Finally, we got to the 2008 Tempranillo. Like the others it was another savoury style, ruby red in the glass, berry and floral characters on the nose and a spicy palate with pleasant astringency and a nice dash of tannins. Very drinkable indeed. We’d tried the Brown Brothers 2006 Tempranillo the night before, and Madam agreed that there wasn’t much between the two, an impressive wrap given the two-year age gap.
Looking back over the box at $135 for the pack, I thought it was exceptionally good value, particularly as an opportunity to try straight varietal versions of things that you’re more likely to sight hidden away in a blend elsewhere.
Madam didn’t like the Sangiovese, and is starting to think the blood of Jove isn’t her thing (I don’t think she’s the only one in that camp). The Mourvedre, on the other hand, she rated as very good. For my part I’m looking forward to cracking the remaining bottles, and once we’re finished I’ll be checking the website to see if the package is still on offer.
Oh, and I’ll definitely be lining up for the 2009 Reds pack...