A firm favourite at Vino Fino. This hearty, silky red is produced by Scottish MW and wine-maker, Norrel Robertson, utilizing old vine fruit sourced from various vineyards around the region of Calatayud (near Zaragoza in the north of Spain). Small plots of old bush vines are scattered throughout the hillsides of the region and by working with the growers, Norrel is able to access this great resource.
This is made in a style (as the name suggests) similar to Chateauneuf du Pape with a GSM blend aged for around 5 months in a mix of French and American oak. The result is an intensely dark wine displaying red and black berry fruits, dried herb, dark chocolate flavours on a rich, enveloping, quite dense palate. Already drinking well, this will age for a few more years yet.
5 Stars & 93/100 Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, May 2022 (2020 Vintage)
"Youthfully charming and seductively complex with dark berry, olive, cured meat and violet aromas, it's beautifully weighted on the palate delivering ripe fruit intensity with plump mouthfeel and fine polished tannins, finishing delightfully savoury and delectable. At its best: now to 2028."
Rated Excellent & 93/100 Cameron Douglas MS, June 2022 (2020 Vintage)
"Very expressive and fruity bouquet with layers of red berries and spice, there’s a light meaty quality, a core of mineral with a stony granite quality then a layer of dried herb and wood spices. A firm youthful texture with tannins and acidity driving the mouthfeel. Flavours of cranberry and spiced plum, boysenberry and macerated cherries then vanilla and mineral returns. A decent weight with medium+ complexity and loads of charm. Best drinking from 2023 through 2027+."
93/100 Bob Campbell MW, The Real Review, May 2022 (2020 Vintage)
"Predominantly grenache with other varieties. Dense, rich, weighty red that is a pleasure to taste. Rustic meets royalty. A great match with hearty stews and casseroles. Excellent value at this price. Drink 2022–2030."