Olivares Altos de la Hoya Monastrell 2012

Deep ruby. Smoky, deeply pitched dark berry compote, licorice and bitter chocolate scents show very good clarity, picking up a sexy floral note with aeration. Stains the palate with intense black and blue fruit flavors, with a lavender pastille quality emerging on the back half. At once rich and energetic on the finish, which clings with excellent tenacity and smooth tannins. A remarkable value, from a country known for delivering bang for the buck. Score - 91. (Josh Raynolds, vinousmedia.com, Sept. 2014)