This is a part of the Atlantis series managed by oenologist Raúl Acha, producing Atlantic wines from different DOs in Spain. Here, Godello has its day, with gobelet-trained vineyards upwards of 25 years old coming together with younger trellised vines from sloping granite and slate, 400–600 m high. The generous palate surges with creamy, oily lees-lined flow, along with pear, yellow apple, melon and a lift of greengage and bright lemon. Moderate acidity, massive mouth-filling, this is a fuller, oak-free white capable of handling fresh halibut or sablefish with ease.
This fruity, youthful Tempranillo from La Mancha carries bright raspberry and plum, spiced with medicinal black-cherry notes. The 2 months in barrel is overly evident — strident wood grain rules the mouthfeel, though tannins are sanded pretty smooth. Simple, but authentically La Mancha; solid choice for barbecue ribs or chops.
Intriguingly complex nose encompasses developed dark fruit, sandalwood, cinnamon and cigar-box scent. Rounded dark berry and fine spice flavours are enveloped in velvety tannins with brisk acidity and a splash of dark chocolate. Although quite developed, this wine will integrate more harmoniously over the next 3+ years.
Remarkable value here. Deep ruby-purple in colour with a spicy nose of sandalwood, cedar and red berries; medium-bodied, dry and firmly structured with coffee bean and chocolate notes on the finish.
An outstanding value, this fine Rioja shows the impact of aging in new oak barrels, with spicy, warmly ripe perfumed berry-fruit and subtle notes of vanilla oak on the nose. Generously ripe berry fruit in the mouth, led by bright raspberry, with deftly balanced acidity, lightly firm tannins, and a splash of mocha; culminates with fine fruit and deftly integrated oak on the long finish.
Dark ruby. Intense notes of ripe red and black berries, subtle oak and overall nicely fresh. Supple in its attack, the refined fruity taste largely dominates the oak at this stage. Full bodied, well balanced, ripe and elegant mid-palate. Intense finish of great length, tight without any graininess. Simply beautiful and a great value that will last 20 years.
From Jumilla, Spain’s hotbed of value, comes this singular blend of Muscat and Chardonnay. Dry; there is great texture and ripe fruit which inundates the senses. Orange blossom, banana, pineapple, honey, red and delicious apple and spice are all in play. It is long-lasting with just the right pinch of acidity. Fish tacos or Szechuan-inspired dishes are made for this wine.