Finca Marisanchez Roble (2007)

This very old and famous vineyard in Valdepenas was originally and still is a shooting lodge. It is family owned and run bodegas. The grapes are hand-picked at dawn in late August to early September from 50 year-old vines that yield only 1 kilo of grapes per vine. Cooled maceration and temperature-controlled alcoholic fermentation takes place over 22 days at 28°C, followed by malolactic fermentation in American and French new oak barrels for 6 months ageing. Bottle ageing for further 6 months before leaving the cellar.

Intense and lively cherry red colour with very bluish and violet undertones. Complex nose lots of blackcurrant and blueberry fruits. Sweet ripe and concentrated. Jammy, spicy and balsamic fragrance with a touch of pepper, eucalyptus and rockrose. Notes of vanilla and cocoa are present underneath. It's potent and lustful in the mouth, with a velvety texture and a very long and persisting fruity finish.

Mediterranean recipes, grilled and roasted red meats, smoked fish, quail, partridge and turkey in rich creamy sauces. Rich bean stews, pates and mature cheeses. Chinese and oriental food.

• Decanter World Wine Awards (UK) 2006 – Gold Medal

• Decanter World Wine Awards (UK) 2005 – Bronze Medal

• Challenge International du Vin (France) 2004 – Bronze Medal

• Concours Mondial de Bruxelles (Belgium) 2003 – Gold Medal

• Concours Vinalies International (France) 2003 – Gold Medal