Deep ruby colored with slight staining and a high viscosity (15% ABV).  The nose has medium (-) intensity aromas of black cherry, black raspberry, black licorice, grape bubble gum (!), coffee, vanilla, baking spice, blueberry compote and mint.  The palate is dry with medium acidity, a full body and medium (+) tannins. The fruit quality is very good and I get layers of dark red fruit intertwined with oak nuance.  Thankfully the bubble gum is nowhere to be found, an interesting note on the nose tho.  The texture of the tannins is sublime- slightly grippy yet silky making for a delightful mouthfeel that lasts medium length.  A well-balanced blend of Garnacha and Carignena that gets 92 points from me.  I paid $18 for this beaut and give it 5 stars.  My pairing is rack of Lamb.  Drink till 2030, Salut….

Inky purple in the glass this blend of 62% Carinyena & 38% Garnacha has got slow moving legs (14.5% ABV).  The nose is stunning.  Intense aromas of toffee, coffee, and chocolate interlaced with ripe blueberry, blackberry, plums, black cherry, mint and cassis- there is a decadent richness about this wine that I get right off the bat.  The palate is dry with medium (+) acidity and medium tannins that are fine-grained.  Flavors of dark, bold fruits with loads of French oak nuance make for a delicious flavor profile.  Whilst the nose is driven by the toffee/coffee etc, the palate is opposite.  Layers of ripe fruit are now in charge, followed by the toffee, caramel, mint and medicinal notes from the barrels.  The finish is long and soft.  Stunning stuff that got up to 96 points from the pros.  I would have to agree.  The aging capacity of this well structured, full bodied wine is good, say till 2035.  You can find it for under $40 making it a monster 5 star effort.  I’m simmering a pot of rich, hearty goat stew with some creamy truffle infused acorn squash pureé.  Can’t wait.  Salut….