2012 Solanera Vinas Viejas
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Tasting notes
70% Monastrell, 15% Cabernet, 15% Garnacha. 10 months in oak. Mid to deep garnet. Ripe biscuit-like sweetness with some dried-fruit notes, especially fig. Bottle accidentally chilled but I think this may help with the freshness. That same dried-fig flavour on the palate, rounded but thick tannins. Lots of gratifying flavour but a bit soupy in texture. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
70% Monastrell with Cabernet Sauvignon and Garnacha Tintorera. Toasty and chock full of flavour, albeit of a slightly ersatz kind. Those barrels it was aged for 10 months in, what were they exactly? Not for purists, but for those who value oomph, and don’t mind a bit of clove, this is great! Drying finish. (JR)
Even more remarkable is the 2012 Solanera Vinas Viejas, a blend of 70% Mourvedre, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Grenache aged 10 months in a combination of French and American oak. A custom cuvee that is only available through importer Eric Solomon, this amazing red wine displays notes of lead pencil shavings, acacia flowers, black raspberries, blueberries and black currants. This full-bodied, intense 2012 tastes like it should cost three to five times as much. Full-bodied, stunningly pure and textured, it should last for 4-5 years, possibly longer. These two remarkable cuvees have been reviewed favorably in the past, but the 2012s seem to ratchet up the quality to even more impressive levels. Importer: European Cellars, Eric Solomon, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565 ; www.europeancellars.com
Even more remarkable is the 2012 Solanera Vinas Viejas, a blend of 70% Mourvedre, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Grenache aged 10 months in a combination of French and American oak. A custom cuvee that is only available through importer Eric Solomon, this amazing red wine displays notes of lead pencil shavings, acacia flowers, black raspberries, blueberries and black currants. This full-bodied, intense 2012 tastes like it should cost three to five times as much. Full-bodied, stunningly pure and textured, it should last for 4-5 years, possibly longer. Nov 2013, www.robertparker.com