Viña Pomal Seleccion 500 Rioja, Bodegas Bilbaínas

The Tempranillo grape brings structure and volume whilst the Garnacha grape adds freshness and balance. These are vinified and barrel aged separately. The Tempranillo spends 15 months in 225ltr French and American oak barrels, whereas the Garnacha is aged in 500ltr French oak barrels. The lower wood to wine ratio here means a slower aging process, to account for its more delicate nature. The blend is appreciable in the spicy floral notes of the Tempranillo and the aromas of dark fruit, violets and liquorice intermingle with the flavoursome red fruit of the Garnacha. In the mouth it has a powerful, front palate which immediately gives way to freshness, balance and a finish of cocoa, minerals and coffee.