"The Bellum cuvees are a joint project between the Candela family that owns Barahonda and importer Patrick Mata. The wines are meant to showcase the tremendous upside potential of Yecla's Mourvedre vineyards. The 2003 Bellum Providencia (an 800-case cuvee of 100% old vine Mourvedre) spent ten months in both French and American oak. It brings to mind what a Bandol might taste like if you took away all the rusticity, under-ripeness, and brett. A dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by sumptuously pure aromas of roasted meats, blueberries, black raspberries, and cherries. Full-bodied, with loads of structure, sweet tannin, impressive density as well as purity, and a 40+ second finish, this is an amazing effort. Moreover, its price makes it one of the wine steals of the century. It should drink well for 4-5 years. This estate is one of the top discoveries of all my tastings."
-Wine Advocate