Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The pure Garnacha (but not explicitly stated on the label) 2021 El Molar has more finesse and a paler color than the Monastrell wine. It feels very Mediterranean, aromatic and showy, with good ripeness, varietal, with notes of cherries in liqueur, more Châteauneuf than any of the previous vintages with intense notes of garrigue that keep growing in the glass. It has aromas of Mediterranean herbs and an intense chalky sensation in the palate. It has great balance. It matured in larger and neutral barrels and 5,000-liter oak foudres.
Grenache thrives in any warm, Mediterranean climate where ample sunlight allows its clusters to achieve full phenolic ripeness. While Grenache's birthplace is Spain (there called Garnacha), today it is more recognized as the key player in the red blends of the Southern Rhône, namely Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône and its villages. Somm Secret—The Italian island of Sardinia produces bold, rustic, single varietal Grenache (there called Cannonau). California, Washington and Australia have achieved found success with Grenache, both flying solo and in blends.
Famous for the robust and earthy, black-fruit dominated, Monastrell (known as Mourvedre in France), Jumilla is an arid and hot region in southeastern Spain. Its vine yields tend to be torturously low but this can create wines of exceptional intensity and flavor. Quality combined with accessible price points give the region great recognition on international markets far and wide.
The reds from Jumilla are heady and spicy, packed with fruit and show aromas of dried licorice and herbs. If you like Syrah, Grenache or Pinot noir, a red wine from Jumilla would be a perfect next choice!