Finca Sandoval 2009

Manchuela, Spain

Finca Sandoval is a beautiful Spanish red blend from the old wine region of Manchuela in east-central Spain, just east of La Mancha. Finca Sandoval is a relatively new venture of well-known Spanish journalist Victor La Serna, with 26 acres of vineyards in the long-forgotten Manchuela appellation. Neal Martin for Wine Advocate rated this 2009 vintage 93 points! "The 2009 Finca Sandoval is a blend of 77% Syrah, 13% Monastrell and 10% Bobal raised in 50% new oak (the same ratio of French and American as before). The new wood lends it modern flair, with vanilla-tinged, ripe black cherry fruit as well as hints of violet emerging with time in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied, very well-balanced with fine, fleshy tannins. The oak is nicely judged here, just lending it a modern sheen without dominating the character or typicite of the wine. Excellent."

Finca Sandoval is dense ruby-purple in color showing intense aromas of cherry, blackberry, cassis, licorice, mocha and spice. Bold on the palate with full body and velvety tannins, the wine offers flavors of dark berries, chocolate, meat, minerals and toasted oak. Beautifully balanced to enjoy now and over the next 8-10 years. The finish is long and full, with chewy tannins. Bottled unfiltered.

Enjoy Finca Sandoval with roast leg of lamb, venison, paella and aged cheeses.