The 2011 Silvano Garcia Dulce Monastrell has 215 grams of residual sugar and 15.5% alcohol. It’s produced from 40-year-old Monastrell grapes and has a nose of damsons, very ripe prunes, some olives and it’s round and dense in the palate. It could do with a little more freshness 12,000 bottles are produced. Drink 2013-2016. Created in 1925, this is a family operation with 50 hectares of its own vineyards. They also source grapes from a further 200 hectares belonging to small suppliers to produce a total of 180,000 bottles per year. Importer: Grapes of Spain, Lorton, VA; www.grapesofspain.com

There are few points of reference for this hugely intense sweet Monastrell. It’s deep and purple, with concentrated, fresh raisin aromas, licorice and berry syrup. Entirely rich and unctuous, with caramel, toffee and reduced berry flavors. Like P.X. but red; serve with chocolate and/or a smooth, potent cheese.——M.S.(2/1/2011)—— 89