Spain

• • 97
  • 98

  2020 Comando G Las Iruelas Garnacha

  Sierra de Gredos, SPAIN

  $375. 00

  Bottle

  $4500.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 15%

  Closure: Cork

  It’s time to leave your preconceptions at the door, as Comando G produce Garnacha (Grenache) unlike anyone else in Spain. Comando G’s Daniel Landi and Fernando Garcia craft Garnacha up in the near inaccessible hills of the Sierra de Gredos mountains which are miles away (figuratively and literally) from the dark, powerful, brooding wines of Priorat that hit the scene 20 years or so ago. These are a different breed of Garnacha, light, ethereal, built on tension and finesse. There’s no lack of concentration however, and they have much more in common with high-end Burgundy than what you would normally associate with Spain. Word is well and truly out on these special wines, with demand far outstripping supply and prices skyrocketing on the secondary market.

  Other Reviews....
  Like the El Reventón, the 2020 Las Iruelas is now a wine from Comando G and no longer a Dani Landi wine, whose personal project came to an end with the 2019 vintage. As with El Reventón, this is still exactly the same wine from the same vineyard in El Tiemblo on slate soils, produced in exactly the same way, matured 50% in oak foudre and the other 50% in concrete. Since 2016, they harvest three times here, as they have three terroir units that behave quite differently. Since then, the wine has gained in precision, subtleness and elegance, combining more Mediterranean and Atlantic characteristics: floral, aromatic, herbal, honey, resin, a sensation of sweetness without being sweet, ethereal but with lots of energy, grip, depth and complexity. It's among the finest vintages for this wine, and the vineyard is slowly revealing itself as one of their finest. 3,401 bottles and 100 magnums produced. It was bottled a little later than the others, in May 2022. Drink 2023 - 2033.
  98 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Jun 01, 2023)

  A spicier and more savory expression from Comando G with lots of dried Mediterranean herbs, rosemary, thyme, dried oranges, wild raspberries, white pepper and a hint of mothball. Tangy bitter herbs on the palate with dusty tannins that meld into the dried herb and citrus flavors. The fine, herbal bitterness makes it unique and characterful. Drink or hold.
  97 points
  James Suckling

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• • 99
  • 99

  2020 Comando G Tumba del Rey Moro Garnacha

  Sierra de Gredos, SPAIN

  $415. 00

  Bottle

  $4980.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Cork

  It’s time to leave your preconceptions at the door, as Comando G produce Garnacha (Grenache) unlike anyone else in Spain. Comando G’s Daniel Landi and Fernando Garcia craft Garnacha up in the near inaccessible hills of the Sierra de Gredos mountains which are miles away (figuratively and literally) from the dark, powerful, brooding wines of Priorat that hit the scene 20 years or so ago. These are a different breed of Garnacha, light, ethereal, built on tension and finesse. There’s no lack of concentration however, and they have much more in common with high-end Burgundy than what you would normally associate with Spain. Word is well and truly out on these special wines, with demand far outstripping supply and prices skyrocketing on the secondary market.

  Other Reviews....
  One of the more ethereal, paler, elegant and complex versions of this ungrafted vineyard in the village of Villanueva de Ávila is the 2020 Tumba del Rey Moro. This is closer to the elegant style of Umbrías than their own Umbrías this year. It was a good-yielding year; the vines were very balanced after many years of working them organically and biodynamically (but they're not yet certified). The wine is aromatic and floral, nuanced and fine-boned, mineral and vertical, with a texture of fine sand and light, energy and inner strength to the point where it's impossible to reflect it in a score. It has a faint bitter twist in the finish that is reminiscent of blood orange peel, which drove me crazy. This has to be the finest version of Tumba del Rey Moro to date. Bravo! 1,967 bottles and 50 magnums were filled in May 2022. Drink 2023 - 2032.
  99 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Jun 01, 2023)

  One of the palest and most orangey in color of Comando G’s wines. A nose that blows your mind with its zingy grapefruit, crushed raspberries, mineral, lots of tangy white pepper and agave, akin to a lightly herbal and smoky mezcal. Provocative! So fresh, incisive and ethereal, yet so unique. There is intensity and depth here, despite the pale color, with a subtle, bone-dry and lightly reductive palate. Structured tannins, very Barolo-like, with delicious austerity and some bitter herbs and grapefruit in the finish. Long and firm. Goes on and on. One to ponder. A little more austere and not as well-rounded as Rumbo Al Norte, but its’ personality provokes and haunts you. Drink or hold.
  99 points
  James Suckling

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• • 100
  • 99

  2020 Comando G Rumbo al Norte Garnacha

  Sierra de Gredos, SPAIN

  $750. 00

  Bottle

  $9000.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Cork

  It’s time to leave your preconceptions at the door, as Comando G produce Garnacha (Grenache) unlike anyone else in Spain. Comando G’s Daniel Landi and Fernando Garcia craft Garnacha up in the near inaccessible hills of the Sierra de Gredos mountains which are miles away (figuratively and literally) from the dark, powerful, brooding wines of Priorat that hit the scene 20 years or so ago. These are a different breed of Garnacha, light, ethereal, built on tension and finesse. There’s no lack of concentration however, and they have much more in common with high-end Burgundy than what you would normally associate with Spain. Word is well and truly out on these special wines, with demand far outstripping supply and prices skyrocketing on the secondary market.

  Other Reviews....
  I hate a score of 99+, and I thought I'd never use it, but I'm using it in this 2020 Rumbo al Norte, as it's impossible to split hairs and reflect the nuance of this wine, which is above the 2019 vintage but does not quite reach the level of the 2018 or 2016, so the only thing left in between is a 99+. The grapes were pristine and perfect, and they got a little more of them, so they aged the wine in a 1,200-liter oak foudre. The wine is super pale, floral with notes of decayed rose petals, musk and herbs (tomato vine), with lots of cleanliness despite the initial faint reduction. It has energy and fine tannins that are gentler than those from Navatalgordo. This is a wine of peace, harmony and complexity, a wine that feels very complete. 1,406 bottles and 50 magnums produced. It was bottled in March 2022. Drink 2023 - 2035.
  99+ points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Jun 01, 2023)

  Purity, etherealness and precision are the words to describe this wine. Just like the rest of Comando G’s range of garnachas, this is serious, airy and dangerously drinkable, yet Rumbo al Norte is more mineral and precise, more seductive, affectionate and pure, but probably a little less austere, with naturally juicy and herbal raspberries and firm tannins. Great succulence and brightness. Delicious now, like the rest of the range, but it will be interesting to see how this ages. Drink now through to 2040.
  100 points
  James Suckling

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• • 94
  • 91

  2020 Comando G La Bruja de Rozas Garnacha

  Sierra de Gredos, SPAIN

  $43. 99

  Bottle

  $527.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Cork

  Comando G is the joint project of Fernando Garcia, of Marañones, and Daniel Landi, of his eponymous label. Based in the town of Rozas del Puerto Real, high in the Sierra de Gredos, the Comando G team produce some of the most celebrated and sought-after wines in Spain. The combination of poor granitic soils, old vine Garnacha, high rainfall and extreme altitude results in ethereally light, delicate wines that show the effortless structure, precision and poise that is usually associated with high-end Burgundy.

