these are terrific wines.

96-100 = An extraordinary wine of profound and complex character displaying all the attributes expected of a classic wine of its variety. Wines of this calibre are worth a special effort to find, purchase and consume.

‘Fino has tremendous aromatics, a wonderfully salty almond and hazelnut note, crisp acidity, and light-bodied, dry flavours that are intense as well as delicate.’

‘The Amontillado possesses a medium amber colour, gorgeous freshness, plenty of exciting nutty flavours, and a classic, dry finish. Even better is the light to medium amber-coloured Oloroso Asuncion. Believed to be from a 12 year old solera, it is super-fragrant, dry and intense.’

‘For those who love sweeter-styled Sherry, the light to medium ruby/amber-coloured 2000 Pedro Ximenez is knockout stuff. It exhibits oily sweetness (not cloying) softened by considerable acidity as well as roasted nut flavours intermixed with caramelised tropical fruits. The amazing pedal to the metal/full throttle/balls to the wall, sweet 1910 Pedro Ximenez is a dark amber-coloured, full-bodied, unctuously textured beauty that should be sipped and savoured slowly and carefully at the end of a meal. It is remarkable stuff.’

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