2009 Toro Alabaster

Cropped on October 14 and 15 at ten hectoliters per hectare, the 2009 Alabaster is similar to the 2010 in that it is a little reticent at first and demands coaxing from the glass. There are notes of black currant pastels, cedar and a touch of graphite. The palate is medium-bodied with nicely integrated oak, the tannins not quite as fine as the 2010, but supporting more fruit toward the finish. Blackberry, brine, touches of cedar and orange zest inform the finish, which has good weight but does not quite have the precision of the succeeding two vintages. Drink 2014-2025+. (Both samples of 2007 and 2008 Alabaster are still very youthful.) Apr 2013, www.robertparker.com