  Other Reviews....
  The first red to be bottled and sold is the 2020 La Bruja de Rozas, which feels a little more reductive this year. The grapes were picked before the torrential rains, so the wine shows a little riper than the wines that were picked after (the single vineyards). It's flinty and with a note of struck match, with good ripeness at 14.5% alcohol. This is always aromatic and floral, pale and surprisingly ethereal and expressive, a very pleasant and surprising wine that tends to please most people. This is the wine that I buy in volume, as it's a superb introduction to the Comando G portfolio and style at a very good price. Even though the nose is never short of spectacular, to me the signature here is the super fine grainy tannins from the decomposed granite soils. This goes back to the freshness of 2016 and 2018, perhaps a little rounder and less herbal, somewhere in between the two vintages. 43,175 bottles were filled in late August and early September 2021. Drink 2022 - 2028.
  94 Points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (November 2021)

  Dani Landi and Fernando García have done more than anyone to transform the fortunes of central Spain’s Sierra de Gredos, investing so much of their energy into its abandoned and semi-abandoned old vineyard plots. It’s thanks to them that we have witnessed the stratospheric rise of Pinot-esque Gredos Garnacha. Drink 2022 - 2028.
  91 Points
  Darren Smith - Decanter (December 2021)

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• • 93

  2020 Comando G Mataborricos Garnacha et. al.

  Sierra de Gredos, SPAIN

  $41. 99

  Bottle

  $503.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12.8%

  Closure: Cork

  Comando G is the joint project of Fernando Garcia, of Marañones, and Daniel Landi, of his eponymous label. Based in the town of Rozas del Puerto Real, high in the Sierra de Gredos, the Comando G team produce some of the most celebrated and sought-after wines in Spain. The combination of poor granitic soils, old vine Garnacha, high rainfall and extreme altitude results in ethereally light, delicate wines that show the effortless structure, precision and poise that is usually associated with high-end Burgundy.

  Other Reviews....
  I found the unoaked 2020 Mataborricos to be the finest bottling to date of this characterful red, the darkest of them all, as it's not a pure Garnacha. In fact, there's less Garnacha this year, as they got together all the other varieties found in different vineyards (Listán Prieto, Morate, Vidadillo and even white varieties). A higher percentage of the wine matured in concrete instead of tinaja, and the concrete vats have tighter closures than the tinajas, so the wines end up being less oxidative. The wine is crunchier and more precise, cleaner even, and with more marked character. It keeps the path of the 2019 but with the help of a fresher year. It's only 12.8% alcohol, quite different from the other reds. 2,353 bottles. Drink 2022 - 2027.
  93 Points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (November 2021)
  
  

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• • 86

  2010 Conde de Valdemar Crianza Tempranillo

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $21. 99

  Bottle

  $263.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 1 - 2 Years (2016-2017)

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Aromas of black cherries and black plum are overlaid by some dried herb characters with light scorched earth end notes. Medium weight with a chewy mouthfeel the palate has flavours of black cherries and liquorice followed by some leather and dried herbs. Dryish finish with firm chewy tannins. Aftertaste of black cherries, leather and spicy dried herbs.
  Drink over the next 1-2 years.
  Alc. 13.5%

  Delivery Information
• • 94

  2004 Conde de Valdemar Gran Reserva

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $79. 99

  Bottle

  $959.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2023-2024)

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Cork

  A blend of 85% Tempranillo, 10% Mazuelo and 5% Graciano. Deeper in colour than the 2001 but with a more subdued nose, the 2004 has a black dark red core and a deep dark red hue. The nose reveals aromas of liquorice, dark plum and earthy leather characters over toasty vanillin oak and spice. Rich dark cherry, dark plum and liquorice flavours greet the palate within a soft round feel. Earthy vanillin oak, leather and spicy pepper characters then move in. Very supple with a slightly dryish finish and velvet smooth tannins. Earthy leather aftertaste of liquorice, dark plum, smoky vanillin oak and spice.
  Drink over the next 4-5 years.
  Alc. 13.5%
  
  Other Reviews…
  2004 was one of the great post-war Rioja vintages, so it’s no surprise that this majestic wines, still available in tiny quantities, is so fresh. Denser and richer than the 2001, it’s wonderfully complex and balsamic, with notes of Asian spices, fresh tobacco and sweet red fruits. 2019 - 2024.
  96 points
  Tim Atkin MW

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• • 94

  2001 Conde de Valdemar Gran Reserva

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $79. 99

  Bottle

  $959.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 3 - 4 Years (2022-2023)

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Cork

  A blend of 85% Tempranillo, 10% Mazuelo and 5% Graciano. Totally opaque dark red core with black tinged edges and a dark brick red hue. Intense ripe dark to black cherry and liquorice scents infused with vanillin oak are followed by dark chocolate, light earth and spice. Medium to full bodied and velvety in its feel the palate dishes up flavours of dark cherries, liquorice, dark plum and chocolatey vanillin oak over some earthy leather and spice characters. Very polished, seamlessly integrated tannins. Excellent length with a long liquorice, dark plum, vanillin oak, earthy leather and spice aftertaste.
  Drink over the next 3-4 years.
  Alc. 13.5%
  
  Other Reviews….
  Still on the market, albeit in limited quantities, this shows that Bodegas Valdemar’s reds age beautifully, especially in top vintages like 2001. Elegant, balanced and hauntingly poised, it has lovely tobacco, forest floor, and game notes, fine tannins and a long, sweet, tapering finish. 2019 - 2023.
  94 points
  Tim Atkin MW

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• • 93

  2012 Conde Valdemar Reserva Rioja

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $34. 99

  Bottle

  $419.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2021-2023)

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Cork

  Dense black as night heart with a deep dark red black hue. Elevated aromatics of black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice intermingle with scorched earth, dried herbs, old leather and balsamic like notes. Medium to full in body, ripe black cherry flavours have an earthy leather quality to them with toasty cedar, dried herbs and subtle balsamic characters in the background. Dry chewy tannins with earthy leather and balsamic characters lingering on the aftertaste.
  Drink over the next 1-2 years.
  Alc. 14%

  Delivery Information
• • 93

  2019 Conde Valdemar Rose

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $14. 99

  Bottle

  $179.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2020-2021)

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  Made from a blend of 70% Garnacha and 30% Mazuelo grapes. Translucent salmon pink colour. Nosing reveals a fragrant mixture of peach, strawberry, subtle blood orange and light musk aromas followed by spice end notes. The palate has excellent intensity and a supple feel with peach, raspberry and tangy blood orange fruits overlaying a wet stone and spice back drop. Finishes very dry with crisp acidity and a refreshingly savoury aftertaste.
  Drink over the next year.
  Alc. 13.5%

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• • 93
  • 91

  2016 Conde Valdemar Crianza Tempranillo

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $22. 99

  Bottle

  $275.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  A blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano aged for 13 months in American oak barrels. Very deep black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Aromas of black cherries and liquorice infused with dried herbs are trailed by some scorched earth and spicy vanillin cedar notes. Medium bodied black cherry and liquorice flavours have a chewy feel with earthy dried herb and spicy pepper nuances sitting underneath. Firm ripe tannins with a medium length conclusion.
  Drink over the next 4-5 years.
  Alc. 13.5%

  Other Reviews….
  This polished red is firm and focused. Cherry and berry flavors mingle with forest floor, black tea and vanilla notes, while juicy acidity balances the tannins. Harmonious, showing good depth and length. Drink now through 2028.
  91 points
  Wine Spectactor

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• • 94

  2010 Conde Valdemar Reserva

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $32. 99

  Bottle

  $395.88 Dozen

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  Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2018-2021)

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Cork

  A blend of Tempranillo, Graciano and Mazvelo aged for 26 months in 70% American and 30% French oak barrels. Totally opaque black dark red core showing excellent depth with a deep dark red hue. Pronounced aromatics of ripe black cherries and liquorice overlaid by old leather drift from the glass. Also evident is some scorched earth, old leather and spice. Medium to full bodied palate with flavours of black cherries, liquorice and old leather prevalent over a scorched earth back drop that also has some spice. Dry earthy finish with very smooth tannins. Aftertaste of earthy black cherries, liquorice, old leather, toasty oak and spice.
  Drink over the next 2-3 years.
  Alc. 13.5%

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• • 97
  • 97
  • 96
  • 95

  • Nick's Import

  2019 CVNE Real de Asua Carromaza Rioja

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $165. 00

  Bottle

  $1980.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now - 10 Years (2023-2033)

