'04 Carchelo Monastrell Jumilla

[Innkeeper]

2004 Carchelo, Monastrell, Jumilla ($7.95 NH Liq Store). Alcohol level: 13.5%. The wines we’ve had from this producer over the years that Drew, we, and others have reported on have been excellent, but all blends. This is the first “varietal” that we have had from them, and we love it!

An inky dark color meets the eye. Black fruit aromas meet the nose. This and more meet the tongue tip including a floral taste reminiscent of rose water. A complexity that includes sweet jammy black fruit, spices and black pepper crosses the palate, and the finish goes for a lap or three. This is an $8 wine!? Don't let them find Jumilla. The tag in it said it was a great late fall wine and we agree.

We matched it with couscous with garbanzos, lamb, chicken, and spices; along with a package of spinach on the side. Wonderful for a Tuesday Advent meal.