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Wow! That was a mouthful to pronounce wasn't it? This little beauty was give 90 points by Parker and worth every point! It is a blend of 70% Garnacha and 30% Monastrell with a nose of dark cherries and blackberry that you would associate with a much more expensive wine. The palate is on the medium side with just enough complexity and nuances of French oak to make you yearn for more, and you can't beat the price!
Let's talk a little about where this wine came from.
Almansa is the easternmost wine region (and one of the smallest) in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain. It was the territory between the Moorish and Christian kingdoms of Aragon and Castilla.
Grapes has taken place here continuously since the 16th Century. The dry, hot and arid conditions of the vast central Iberian plateau also prevail in Almansa, and the overall climate can be considered to be extreme. Despite its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, the climate is strongly continental, with high temperatures throughout the growing season, although the sea does lessen the harsh conditions more than in other parts of the area.
The soils are generally poor and stony, with a healthy lime component, which critically retains water effectively. With less than 14 inches of rain falling each year, this is essential.
Overall, these conditions favor the production of red wine, and only red-wine varieties are preferrred, according to the local Consejo Regulador, although some white varieties are authorized or legal.
The dominant grape variety in Almansa is the regional specialty Monastrell, Garnacha and Tintore. These grapes produces deep-colored wines with plenty of dark-fruit characters. Because of their rich color, these wines have been popular as blending agents, although they are now being appreciated for their individual qualities.
The powerful reds of Almansa have been growing in reputation and are certainly beginning to make a name for themselves. Find this wine and enjoy! You won't be disappointed! Cheers!