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Cork

  A 100% Tempranillo from a single vineyard plot with maturation taking place in new and second use French barriques for 12 months. Pitch black dark red heart with a vibrant dark red hue. Superb nose with aromatics of dark to black cherry, violets, liquorice, dark plum and vanillin cedar enchanting the olfactory senses. Notions of dried herbs, earth and leather then chime in to add further complexity. Rich and concentrated yet only mid weighted with a refined, elegant feel, the palate is decorated with delicious dark to black cherry, liquorice and dark plum fruit. Vanillin oak, earthy dried herb and spicy leather elements linger underneath. Chewy tannins and beautifully balanced acidity lend structure and freshness to what is a long and very savoury finish. An outstanding expression of modern Rioja.
  Drink over the next 8-10 years.
  Alc. 14%

  Other Reviews....
  The modern 2019 Real de Asúa has been produced since 2018 with grapes from a paraje in the village of Villalba called Carromaza (now mentioned on the label) on sandy, south-facing soils that were harvested between the 8th and 9th of October. 2019 was a low-yielding year with loose and small bunches that ripened thoroughly delivering wines that are balanced and have aging potential. It's 14.5% alcohol and has mellow acidity and good freshness and balance. It fermented in small oak vats with indigenous yeasts followed by malolactic in new French oak barrels and then matured in new and second use French barriques for 12 months. The wine is very impressive, showy, clean and harmonious, without any noticeable oak, juicy, harmonious, young, fresh and elegant. It has concentration, power and finesse. It has a new label and bottle and a much more modern image but with the essence form the past. The wine has improved a lot, and it has grip and very fine tannins. Very impressive. It has the naked essence of Rioja without the layers and layers of oak, now from a single vineyard where they want freshness and a lush but floral and delicate profile you have to drink effortlessly. Superb. 10,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in February 2022. Drink: 2023 - 2033.
  96 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate

  A full-bodied, ripe and delicious red with firm, lightly chewy tannins. Lots of cherries, dried flowers, coconut and rosemary. Lavender and white roses, too. Firm and very well structured. Tight and fresh at the end. First year with single vineyard on the label. 100% tempranillo. Try this after 2025.
  97 points
  James Suckling

  A new addition to the Place de Bordeaux. This is a 'more modern' wine from the established Spanish winery says CVNE CEO and fifth generation family member Victor Urrutia made from the 2.5ha plot of 30-year-old Tempranillo grapes known as Carromaza in the village of Villalba, 700m high in Rioja Alta. Gorgeous fragrance on the nose with a soft and juicy core of black and red cherry and bramble raspberry fruit with liquorice, toasted caramel and clove spice backed up by chalky tannins that give an enjoyable minerality to the palate. Lifted and driven, this is vibrant with plush but well defined fruit and a sculpted frame. Excellent freshness overall, youthful and energetic.
  95 points
  Georgina Hindle - Decanter

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• • 93

  2017 Demuerte One

  Yecla, SPAIN

  $22. 99

  Bottle

  $275.88 Dozen

  Minimum 6 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2020-2024)

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Cork

  A blend of 90% Monastrell and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Totally opaque black core with a deep dark red hue. Aromas of blackcurrant, black cherry and liquorice mix with light scorched earth and pepper notes. Ripe juicy black cherry and liquorice fruits fill the mouth over an earthy leather, dried herb and spice back drop. Chewy tannins provide structure. Solid depth with a rich, lush yet slightly grippy aftertaste.
  Drink over the next 3-4 years.
  Alc. 14.5%

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• • 91

  2016 Diez-Caballero Crianza Tempranillo

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $24. 99

  Bottle

  $299.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2022-2024)

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Cork

  Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Heady black cherry and liquorice aromas morph into scorched earth, old leather and spice. The mid weighted palate still manages to carry an ample level of freshness with black cherry and liquorice flavours intermixing with earthy leather, old cedar and spice elements. Chewy tannins with the tertiary elements of old earthy cedar and leather lingering on the aftertaste.
  Drink over the next 1-2 years.
  Alc. 14%

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• • 94

  2014 Dominio del Soto Ribera del Duero Crianza

  Ribera del Duero, SPAIN

  $34. 99

  Bottle

  $419.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2021-2022)

  ABV: 16%

  Closure: Cork

  100% Tempranillo aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. Totally opaque black as night dark red core with a bright dark red black tinged hue. Heady scents of ripe black cherries and liquorice intermix with earthy leather nuances followed by spicy toasted cedar and pepper. Rich, very powerful and chewy the palate is saturated with ripe black cherry and liquorice fruits underscored by earthy leather characters, toasty cedar and spicy pepper. Firm, robust tannin structure. Long grippy aftertaste of black cherries, liquorice, earth, leather, toasty cedar and spicy pepper. A rich powerful Tempranillo with chewy tannins.
  Cellar 4-5 years.
  Alc. 16%

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• • 90

  2011 Don Aurelio Crianza Tempranillo

  Valdepenas, SPAIN

  $19. 99

  Bottle

  $239.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 2 - 3 Years (2018-2019)

  ABV: 13%

  Closure: Cork

  Excellent colour displaying a black dark red core with a dark crimson red hue. Aromas of black cherries, ripe dark raspberries and subtle liquorice are followed by earthy leather notes and spice. Medium bodied the palate has flavours of dark ripe cherries, some dark raspberries, earthiness and spicy leather with a dry chewy finish. Slightly firmish tannins. Aftertaste of ripe dark cherries, dark raspberries, earthy leather and spice.
  Drink over the next 2-3 years
  Alc 13%

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• • 91

  2013 El Paso del Lazo Tempranillo Shiraz

  La Tierra de Castilla, SPAIN

  $16. 99

  Bottle

  $203.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 2 - 3 Years (2016-2017)

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  Opaque black purple colour with a bright dark purple hue. The nose displays aromas of inky dark cherries intermixed with some liquorice, earthiness and spice. Light to medium weight the palate has good up front generosity with fruity dark cherry flavours followed by a faint touch of liquorice, toasty earth and spice. Slightly dryish but very fine grained tannins. Aftertaste of dark cherries, toasty earth and spice.
  Drink over the next 2-3 years.
  Alc 13.5%

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• • 84

  2017 El Quintanal Tempranillo

  Ribera del Duero, SPAIN

  $27. 99

  Bottle

  $335.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 2 - 3 Years (2020-2021)

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Diam Cork

  Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Dried herbs and earth are quite prominent on the nose with toasty notes, subtle black cherry and spice also evident. The palate has a juicy feel to it but again it’s the toasty earth and dried herb flavours that are dominate. Dryish finish with slightly chalky tannins. Lacks flavour balance with a short bitter dried herb, toasty earth and spice aftertaste.
  Cellar 2-3 years.
  Alc. 14.5%

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• • 89

  2011 Embocadero Tempranillo

  Ribera del Duero, SPAIN

  $26. 99

  Bottle

  $323.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2020-2021)

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Cork

  Totally opaque black crimson colour with a dark crimson red hue. The nose opens with intense ripe black cherry top notes followed by some liquorice, earthy cedar, incense and spice. Dry, chewy and tightly coiled the palate has medium bodied flavours of black cherries, liquorice, leather, earthy cedar and spice. Very dry finish with firm muscular tannins. Aftertaste of black cherries, liquorice, chewy leather and spice.
  Cellar 5-6 years.
  Alc. 14%

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• • 93
  • 92

  2016 Enrique Mendoza La Tremenda Monastrell

  Alicante, SPAIN

  $27. 99

  Bottle

  $335.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 3 - 4 Years (2021-2022)

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Cork

  Aged for 6 months in French oak. Totally opaque black dark red colour with a deep dark red hue. Elevated ripe black cherry and liquorice aromas meld into scorched earth, dried herb and spice notes. Rich luscious black cherry flavours dominate over liquorice, vanillin cedar, earth and spice. Slightly chewy finish with sturdy tannins and an aftertaste of spicy black cherries, liquorice, earthy vanillin cedar and dried herbs.
  Cellar 3-4 years.
  Alc. 14%

  Other Reviews…
  Their entry-level Monastrell is already the 2016 La Tremenda is sourced from the vineyard that names the wine, from their estate El Chaconero in the village of Villena, a plot at 600 meters altitude planted some 25 years ago. It fermented in stainless steel and matured in French barriques for six months. 2016 is a cooler year than 2014 or 2015, and the wines reflect it. It was not an easy year; they had to do a strict selection of grapes, and it paid off. It has the character of the variety, with its elegant rusticity with a fresh, herbal twist and a palate with fine-grained tannins, nicely textured and with a supple, very tasty finish. This is a superb introduction to Monastrell from Alicante at an incredible price. 50,000 bottles produced. Drink 2018-2021
  92 points
  Luis Gutierrez – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

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• • 96
  • 95

  2021 Envinate La Santa de Ursula Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $81. 99

  Bottle

  $983.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  La Santa de Ursula is a new bottling from the northeast coast of Tenerife in an area called La Carujera, part of the Tacoronte-Acentejo appellation. It’s a blend of three parcels of 100+ year old vines planted on sandy clay over red basalt bedrock, situated between 350m and 650m above sea level. The blend is 48% Negramoll, 50% Listán Negro, and 2% Listán Blanco, which are vinified partially with whole clusters in cement and aged in small neutral oak barrels. Bottling is without fining or filtration, and only a small addition of sulfur.

