The 2010 Sotorrondero in a blend of 75% Garnacha from younger vines, though still 40-50 years old, and 25% Syrah from 12-year-old vines. The fermentation takes place in steel with malolactic in 300 or 500-liter barrels. It has a fresh, lifted bouquet of dark cherry, crushed strawberry and dark chocolate that is well defined and focused. The palate has a dash of white pepper on the entry as well as layers of chocolate-tinged dark berry fruit with a keen thread of acidity, although it finishes just a little abruptly. Nevertheless, this is a highly satisfying, full-bodied wine. Drink now-2017.
If you are seeking Grenache that is understated, complex, full of character and honest without resorting to new oak or ostentation, then look no further than the exquisite and rather brilliant wines of Bodegas Jimenez-Landi, which have rightly been lauded by my predecessors in previous issues. I stand accused of being even more ecstatic about these wines that were riveting earlier this year: wines that stimulate the intellect as much as the senses.
Importer: Eric Solomon Selections, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565; and Indigo Wine www.indigowine.com in the UK.