The 2008 Lorca Seleccion is a blend of 70% Monastrell and 30% Syrah with malolactic fermentation in barrel and aging for 16 months in new French and Hungarian oak. A glass-coating purple/black color, it gives up a brooding bouquet of mineral, game, Asian spices, violets, and blueberry. Dense, layered, and full-flaored, it will evolve for 1-2 years and drink well through 2020. The DO of Bullas has the highest elevation Monastrell vines in Spain, more so than neighboring Jumilla, providing a bigger contrast in daytime vs. nighttime temperatures. Importer: Tom George, Frontier Wines, Dover, NJ; Tel. (973) 328-4500

The 2006 Lorca Seleccion is composed of 70% Monastrell and 30% Shiraz with the same elevage as the Crianza. It exhibits a similar aromatic and flavor profile and should provide pleasure over the next six years. Bodegas del Rosario’s entry-level Monastrell is a super value noted at the end of this report. Importer: Tom George, Frontier Wine Imports, Dover, NJ; tel. (973) 328-4500