  Other Reviews....
  The impressive 2021 La Santa de Úrsula has a floral, peppery and herbal nose and an elegant and fresh palate, with a sensation of harmony and balance. It has very fine tannins and a long, clean and ethereal sensation in the finish. 9,700 bottles and 100 magnums produced. It was bottled in July 2022. Drink 2023 - 2029.
  95+ points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Dec 01, 2023)

  Beautiful nose full of white pepper funk, grapefruit, wild raspberries, chalk and mineral. On the palate, this is ethereal and lively but super tense with a bit more verticality than the equally attractive, funky but linear Táganan. Textured, mineral and wild finish that develops in the finish. Goes on and on. Delicious and so drinkable now, but this can age, for a decade, too, if not more.
  96 points
  JamesSuckling.com

  Delivery Information
• • 96
  • 100

  • Limit One per customer

  2021 Envinate Taganan Parcela Margalagua Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $160. 00

  Bottle

  $1920.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Táganan is both the name of a village on the very north eastern tip of Tenerife and a local term for steep slope. Envínate make two reds and two whites from this village; Táganan Tinto and Blanco, which come from multiple old parcels and two crus, parcelas Campanario and Margalagua. All the wines are field blends containing a dizzying array of obscure local varieties grown on very old bush vines in the steep volcanic soils overlooking the ocean.

  Limit one bottle per customer.

  Other Reviews....
  The very elegant 2021 Táganan Parcela Margalagua reveals notes of very fresh fruit and flowers. It is complex, nuanced and deep, with a Burgundian profile, with very fine tannins and a silky texture. It has subtle volcanic minerality and a salty twist in the finish, showing the red volcanic soils and the proximity of the ocean. It's a floral and elegant vintage in the style of 2016 and 2018, ethereal but full of energy and light. I had the chance to retaste the wine next to all the vintages ever produced and bottled, from 2012 to 2022, and this proved to be more complete and in balance, with more depth and also more freshness than any of the other vintages. So, I decided that this deserves a three-digit score as the finest Margalagua ever produced. Bravo! 1,500 bottles were filled in July 2022. I should publish the notes on that vertical in a separate article soon. Drink 2024 - 2032.
  100 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Dec 01, 2023)

  Bow to the tangy nose full of white pepper funk, mezcal-like herbs and naturally fresh wild berries drizzled with sea salt. Hints of sea urchin and clove spice and savoriness, too. Crystal clear and transparent on the palate with bone-dry and succulent berries. Chalky tannins lead it to a long, mouthwatering finish full of white pepper and wild red berries. So delicious now, but will hold, too.
  96 points
  JamesSuckling.com

  Delivery Information
• • 96
  • 95

  2021 Envinate Lousas Vinas de Aldea Mencia

  Ribeira Sacra, SPAIN

  $52. 99

  Bottle

  $635.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12.5%

  Closure: Cork

  Lousas is the name Envintate has given to their wines from Ribeira Sacra, translating to slate and a nod to the rock that marks these wines. Each of their Lousas releases are predominately Mencia, along with a smaller component of various indigenous varieties such as Merenzao, Caino, Garnacha Tintorerra, and Palomino among many others. Vina de Aldea is a blend of several plots from the Amandi, Quiroga, and Ribeiras do Sil subregions of Ribeira Sacra. Doad meanwhile hails from different terroirs throughout the Galician town of Doade, is Mencia dominant with the remaining 15% a field blend of various varieties. Rosende is sourced from a single vineyard from a village of the same name, and the soils here are similar to the Northern Rhone with granite crystals flecked through the sand. Finally Camino Novo is a single vineyard perched on the edge of the River Sil, where the vines are 80 years old and always produce some of the most profound Mencia in the area.

  Other Reviews....
  The 2021 Lousas Viñas de Aldea is a regional red from Ribeira Sacra but is sold without appellation of origin. It was produced with 80% Mencía and some 20% Merenzao, Brancellao, Caíño, Sousón, Mouratón, Alicante, Godello and Palomino, etc., from vines ranging from 25 to 60 years of age to represent the region and vintage. The grapes were picked between September 12th and 28th and vinified in concrete and small plastic bins with 70% to 100% full clusters, depending on the plot, and matured in well-seasoned oak barrels of different ages with lees for 11 months without racking or added sulfur. It's a truly Atlantic vintage, with a profile similar to 2018, 2016, 2014—vertical and fine-grained, textured and with finesse, balance and freshness. In general, the 2021s feel more austere and reductive, flintier. 25,975 bottles and 420 magnums were produced. It was bottled in November 2022. Drink 2023 - 2030.
  95 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Nov 17, 2023)

  Excellent depth with a vibrant lift of pepperiness to the wild and airy bramble fruit and minerality. Chalky and broad on the palate but really weightless with chalky tannins and a fresh, refined finish. Delicious now.
  96 points
  JamesSuckling.com

  Delivery Information
• • 96
  • 96

  2021 Envinate Lousas Rosende Mencia

  Ribeira Sacra, SPAIN

  $81. 99

  Bottle

  $983.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Lousas is the name Envintate has given to their wines from Ribeira Sacra, translating to slate and a nod to the rock that marks these wines. Each of their Lousas releases are predominately Mencia, along with a smaller component of various indigenous varieties such as Merenzao, Caino, Garnacha Tintorerra, and Palomino among many others. Vina de Aldea is a blend of several plots from the Amandi, Quiroga, and Ribeiras do Sil subregions of Ribeira Sacra. Doad meanwhile hails from different terroirs throughout the Galician town of Doade, is Mencia dominant with the remaining 15% a field blend of various varieties. Rosende is sourced from a single vineyard from a village of the same name, and the soils here are similar to the Northern Rhone with granite crystals flecked through the sand. Finally Camino Novo is a single vineyard perched on the edge of the River Sil, where the vines are 80 years old and always produce some of the most profound Mencia in the area.

