Abacela Claret

Took a flyer on this one, buying it this week from a local shop that was clearing out wines past their prime. It did not disappoint! While the primary flavours have passed, there is still an earthy cherry profile and hints of cocoa, tobacco and tar. Balanced, the wine’s acidity was still very present and the tannins were faded but detectable.

Rich dark fruit nose, sun-dried tomato, dark chocolate and cedar. Some hints of old leaves in there too. Smells pretty good. Medium-to-full bodied. Ripe berry flavors, some plum fruit, dark chocloate, great acidity, relaxed, late-hitting tannin. Decently balanced, with a relaxed approach that doesn't overpower your meal. Fantastic with my ribeye steak. Barely showing age, but still rather primary. Drinking well now but will get more interesting as time goes on. 89+

Overwhelmed by funk/barnyard/mushroom, eeesh.

This was a great Claret that held up well over two nights. Cassis, dark fruits and coffee. On the second night just a touch of prune snuck in. Fine, well integrated tannins.

Soft on the nose, with remarkable silky texture, densely purple hue. Juicy berry pie, notes of spice, medium finish. Highly drinkable now.