It’s been a little while since a Spanish Monastrell has made an appearance on Mourvèdre Monday. This one comes from Sierra Salinas in the Alicante region focused on the Monastrell grape.
Producer: Bodegas Sierra Salinas
Grapes: Primarily Monastrell (the Spanish name for Mourvèdre), with Garnacha Tintorera (which is not Garnacha/Grenache, but the same as Alicante Bouchet), Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Appellation: Alicante (D.O., Spain)
Vineyards: 10-20 year old vines in limestone and clay soil at 600 meters
Vintage: 2006
Winemaking: 4 months in French oak (% new unknown)
Alcohol: 14%
Price: About $10
My tasting notes: The nose has a prominent dustiness coating the blueberry and chocolate notes. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and starts off a bit rustic, but smoothes out. It features raspberry and blueberry flavors with a touch of minerality and a dry, dusty finish.
Overall impression: Dominique Roujou De Boubee, who is a consultant for Sierra Salinas and has commented here a few times, called this an “easy wine”. I agree. It is not a complex, “thinking” wine, but a pleasant and enjoyable bottle nonetheless. Worth checking out at this price. B-
Free association:
More info:
Big pub scores: 90 points from Parker and 88 points from Tanzer.
Lots of ratings at CellarTracker (avg: 87)
Imported by Eric Solomon.
A profile of the winery (including a review of this bottle) is at CataVino.