  Other Reviews....
  The new village 2021 Rosende Lousas comes from different vineyards on granite and feldspar soils, coarse, where they have a Mencía-based field blend with some 15% other varieties (Sousón, Merenzao, Alicante, Grao Negro, Jerez, etc.) that were vinified with 100% full clusters in a 4,200-liter concrete vat and open bins, followed by malolactic in barrel and one year in a 2,000-liter oak foudre and neutral 228-liter barrels. It has a moderate 12% alcohol and a pH of 3.65 with five grams of acidity (tartaric). This is quite reductive and needs time to open up in the glass, with a flinty note and hints of toasted sesame seeds, serious, austere and delineated, very rocky and mineral. This is a cool, Atlantic vintage when the wines show more traditional Galician style, cool and floral. There's more red fruit and violets here than in the Doad. 3,300 bottles were produced. It was bottled in November 2022. Drink 2023 - 2031.
  96 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Nov 17, 2023)

  White sesame reduction with tangy wild berries, white pepper funk, mezcal and grapefruit. Dusty, minerally tannins resolve beautifully on the elegant and minerally attractive palate with a medium body and lengthy, soft-spoken finish. Excellent intensity framed in a feather-weighted palate. Delicious now, but can hold, too.
  96 points
  JamesSuckling.com

  Delivery Information
• • 97
  • 98

  2021 Envinate Lousas Parcela Camino Novo Mencia

  Ribeira Sacra, SPAIN

  $135. 00

  Bottle

  $1620.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12.5%

  Closure: Cork

  Lousas is the name Envintate has given to their wines from Ribeira Sacra, translating to slate and a nod to the rock that marks these wines. Each of their Lousas releases are predominately Mencia, along with a smaller component of various indigenous varieties such as Merenzao, Caino, Garnacha Tintorerra, and Palomino among many others. Vina de Aldea is a blend of several plots from the Amandi, Quiroga, and Ribeiras do Sil subregions of Ribeira Sacra. Doad meanwhile hails from different terroirs throughout the Galician town of Doade, is Mencia dominant with the remaining 15% a field blend of various varieties. Rosende is sourced from a single vineyard from a village of the same name, and the soils here are similar to the Northern Rhone with granite crystals flecked through the sand. Finally Camino Novo is a single vineyard perched on the edge of the River Sil, where the vines are 80 years old and always produce some of the most profound Mencia in the area.

  Other Reviews....
  They think of 2021 as a "classical" vintage in Ribeira Sacra, and the 2021 Lousas Parcela Camiño Novo, a field blend of 85% Mencía, 12% Alicante Bouschet and the rest a mixture of Brancellao, Merenzao, Grao Negro, etc., shows that classical profile, with good ripeness, 13.21% alcohol, a juicy mouthfeel and nice balance. The soils are gneiss and schist with more clay than other vineyards and therefore the source for rounder wines. It fermented with 100% full clusters and matured in neutral 228- and 500-liter barrels. This is super elegant and nuanced, the most elegant and complete wine today, with energy and light, rose petals and herbs, powerful and elegant in a rare combination, going back to the finest expression of this vineyard. It's expressive, open and complex, head and shoulders above the others today. 1,550 bottles were filled in November 2022. They had hail in 2022, so this wine was not produced that year. Drink 2023 - 2031.
  98 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Nov 17, 2023)

  A little “darker” on the nose with dark bramble fruit, ripe stems, sous bois berries, wet leaves, mussels and freshly picked porcini mushrooms. Tangy, bright acidity gives a fresh lift to the peppery fruit. Wild, reductive and delightfully long. So delicious and almost paradoxically deep for a wine with such perfume and inner wildness. Drink or hold.
  97 points
  JamesSuckling.com

  Delivery Information
• • 94
  • 94

  2020 Envinate Albahra Garnacha Tintorrera

  Castilla La Mancha, SPAIN

  $34. 99

  Bottle

  $419.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 13%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  Other Reviews....
  One of this producer’s best values, from alicante bouschet/garnacha tintorera, with an array of black and blue fruit, black pepper, dark cherries, graphite and crushed violets on the nose, following through to a juicy, medium-to full-bodied palate that’s full of fleshy fruit. Juicy and elegant, showing great drinkability. Drink now.
  94 Points
  JamesSuckling.com (September 2022)

  2020 was a great vintage in the Mediterranean, and the 2020 Albahra, a blend of 70% Garnacha Tintorera from the zone of Almansa and 30% Moravia Agria from Manchuela, showed better than ever. The two grapes fermented separately with part of full clusters in concrete and with indigenous yeasts. The Garnacha matured in concrete and the Moravia in neutral 228-liter barrels for eight months. It has 13% alcohol and good freshness, a fine thread and round tannins. It's juicy and supple—the harvest was easy with great weather, very different from 2019— and the acidity of the Moravia is more polished. The wine has a bright ruby color and is aromatic and clean, precise and attractive. It's medium-bodied and silky with very round tannins. They compare it with 2017. This is one of the most incredible bargains from Spain. Drink 2022 - 2026.
  94+ Points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (April 2022)

  Delivery Information
• • 94

  2020 Envinate Benje Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $46. 99

  Bottle

  $563.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  Benje refers to an area high above the cloud cover on the western edge of the Tiede volcano. It’s an area that produces markedly different wines, from the sappy freshness of the coastal zones but still carries the hallmark lightness of all of Envínate’s wines. Benje Tinto is straight Listan Prieto, Benje Blanco is Listan Blanco. Both are grown on a mixture of old ash and red clay at over 1000m above sea level.

  Other Reviews....
  I also tasted the red varietal Listán Prieto (a.k.a. País, Criolla Chica, Mission) 2020 Benje Tinto from a similarly dry and warm vintage as 2019, vinified and aged in the same way with indigenous yeasts and matured in neutral oak barrels for eight months. It feels a little closed (reductive?) but with a great palate. It feels like these 2020s have very fine tannins and velvety textures. Give it a little bit of time, but this will be as good as the 2019. 20,000 bottles and 200 magnums were produced. It was bottled in June 2021. Drink 2022 - 2026.
  94 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Feb 2022)

  Delivery Information
• • 95
  • 94

  2020 Envinate Migan Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $74. 99

  Bottle

  $899.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  Migan and Palo Blanco are both very old vine wines from the Valle de la Orotava zone, although they don’t bear the D.O. stamp. The old vines are trained in the Trezendo fashion: braiding new shoots over older ones until the vines begin to resemble old dreadlocks weaving over the landscape. The terrain is flatter than Táganan, more conducive to farming. Migan is two parcels of Listan Negro, both over 100 years old, while Palo Blanco is a single vineyard from the town of Los Realejos planted on black volcanic soils.

  Other Reviews....
  The 2020 Migan is a red from La Orotava and was produced with Listán Negro grapes from the village of La Perdoma, whose ancient name was Migan. It comes from four plots—Montijo (40% of the grapes), Tío Luis (30%), La Habanera (20%) and Las Suertes (10%)—on red volcanic soils and at different altitudes, between 350 and 600 meters above sea level, where altitude defines the character of the plot. In 2020, they didn't use the San Antonio vineyard that was used in previous vintages; it has been replaced by Montijo. 2020 was an early harvest, and the grapes fermented by plot, always with indigenous yeasts, and 70% of the wine matured in neutral 500- and 600-liter oak barrels, while the wine from Tío Luis matured in concrete. The change in vineyards (they abandoned the one with more clay at lower altitude and increased in higher altitude and with less clay) has given the wine an extra kick. These wines reward time in bottle, and they need at least one year. Right now, this feels a little closed and tight, but it has great freshness and finer tannins and, in the long run, should make a better wine than the 2019. 11,500 bottles and 300 magnums were produced. It was bottled in December 2021. Drink 2023 - 2028.
  95 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Feb 2022)

  These Envinate wines are something else. Made from amazing bush vines on Tenerife. They’re of the ilk of the most fine boned red wines but with incredible, beautiful tannin profile. Profound wines, and so distinct. These are some of the most sought after wines I know of from Spain. And worthy in that regard.
  This one is gossamer with the finest, silty tannin pucker. It’s fragrant in sour cherry, crushed rocks, puffs of soot and faint wild herb character. Flavours are similar and the wine sits at a beautiful lightish weight, full of that dark fruit and grippy minerality but with savouriness, game meat and more fragrant herb to taste. So succulent, so very pure feeling and so damn delicious. Remarkable wines of character and finesse and yet a wild streak reminiscent of their wild place they grow. Must do wines. Drink 2022 - 2028.
  94 points
  Mike Bennie - The Wine Front

  Delivery Information
• • 95

  2020 Envinate La Santa de Ursula Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $74. 99

  Bottle

  $899.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  La Santa de Ursula is a new bottling from the northeast coast of Tenerife in an area called La Carujera, part of the Tacoronte-Acentejo appellation. It’s a blend of three parcels of 100+ year old vines planted on sandy clay over red basalt bedrock, situated between 350m and 650m above sea level. The blend is 48% Negramoll, 50% Listán Negro, and 2% Listán Blanco, which are vinified partially with whole clusters in cement and aged in small neutral oak barrels. Bottling is without fining or filtration, and only a small addition of sulfur.

