83 2007 Luzon Jumilla 5/15/09 ($9)
65% Monastrell 35% Syrah 14% alc
Color: Medium purple raspberry. (2.5) Bouquet: Tart black raspberry with black licorice and rustic, earthy mineral/acidity. A touch of sulfur too. (2.5) Body: Very good acidity with sufficient fruit, but could use more to smooth out the acid. Still coats somewhat. A solid middleweight. (2.5) Flavor: Good acidity and fruit, but bitter, weedy flavors mar its overall appeal. (2.0) Finish: Parallels flavor. (2.0)
Overall: Shows good body, acidity and fruit, but has bitter licorice and some weedy/scallion flavors. Has the body and richness to stand up to food, which will also hide its flaws. Flavor and finish do improve somewhat with extended breathing. Too rustic for me. (11.5)