November 16, 2009

This has been a long-time favourite since Ebilio at my local bodega first introduced me to it. It has a decadent richness about it but slips down easy, just the way a winter wine should—though recent temperatures in Barcelona suggest you might want to wait for things to cool a little before cracking it open. Or not. It’s an extraordinary blend of Tempranillo, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from the single vineyard estate of Iñaki Nuñez, that costs way less than it should, at around €8.95 a bottle in Spain, and yet it’s the winner of several awards around the world including a gold medal at the prestigious Mondiales Des Vins, Canada in 2008.

In the glass it’s a deep garnet with beautiful sparkly ruby edges, lots of spiced chocolate on the nose with a hint of caramelised balsamic vinegar; just enough acidity to cut through any fatty layers in food. When you drink it you’ll find big, bold flavours, ripe bramble fruits and forest floor, and nicely structured tannins, followed by a long, nicely peppery finish.

There’s something quite celebratory about this wine. The last time I served it was with a slowly roasted, quite densely spiced leg of lamb (Moroccan style) with additional spices for dipping and that worked surprisingly well. Don’t save it for the beef; despite the richness it’s more versatile than it might first appear, but it's also personable enough to open with nothing more than good company. Salut!

November 16, 2009

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