  Other Reviews....
  There is a new red from the north of Tenerife, the 2020 La Santa de Úrsula, a field blend of Negramoll and Listán Negro trained in a parral bajo way (similar to a gobelet). It's produced with grapes from the village of Santa Úrsula in the zone known as Tacoronte-Acentejo, but it's sold without appellation of origin. They had the chance to start working with three centenary plots from La Corujera, one at 350 meters above sea level and the other two at 600 meters. The area is something like Taganana but further away from the sea and with more rain, more like La Orotava. So, the wines are something in between, perhaps closer to the ones from Taganana, a little wild, herbal and floral, but Tacoronte-Acentejo has red soils. 2020 was very dry (half of the normal rain), and they started harvesting extremely early, the 11th of August. The wine is approximately 50% Listán Negro, 48% Negramoll and 2% white Listán Blanco fermented differently by plot with some full clusters (50% to 75%) in plastic bins and concrete vats, with 20% of the wine in carbonic maceration, which was the tradition in Tacoronte-Acentejo. This is a zone with high potential and with enough vineyards, unlike in Taganana. The wine matured in neutral 228-liter oak barrels for eight months. This is a superb debut. 5,500 bottles and 100 magnums produced. It was bottled in July 2021. Drink 2022 - 2028.
  95 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Feb 2022)

  Delivery Information
• • 99

  2020 Envinate Taganan Parcela Margalagua Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $92. 99

  Bottle

  $1115.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  Táganan is both the name of a village on the very north eastern tip of Tenerife and a local term for steep slope. Envínate make two reds and two whites from this village; Táganan Tinto and Blanco, which come from multiple old parcels and two crus, parcelas Campanario and Margalagua. All the wines are field blends containing a dizzying array of obscure local varieties grown on very old bush vines in the steep volcanic soils overlooking the ocean.

  Other Reviews....
  The 2020 Táganan Parcela Margalagua is a wine that always showcases the volcanic soils and the cooler Atlantic climate from the northeast corner of Tenerife, where there are red basalt soils, rather than the more usual black, and some iron in the soil provides the wine's color. They reckon the iron also provides finer tannins. The nose is always a lot more floral, delicate and all about finesse, to which iron should certainly help. It's also volcanic and spicy, but the dominant note is floral. The palate is medium-bodied and incredibly elegant, with a tasty and faint saltiness, following the line of the 2016, perhaps with a tad more precision. They use 10% of white grapes, something they started in 2015. 2020 was again very dry and even lower yielding, but the wine kept a moderate 12% alcohol, lower pH and higher acidity, which means more freshness. It has an amazing nose, floral, perfumed and showy but extremely elegant; it's more floral and perfumed than the 2019, subtler and more Burgundian and less volcanic. Very defined, clean and precise. The finest Margalagua they have ever produced, with the elegance of the 2018 but one step up in depth, elegance and layers. Only 1,500 bottles were filled in December 2021. Drink 2022 - 2030.
  99 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Feb 2022)

  Delivery Information
• • 93
  • 94

  2019 Envinate Taganan Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $46. 99

  Bottle

  $563.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  Táganan is both the name of a village on the very north eastern tip of Tenerife and a local term for steep slope. Envínate make two reds and two whites from this village; Táganan Tinto and Blanco, which come from multiple old parcels and two crus, parcelas Campanario and Margalagua. All the wines are field blends containing a dizzying array of obscure local varieties grown on very old bush vines in the steep volcanic soils overlooking the ocean.

  Other Reviews....
  The 2019 Táganan Tinto, the village red from Taganana, was produced with grapes from different vineyards and altitudes that range between 75 and 400 meters, from vines that are 50 to 150 years of age planted on old basalt soils. Both 2019 and 2020 were very dry and low yielding, a constant here since 2016; and they had to change the pruning of the old vines to try to adapt to these dry conditions, yet they still saw a 60% reduction in their yields. This is a blend of mostly Listán Negro and Negramoll but also some Mulata, Listán Gacho (pink/rosé) and Malvasía Rosada. The wine is only 12% alcohol and has notable freshness. It fermented with 30% to 70% of stems, depending on the plot, and always with indigenous yeasts, and it matured with fine lees in well-seasoned, neutral 228-liter oak barrels for one year. It might be marginally riper than the 2020 and a little more rustic. 3,000 bottles (down from 5,000) were produced. It was bottled in December 2020. Drink 2022 - 2026.
  94 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Feb 2022)

  Aromas of sweet tobacco, red fruit, candied citrus and cracked black pepper. Slightly earthy. Medium body with firm, fine tannins and a lovely, subtle and fruity finish. Drink or hold.
  93 Points
  JamesSuckling.com (October 2021)

  Delivery Information
• • 94

  2019 Envinate Benje Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $46. 99

  Bottle

  $563.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  Benje refers to an area high above the cloud cover on the western edge of the Tiede volcano. It’s an area that produces markedly different wines, from the sappy freshness of the coastal zones but still carries the hallmark lightness of all of Envínate’s wines. Benje Tinto is straight Listan Prieto, Benje Blanco is Listan Blanco. Both are grown on a mixture of old ash and red clay at over 1000m above sea level.

  Other Reviews....
  The red 2019 Benje was produced mostly with Listán Prieto with some Listán Blanco (4%) and Tintilla (2%) from different old vineyards in Santiago del Teide in the south of Tenerife at altitudes ranging between 900 and 1,000 meters, where sandy soils are covered by volcanic ash from the eruption of the Chinyero Vulcano in 1909. 2019 was extremely dry, and they had to reduce yields to avoid the blocking of the vines, so they only got 50% of a normal crop. The wine fermented by plot with indigenous yeasts and spontaneous malolactic and matured with fine lees in well-seasoned and neutral 228-liter oak barrels for eight months. They didn't use any added sulfur during the vinification or upbringing. It's light to medium-bodied with 12% alcohol. It's a textbook example: precise, expressive and characterful with the fruit, the peppercorn, the gunpowder and very tasty flavors with fine-grained tannins. 15,000 bottles and 150 magnums were produced. It was bottled in July 2020. Drink 2022 - 2026.
  94 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Feb 2022)

  Delivery Information
• • 98

  2018 Envinate Taganan Margalagua Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $69. 99

  Bottle

  $839.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  Táganan is both the name of a village on the very north eastern tip of Tenerife and a local term for steep slope. Envínate make two reds and two whites from this village; Táganan Tinto and Blanco, which come from multiple old parcels and two crus, parcelas Campanario and Margalagua. All the wines are field blends containing a dizzying array of obscure local varieties grown on very old bush vines in the steep volcanic soils overlooking the ocean.

  Other Reviews....
  2018 was a cooler year than 2017, and I had high expectations for the 2018 Táganan Parcela Margalagua. This vineyard has been vinified and bottled separately since 2012 because it has a very strong personality, not surprisingly, because it's one of the most fascinating and exceptional vineyards I've ever seen in my life. Since 2015, they understood this place is about elegance and depth rather than power. The varietal breakdown is something like 88% red grapes—Negramoll and Listán Negro—and 12% Listán Blanco, the local strain of Palomino, from reddish, very rocky volcanic soils. Like most of the reds here, it's only 12% alcohol. It fermented with 100% stems and indigenous yeasts, and the élevage was with the lees in used, neutral 228-liter oak barrels without racking or added sulfur. This is a translucent bright ruby color, and it's aromatic, floral, spicy and mineral, expressive and super fresh, because of the year and because they have new cooler vineyards. It has lots of notes of violets and lilies. The flavors are pungent, precise, clean, symmetric and very elegant, with refined tannins and a tasty, somewhat salty finish. This is the best wine they have produced to date. Truly word-class. 2,400 bottles were filled in January 2020.
  98 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Sept 2020)

  Delivery Information
• • 94

  2018 Envinate Benje Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $46. 99

  Bottle

  $563.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  Benje refers to an area high above the cloud cover on the western edge of the Tiede volcano. It’s an area that produces markedly different wines, from the sappy freshness of the coastal zones but still carries the hallmark lightness of all of Envínate’s wines. Benje Tinto is straight Listan Prieto, Benje Blanco is Listan Blanco. Both are grown on a mixture of old ash and red clay at over 1000m above sea level.

