Produced in the Utiel-Requena appellation, the 2011 Cueva de la Culpa is a blend of 60% Bobal and 40% Merlot from older vines that is fermented separately then blended after malolactic fermentation and aged in new oak barrels for 14 months. The new oak is very noticeable in the nose with smoky aromas, spices (vanilla, clove, nutmeg) and some toast and graphite-like aromas showing over the black fruit in the background. The palate is surprisingly fresh, has good acidity and even though there are plenty of oak-related flavors there are also sour cherries and plums coming through to give it a commercial, approachable profile. 20,000 bottles produced.