El Nido Clio 2002 (Jumilla, Spain)

Deep red.

Nose initially dominated by alcohol and tarry/coconutty oak.

Round and creamy in the mouth, with alcohol again intruding and obliterating mid-palate flavor. Acid/tannin synergy takes care of any remaining flavor interest. I didn't like a bottle a year ago either.

70% Monastrell/30% Cabernet Sauvignon


Day 2 - a bit better, but still spiky. The alcohol may fold in with several more years in the bottle. Monster food would help (lamb, garlic and roasted potatoes).


$36