SPAIN - Palacios Remondo La Montesa

Rioja is synonymous with tempranillo but garnacha (grenache) is also an important part of this premium DOC in northern Spain.

Importer Scott Wasley notes: ' La Montesa is the Palacios’ name for the shovel-nosed hill-slope above the town of Alfaro from which their main wines are selected. Most exciting, la Montesa has been rebuilt as a pure mountain garnacha, sporting an utterly appropriate burgundy bottle. The wine is aged 12 months (Crianza) in new to 4 year-old barriques.'

Michele's notes: These exciting developments with garnacha are given full expression here as there is only a small amount of tempranillo in the blend.  Meaty/cherry/raspberry/chocolate initially, and with air it becomes very perfumed. The fruit comes through powerfully on the palate, complemented by notes of licorice, savoury/chalky tannins and juicy acidity.