Descendientes de J. Palacios Pétalos del Bierzo 2010

Bierzo, SpainDescendientes de J. Palacios Petalos is a gorgeous red wine gem from the Bierzo region, perched in the northwest corner of Spain. The legend of Spanish winemaker Alvaro Palacios continues to grow! His latest project features another rising star--the obscure Menca grape. Here ancient Menca vineyards emerge from the steepest of hillsides, their roots deeply set into unique, mineral-laden soils. Under the skilled hands of Palacios and his cousin, Ricardo Perez Palacios, the forgotten black grape (believed by some to be a cousin of Cabernet Franc) has achieved new heights. The 60- to 100-year-old vines yield less than one ton per acre, resulting in a most concentrated, unique expression of this variety and of the Bierzo terroir. Ricardo Perez implements organic and biodynamic practices.In reviewing this 2009 vintage of Descendientes de J. Palacios Petalos, the world's leading wine critics are in agreement: this wine is a winner! Wine Spectator rated it 91 points and, for the second year in a row, named it among its Top 100 Wines of 2012, ranking it #57. Josh Raynolds for Steve Tanzer also scored it 91 points. Get it while you can!Descendientes de J. Palacios Petalos is dark purple-red in color with full body and bright acidity. The nose offers fragrant aromas of blackberries, black cherries, licorice, spice and violets. The palate is rich and velvety with dark berries, mineral notes and well integrated oak. Aged for a few weeks in new French oak barriques followed by 6-10 months in 2nd and 3rd passage barrels. The finish is long and pleasing.Enjoy Descendientes de J. Palacios Petalos with steak, roast pork, BBQ ribs, grilled vegetables and aged cheeses.