2001 Bodegas Estefania Tilenus Envejecido en Roble Bierzo

[dananne]

Made from 70+ year old Mencia grapes, it spends 7 months in younger American oak.

This was an interesting wine that needed some air to begin showing itself. Deep purple-red in color, initially with a closed-down nose of grape and oak. Later picked up some raspberry jam aromas. Like flavors of grape and raspberry mixed and mingled with substantial earthiness and minerality. Good, clean acidity. Finish shows some peppery spiciness, again with oak influences. This is not a New World, International-Style wine. We consumed it as a stand-alone, but it would be good with grilled or braised meats this time of year or in early fall. Alc. 13.5%, Paid $15 for it at a local wine shop. FWIW, WA 90.