Barbarot 2016

Barbarot is the Grand Vin from Bárbara Palacios, made with an unusual cuvée of Tempranillo and 15% Merlot. She did a rosé in 2016 to concentrate this blend after rain during harvest, resulting in a wine that's textured, supple and ripe with polished tannins, tangy acidity, grassy undertones and plum and raspberry fruit. 2022-27

The super classical 2016 Barbarot follows the ascendant line of the 2015 but with an extra touch of freshness and elegance. The 15% or so of Merlot that complements the majority of Tempranillo brings a spicy and herbal note and also a touch of freshness, which is also aided by the character of the 2016 vintage. It has textbook aromas of blackberries, pencil shavings and aromatic herbs. There is contained ripeness despite the highish alcohol (15.33%), and the wine comes through as balanced in a powerful style. The palate has volume, fruit and tannins in good harmony. 10,500 bottles were filled in May 2018.