Bodegas Zabrin 2005

Bodegas Zabrin 2005
Ateca

It is no secret that I have a close affinity with Spanish wine. As a wine merchant, I am always seeking out the best values; and this frequently brings me to Spanish old vine grenache. The 2005 Bodegas Zabrin Ateca is one of the most brilliant examples of a grenache that I have recently tasted.

Here is the latest Wine Advocate review:

“Bodegas Zabrin is a new project for importer Jorge Ordonez and the Gil family of Jumilla (whose value-priced wines have consistently received raves in this publication). The 2005 Ateca is a 100% Grenache produced from the estate’s oldest vineyard (80-100 years). It boasts pure raspberry liqueur notes interwoven with sweet cherry, pepper, licorice, and spice characteristics. This stunning 2005 can be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years.”

90 points, Wine Advocate

At the risk of reiterating the Wine Advocate’s tasting notes, the two most salient characteristics of this wine are the tremendous raspberry kirsch fruit and the peppery finish. It is drinking well now and should have a cellar potential of at least three years. Moreover, this big style grenache would pair nicely with Steak au Poivre.