  Other Reviews....
  The red varietal Listán Prieto (a.k.a. País, Criolla Chica, Mission) 2018 Benje Tinto is from different vineyards in Santiago del Teide in the south of Tenerife at altitudes ranging between 900 and 1,000 meters. Half of the wine was kept in concrete tanks, and the rest was put in well-seasoned, neutral 228-liter oak barrels for a period of eight months. There are some flinty/gun powder aromas when you open the bottle, giving it a slightly reductive personality, but it's perhaps the volcanic character coming through. This is spicy, wild and characterful, with flowers and blood orange notes. It has a light to medium-bodied palate with bright flavors, a wine with lots of light, very fine tannins and a mixture of wild fruit and herbs with the volcanic soils. To me, this is the benchmark Listán Prieto/País together with the Santa Cruz de Coya from Roberto Henríquez from Chile. 16,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in July 2019.
  94 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Sept 2020)

  Delivery Information
• • 95

  2018 Envinate Migan Tinto

  Tenerife, SPAIN

  $69. 99

  Bottle

  $839.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12%

  Closure: Cork

  Envínate, which literally translates as “Wine Yourself,” is the project of four young passionate winemakers: Roberto Santana (based in the Canaries), Jose Martinez (Almansa), Laura Ramos (Murcia) and Alfonso Torrente (Ribeira Sacra). The four met while studying oenology in Alicante in 2005 and formed a collective based on a shared philosophy of wine and a desire to explore the ancient, Atlantic influenced terroirs of western Spain.

  In 2008, the group bought their first vineyard in Ribeira Sacra, then took control of vineyards on the north side of Tenerife, and followed with a single patch of Tinta Amarela in Extremadura. Finally, in 2012, the group began working with a site in Almansa, where Jose lives and works, planted to Garnacha Tintorera. In each region, they work old, previously abandoned vineyards, but importantly for a project with such spread, one of the team lives full time in each location, working the vineyards year round.

  Migan and Palo Blanco are both very old vine wines from the Valle de la Orotava zone, although they don’t bear the D.O. stamp. The old vines are trained in the Trezendo fashion: braiding new shoots over older ones until the vines begin to resemble old dreadlocks weaving over the landscape. The terrain is flatter than Táganan, more conducive to farming. Migan is two parcels of Listan Negro, both over 100 years old, while Palo Blanco is a single vineyard from the town of Los Realejos planted on black volcanic soils.

  Other Reviews....
  They started making wine from La Orotava a few years ago, and the red 2018 Migan is named with the old name of the village of La Perdoma. So, this is a village red from different plots in the village, including La Habanera and Tío Luis that are also bottled in small quantities plus some 40% from a vineyard called San Antonio that has more clay. The different plots fermented with 10% stems and matured separately in concrete, used 600-liter barrels and used 228-liter barrels. This is the textbook expression of the soils from La Orotava, showcased by notes of freshly cracked peppercorns, dry rose petals and wet pumice stone and volcanic ash. It's juicy and expressive, medium-bodied, with the power of fruit from La Orotava. From the 2018 vintage, I prefer La Habanera, which has incredible edge and minerality. But this has to be the finest vintage of Migan, only the third they have produced. 11,500 bottles produced. It was bottled in January 2020.
  95+ points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Sept 2020)

  Delivery Information
• • 95
  • 95

  2021 Envinate Lousas Doad Mencia

  Ribeira Sacra, SPAIN

  $81. 99

  Bottle

  $983.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 12.5%

  Closure: Cork

  Lousas is the name Envintate has given to their wines from Ribeira Sacra, translating to slate and a nod to the rock that marks these wines. Each of their Lousas releases are predominately Mencia, along with a smaller component of various indigenous varieties such as Merenzao, Caino, Garnacha Tintorerra, and Palomino among many others. Vina de Aldea is a blend of several plots from the Amandi, Quiroga, and Ribeiras do Sil subregions of Ribeira Sacra. Doad meanwhile hails from different terroirs throughout the Galician town of Doade, is Mencia dominant with the remaining 15% a field blend of various varieties. Rosende is sourced from a single vineyard from a village of the same name, and the soils here are similar to the Northern Rhone with granite crystals flecked through the sand. Finally Camino Novo is a single vineyard perched on the edge of the River Sil, where the vines are 80 years old and always produce some of the most profound Mencia in the area.

  Other Reviews....
  One of two new village reds in 2021 is the 2021 Doad Lousas, sourced from different terroirs in the village of Doade, Soutochao, Capeliños, Escalada, Meixeman, etc., on different soils. It vinified in open bins with 100% foot trodden full clusters and indigenous yeasts and matured in neutral barrels of different ages. It has a more austere personality; it feels a little more closed with some earthy tannins within the juicier and more fruit-driven style from the Doade village in the Sil Valley. 3,300 bottles were produced. Like all the 2021s, it was bottled at the end of November 2022. Drink 2023 - 2030.
  95 points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Nov 17, 2023)

  Fine, chalky nose with fresh brambly fruit, pomegranate, tile and white pepper. Lots of wild fruit on the palate with fine, fresh tannins and a long finish full of wild herbs and some cooked grapefruit. So drinkable now, why hold?
  95 points
  JamesSuckling.com

  Delivery Information
• • 89

  2018 Finca Enguera Tempranillo

  Valencia, SPAIN

  $15. 99

  Bottle

  $191.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2021-2024)

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  Certified organic. Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Dark cherry and liquorice aromas are followed by earth, dried herb and spice notes. Light in body the palate possesses spicy dark cherry and liquorice fruits over scorched earth and dried herbs. Juicy mouth feel with soft fine grained tannins and a savoury medium length aftertaste.
  Drink over the next 2-3 years.
  Alc. 13.5%

  Delivery Information
• • 88

  2010 Finca Munoz Barrel Aged Tempranillo

  Castilla, SPAIN

  $19. 99

  Bottle

  $239.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Stelvin

  Opaque dark red black colour with a dark purple red hue. Fragrant aromas of liquorice, ripe dark plum and dark chocolate overlay vanillin cedar, earth and spice. Medium bodied with a ripe round mouthfeel the palate has flavours of dark chocolate, subtle liquorice and dark plums over some spicy vanillin oak and earth. Finishes dry and chewy with chalky tannins making their presence felt. Aftertaste of dark chocolate, dark plum, earthy vanillin cedar and spice.
  Alc 14%

  Delivery Information
• • 93

  2014 Godelia Viernes Mencia

  Bierzo, SPAIN

  $24. 99

  Bottle

  $299.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2021-2022)

  ABV: 13.5%

  Closure: Cork

  Produced from 100% Mencia. Opaque dark red black core with a dark red hue. Nosing reveals a combination of black cherry and black raspberry aromatics infused with incense followed by lightly scorched earth and subtle spicy dried herb end notes. Medium bodied with a faint chewiness to the mouthfeel the palate has flavours of juicy black cherries and black raspberries intermixed with a trace of liquorice and old cedar underpinned by scorched earth and spice. Slightly chewy but ripe tannins. Aftertaste of spicy black cherries, liquorice, scorched earth and pepper.
  Cellar 4-5 years.
  Alc. 13.5%

  Delivery Information
• • 94

  2017 Grus de Alcohuaz Mezcla Tinta

  Elqui Valley, CHILE

  $49. 99

  Bottle

  $599.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 6 - 8 Years (2026-2028)

