772 | Wine | Spain, 91 to 95, 2011

"Inky purple. Ripe black raspberry and cherry liqueur scents are brightened by zesty pepper and allspice nuances. Plush and sweet, with powerful cherry and red berry compote flavors given lift by juicy acidity. Gains flesh and depth on the impressively long, spicy finish, which is given shape by fine-grained tannins."

"It reveals a deep ruby/purple color as well as copious notes of creme de cassis intermixed with hints of wood smoke and charcoal. Medium to full-bodied, juicy, succulent and sensual, it should drink nicely for 3-4 years." -Robert Parker

"Another stunning value from Yecla, the 2011 Vinos Sin Ley Monastrell (100% Mourvedre from organic vineyards) possesses a dense purple color as well as a big, sweet bouquet of blueberries, blackberries, and chalky, earthy soil, and a heady, rich, full-bodied finish. It combines elegance with richness despite the fact that this area is known more for the rusticity of its wines than their finesse." -Robert Parker

"An excellent bargain, this 100% Tempranillo (80-100-year old vines) was aged completely in stainless steel. Patrick Mata told me that the village from which it emerges has only 95 residents, all of whom are grape farmers! This may be the “bargain of the year” in my tastings. It boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as copious notes of black cherry jam, licorice, blackberries and subtle hints of earth, pepper and meat. Drink this medium to full-bodied, rich, layered red over the next 2-3 years." -Robert Parker

"Pale gold. Suave, floral-accented aromas of candied orchard fruits, orange zest, white flowers and brioche. Pliant and broad on entry, then tighter in the middle, offering gently sweet pear and citrus fruit flavors and a touch of vanilla. Finishes sappy and very long, with lingering spiciness and a hint of anise. This wine delivers outstanding value."

"The 2011 Barahonda Sin-Madera (100% Monastrell aged in stainless steel) offers abundant blueberry, black raspberry and cherry fruit notes intermixed with hints of crushed rocks, tobacco leaf, pepper and meat. This intense, medium to full-bodied, amazing wine is bursting with fruit. It, too, should drink well for 2-3 years, perhaps longer given Monastrell’s oxidative, resistant personality."

"Pale gold. High-pitched aromas of candied orange, honeysuckle, minerals and candied ginger, along with an exotic note of curry powder. Bright, focused and concentrated, showing impressive clarity to its chalk-accented orange zest, vanilla and quince flavors. A note of toasty lees builds with air and adds depth to the long, incisive, mineral-dominated finish."

"Intensely perfumed bouquet of lime zest, lemongrass, talc, white pepper and chamomile. Sappy orchard fruit and melon flavors are braced by tangy citrus fruits and dusty minerals, with a touch of tropical fruits emerging on the back half. Dry, focused and deeply fruity, finishing with impressive clarity and mineral cut."

"Bright purple. Aromas and flavors of ripe red berries, cola and spicecake, with a deeper note of licorice emerging with air. Lush and seamless, with very good finishing breadth and spicy persistence. Shows plenty of upfront appeal but this wine has the concentration and balance to reward at least mid-term aging."