50% Garnacha 40% Mazuelo 10% Syrah. The back of the bottle says that this will be, “definitively the best wine you have tasted from Montsant.” While I cannot agree with that, the 92 points rating on the front is some indication of what’s inside the bottle. A nice, tough Montsant with dark fruits like currant and blackberry, with some leather and rose petals on the nose. It’s a good drinking wine with enough tannin to stand up to hearty foods like roasted pork and beef. I picked this bottle up at (I think) the Whole Foods on P Street for about $16. It made an impression and I will drink it again, though it definitely is NOT the best Montsant I’ve had. If you take this one to a party or to a friend’s house for dinner, it will get compliments from anyone who enjoys big tough reds.
- Rating: Impressive
- Name: Zerran Tinto 2011
- Winery: Zerran
- Region: Montsant
- Country: Spain
- Varietals: 50% Garnacha, 40% Mazuelo, 10% Syrah
- Price: $16
- Where to Buy: Whole Foods, 1440 P St NW, Washington, DC 20005
A quintessential Rioja with typical flavors, nice peppery finish and dark fruit. Very solid pick for taking to a friend’s dinner or any time you need a versatile red. A good wine that won’t cover the food, knock your socks completely off, or break the bank. Pairs well with red meats, grilled foods, and hearty fish or seafood dishes (such as paella). I don’t buy it by the case, but I usually keep a bottle lying around in my arsenal. Easily found for $15.
Crisp nose of flint and minerals, faint rubber and grass. Hits the tongue with great acid and the mouth-feel of slippery honey. Does not overpower the palate with fruit; you know you’re drinking a wine (not eating a fruit basket) and one that’s lovely and rewarding. Flavors of stone, greens, citrus, and untanned leather.
Posto Novo 