"The Elefante range doesn’t usually include a garnacha / grenache, but when this wine appeared on the tasting bench – it jumped out as irresistible. Not difficult to see why. If you like the mainstay of Australian grenache, you will like this Spanish version. Sweet fruit, minerally tannin, dry finish. Gunsmoke. Obviously accessible but the fruit has character and class. Black and red licorice. Beautiful freshness. Energetic wine from go to whoa. You just want to drink it. Under $15? Excellent buying." - Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front.
93% Garnacha (Grenache), 7% Shiraz
Very expressive and perfumed with juicy red-berried fruit joined by red licorice and sweet smoky spice. The palate is medium bodied and vibrant with decadent layers of ripe cranberry and red berry fruit. Savoury spice and fresh acidity provide definition to the finish. A pure drinkers wine that offers a truly rewarding experience and incredible value. Drink now or cellar for up to five years.
The vast, high and dry plains of Castilla la Mancha comprise over 50% of Spain’s vineyards. The ancient soils and high altitude ensures the richly flavoured fruit maintains structure and tannin. Vineyards planted on the slopes of mountain ranges in the north and north east add a degree of elegance to the wines.
A long and cool maceration for three days was followed by de-stemming and fermentation in stainless steel utilising a mix of small and large bins. Following fermentation through to dry the wine was matured primarily in stainless steel with a component receiving six months in mature large format french and american oak barrels.
The vintage was extremely dry and relatively warm throughout Spain. Good water reserves and sub-soil moisture meant that the vines weathered the conditions well although relieving September rains were most welcome. The rain slowed down an extremely early vintage, allowing the grapes to reach good flavour maturity. The vintage will be categorised by low yields and intense flavours.
Don't Pay: $18.00
WBW Rating: 93/100
Closure: Stelvin
Region: Castilla La Mancha, Spain
