Alto de la Hoya, Monastrell, Jumilla 2006

Opaque purple/red.

Low-toned nose of dried fig/date, melted chocolate and spices. Sumptuous, almost port-like

Round, sweet palate-impression - meat/earth/black fruit confection. Slightly flat in the finish, with long finishing flavor of date/fig. Lots of spice action too.


Synthetic cork, which probably contributes to the oxidative character of the wine. Although this is an interesting point. These types of Monastrell (inexpensive, large volume, quality American importers) seem to be built for consumption 2-3 years from vintage date. Monastrell is highly resistant to oxidation. Low sulfur/synthetic cork for immediate appeal?

Hard to argue - this is very tasty and deep. And it beats the crap out of generic stuff from the US at this $$.

$12