This was one of those modern-day-miracle finds: a dusty, dirty bottle in a corner, hiding behind a case of cleanly stacked Syrah. Last bottle. iPhone check-out revealed a 9-oh from the Wine Advocate, with some waffling about pain grille and pencil lead (I’m serious. that’s “pain” as in “french bread.” never mind that this is a spanish wine). For the less poetic souls, just think BIG tannins. I didn’t enjoy it until it had taken about 30 minutes of fresh air. Even then, prepare yourself for a tongue-scraping experience. That aside, the wine has an alluring complexity. Roll it around on your palate and you will probably find a nuance of any “red fruit” you desire. For example… pomegranate (see label). Enjoyable! If I come across another bottle, I’m going to stuff it in my cellar for 5+ years, and see if it softens up. First I better get a cellar… The blend is 40% Merlot/40% Cabernet Sauvignon/20% Tempranillo. Sort of a Basque Bordeaux.
paid: $18
scored: 89ish