Miguel Torres Reserva Real 2009

The 2009 Reserva Real is a limited production of 250 cases, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from the 'Les Arnes' vineyard on the Agulladolc Estate, planted in 1981. It is aged in French oak for 18 months. It has a gorgeous, sensual bouquet of dark cherries, blueberry, crushed stone and violet that is very well-defined. The palate is medium-bodied with a spicy, black pepper tinged entry. It has bold, firm tannins, with layers of ripe, toasty dark fruit laced with white pepper and a touch of balsamic. Although, for me, its Mediterranean influence is too strong to compare it with Bordeaux, it has the substance to age with style. Drink 2016-2025+. Score - 92. (Neal Martin, erobertparker.com, April 2012)