Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
It's interesting to see the 2011 and 2012 vintages of Las Gravas together as this 2011 starts with reductive aromas (energetic decanting is not out of the place) and also closed, with lactic notes and ripe fruit. With a very dark, concentrated and ripe full-bodied palate, it is serious and large offering lots of everything but in balanced proportion. It's a good interpretation of the vintage that manages not to come across as heavy, long or compact with stuffing. It has the harmony to evolve gracefully.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
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!