Embruix de Vall Llach 2013 (Magnum)

"The 2013 Embruix is a multi-grape blend that changes with the vintage and this year was Garnacha (26%), Merlot (24%), Cabernet Sauvignon (17%), Syrah (17%) and Cariñena (16%) from younger vines (20 to 25 years old). The wines are always ripe, this is 15.5% alcohol and low in acidity (4.9 grams with a pH of 3.6) but generously oaked. Here, the élevage was in new French oak barrels but also in 1,500-liter foudres and amphorae for the Garnacha. This is quite ripe and heady, with black rather than red fruit, somehow perfumed and showing some soil notes, too. The oak shows up in the shape of coffee and dark chocolate notes. There is quite a lot of tannins for an entry-level red, which is powerful and in need of some hearty food. Again, despite the high ripeness of the fruit there is better freshness here than in the 2012. 65,000 bottles and some larger formats were produced."