Spirits ArchivistReview: 1998 Pouy - L'Encantada
1998 L'Encantada Pouy (22 yr.) Binny's #100 - 56%
The Pouy estate was a husband and wife operation in the Tenareze region. This bottling was distilled by Patrick on a mobile still from Ugni Blanc and Colombard grapes. Production has ceased at this domaine, but a handful of vintages have been released including a highly regarded 1998 #78 by Serge (WF 91). This cask was selected by Binny's.
Notes: Honeyed, jammy, floral - all that hits quick, but there's a lot of freshly sawn wood encroaching. Touch of maple syrup. On the palate, the wood tastes new. Dry lumber. There are florals, blueberries and honey up front - grassiness behind it. But the wood dominates the more delicate notes. Wax candies. Strawberry licorice. Structure is impressive - everything feels young and green - with the weight and integration totally supporting it.
Score: 6 (Solid) ABV is managed nicely. Clarity and structure are great. The wood is just too assertive and young for me to fully get behind it. It lands a little too close to small barrel, craft whiskey notes. The best parts here remind me of a young, 2001 Grosperrin Fins Bois from last month.
Rating System
10 - Reevaluate The Budget
9 - Stash Two (If Able)
8 - Stash One (At The Right Price)
7 - Highly Recommend It To Strangers
6 - Solid - Above Average
5 - Acceptable For The Situation
4 - Not Vocally Complaining
3 - Anything Else To Drink?
2 - Nothing Nice To Say
1 - Drain Pour