Sadly, this was badly corked. A shame as it was my last bottle.
Sadly, this was horribly corked (TCA). The note is included to see if this is a random episode or something others should be aware of.
I used to drink a lot of this wine and earlier vintages back in the day. Its been a while, but when a friend popped the cork, it was fun. Still a great wine. Ruby in color. The nose is earthy with slight barnyard. Cherries, slight dill, and slighter vanilla. On the palate, cherry fruit with a bit of cherry cough drops. Good acidity. Very food friendly. Softer texture. Nice depth. Seems to be drinking at or near peak but no hurry.
Bought on release and well stored. On release, this was a very modern take on Tempranillo. At age 22, it still drinks that way although it has calmed down and matured quite a bit since then. Still drinking youthfully. Deep garnet in color, mostly opaque and bright. The nose has black cherries with an earthy notes. With air, more barnyard emerges (Brettanomyces) although not strong. Full bodied. Tannins are resolved. On the palate, raspberries with black cherries and some kirsch. A bit of char as well. Long, slightly drying finish. Complex and deep, this won't get better but shou