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Cork

  A blend of 60% Syrah, 13% Garnacha, 12% Petite Sirah and 15% Petit Verdot. Impenetrable inky black colour with a very deep black dark red hue. Intense blackberry, liquorice and black cherry aromas fill the nostrils followed by hints of tobacco, spicy cedar, scorched earth and dried herbs. Luscious and brightly fruited with rich liquorice, blackberry and black cherry flavours sitting over spicy vanilla, some stony characters, subtle dried herbs and pepper. Finishes very fresh with ripe chewy tannins and a focused medium to long aftertaste.
  Cellar 6-8 years.
  Alc. 14.5%

  Delivery Information
• • 91

  2014 Honoro Vera Garnacha

  SPAIN

  $19. 99

  Bottle

  $239.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 3 - 4 Years (2019-2020)

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Cork

  Opaque dark red black colour with a bright dark red hue. Aromas of ripe black cherries, black raspberries and liquorice are overlaid by some earthiness with subtle spicy incense end notes. Medium weighted with spicy dark raspberry flavours intermixed with some liquorice and vanillin cedar finishing spicy and peppery. Solid robust tannin structure imparts some slight chewiness. Aftertaste of spicy dark raspberries, liquorice, earth and vanillin cedar.
  Cellar 3-4 years.
  Alc 14.5%

  Delivery Information
• • 94

  2013 Honoro Vera Garnacha

  SPAIN

  $19. 99

  Bottle

  $239.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 3 - 4 Years (2019-2020)

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Cork

  Retasted...
  Totally opaque dark red black colour with a drak red hue. Intense black raspberry and black cherry aromas infused with liquorice and hints of incense are followed by scorched earth and spice. Quite full in body the palate is filled with ripe black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice flavours over a touch of scorched earth with a spicy finish. The succulent fruit complemented by a meaty textural feel towards the finish. Dry chewy tannins. Aftertaste of black raspberries, black cherries, liquorice and very spicy earth.
  Cellar 3-4 years.
  Alc 14%

  First tasted 11/03/2015
  Excellent depth displaying an opaque black purple core and a very dark purple hue. The nose offers up aromas of black cherries, black olives and subtle liquorice with a toasty overlay. Medium weight the palate features black cherry and liquorice flavours followed by some toasty oak and spice. Slightly dryish but fine grained tannins. Aftertaste of black cherries, liquorice and spicy toasted oak.
  Drink over the next 3-4 years.
  Alc 14%
  91 Points 

  Delivery Information
• • 91

  2018 iToma! Tinto Tempranillo Garnacha

  Navarra, SPAIN

  $19. 99

  Bottle

  $239.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Stelvin

  Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Ripe dark cherry and dark raspberry aromas intermingle with hints of liquorice, earthy graphite and faint dried herb notes. Juicy dark cherry and raspberry fruits decorate the mid weighted palate with notions of liquorice, inky earth and fresh herb infusions sitting underneath. Bright finish with polished tannins and a savoury ripe dark fruited aftertaste.
  Drink over the next 2-3 years.
  Alc. 14%

  Delivery Information
• • 90

  2016 Jordi Miro Ennak

  Terra Alta, SPAIN

  $23. 99

  Bottle

  $287.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2019-2021)

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Cork

  A blend of Grenache, Tempranillo, Merlot and Carignan. Totally opaque black dark red colour with a bright dark red hue. Raspberry jube, liquorice and plum aromas sit over light earth and spice. Fruity raspberry and plum juice flavours dominate the palate giving it a juicy feel with a touch of liquorice, earth and spice sitting beneath. Bright finish with polished soft tannins and a medium length aftertaste that comes across as a touch simple.
  Drink over the next 1-2 years.
  Alc. 14.5%

  Delivery Information
• • 94

  2017 Jordi Miro Garnatxa Negra Syrah

  Terra Alta, SPAIN

  $24. 99

  Bottle

  $299.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  Cellar: 3 - 4 Years (2022-2023)

  ABV: 14%

  Closure: Cork

  Very deep dark purple colour with black tinged edges and a bright purple hue. Perfumed aromatics of dark raspberries, cherries and liquorice laced with hints of violets and aromatic herbs blossom from the glass. Some scorched earth and spice notes ensue. Medium bodied the palate possesses juicy dark raspberry, ripe blueberry and liquorice flavours over inky earth, infusions of herbs and spice. Slightly dryish but fine grained tannins with good balanced acidity and a medium to long finish.
  Cellar 3-4 years.
  Alc. 14%

  Delivery Information
• • 91

  2016 La Purisima Estio Rosado

  Yecla, SPAIN

  $19. 99

  Bottle

  $239.88 Dozen

  Minimum 12 bottles

  Sold Out

  Cellar: Drink now (2017)

  ABV: 12.5%

  Closure: Stelvin

  A blend of 70% Monastrell, 20% Syrah and 10% Merlot. Translucent damask pink colour. Nosing reveals ripe red raspberry top notes which meld into some strawberry, pomegranate and spice aromas. Soft and round in its mouthfeel the palate features fruity raspberry, peach and pomegranate flavours followed by hints of wet stone and spice. Clean dry finish with an aftertaste of raspberries, pomegranate, ripe strawberries and subtle spices.
  Drink now.
  Alc. 12.5%

  Delivery Information
• • 95
  • 98
  • 95

  2015 La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 Tempranillo

  Rioja, SPAIN

  $180. 00

  Bottle

  $2160.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 14.5%

  Closure: Cork

  La Rioja Alta is a grand old estate founded (and still owned) by four wine growing families in 1890. The wines are produced from estate-grown, low yielding, old vineyards that are still produced in a very traditional way. The winery's commitment to quality extends to keeping all production of oak in-house, utilising their own cooperage on site.
  Gran Reserva 904 is produced from vines over 60-years old composed of 90% Tempranillo & 10% Graciano. Maturation takes place in 4-year-old American oak for 3 years, followed by a further 4 years in bottle prior to release.

  Other Reviews....
  Vivid ruby. Expansive red and blue fruit preserve, tobacco, potpourri, spice and botanical herb aromas, with vanilla and smoky mineral notes emerging as the wine opens up. Sappy, penetrating and gently chewy on the palate, offering vibrant, mineral- and spice-accented black raspberry, bitter cherry and rose pastille flavors that deepen and turn sweeter on the back half. Shows sharp focus and floral lift on the impressively long, youthfully tannic finish, which leaves behind notes of candied blue fruits and spicecake. Drink 2025 - 2036.
  95 Points
  Josh Raynolds - Antonio Galloni's Vinous

  Very impressive complexity and width on the nose, showing lots of savoriness with mushrooms, sandalwood, cedar, sweet spices, dried oranges and tobacco. Really even and juicy on the palate with fine and very present tannins. Juicy, creamy finish lasting a minute. Really elegant and layered. It goes on and on. A real Rioja Gran Reserva and I recommend buying a case! The first vintage that La Rioja Alta labelled ‘Seleccion Especial’. So appealing now, but this will evolve well in the next 20 years.
  98 Points
  Zekun Shuai - JamesSuckling.com

  They used the words subtlety, elegance, finesse, delicacy and silk to define the 2015 Gran Reserva 904 Selección Especial, a blend of 90% Tempranillo from their vineyards in Villalba, Briñas and Rodezno with 10% Graciano from the Montecillo vineyard in Fuenmayor that was picked 23 days later than the Tempranillo. The grapes were sorted optically for the first time, and they fermented in stainless steel where the wine went through malolactic too. The wine was put in barrel in January 2016—used American oak barrels built by their own coopers—where it matured for four years, during which time it was racked every six months. 2015 was a healthy vintage with balanced ripeness that delivered wines with good aging potential. They thought the wine needed a little more time in bottle to polish those tannins and have decided to hold it and release the wine around March 2023; it will be marked Selección Especial, the first 904 to do so, as they have very high hopes for this year and believe it's one of the finest vintages. They think it will develop the sophistication in the palate with a little more time and that is should achieve the silkiness that is the signature of 904. This is very 2015; I saw quite strong tannins in all the 2015 wines I tasted from Rioja Alta. There are some 150,000 bottles of this. Drink 2024 - 2035.
  95 Points
  Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

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