2017 Spain

The nose of this Mourvèdre (known locally as Monastrell) is open, displaying vibrant bramble fruit and a subtle hint of spice, wild herb and hedgerow. On the palate, the wine is generous and rounded, yet supple and impressively fresh. There is a real finesse to this wine, particularly for its price-point. It is the perfect partner for summer barbecues (or grilled meats in less clement weather). Ready to drink now. 
Lucy Bland, Buying Assistant (spring 2019)

This is a fantastic, pretty rosé from Cillar de Silos made from Tinto Fino (also known as Tempranillo) from vines aged between 15 and 75 years old. It is particularly elegant and fine in 2018, with lovely strawberry fruit and a creamy texture complemented by a hint of dried fennel. This would go very well with seafood or salads. Ready to drink now.
Lucy Bland, Buying Assistant (spring 2019)

Álvaro Palacios and his nephew Ricardo are known for having pioneered the revival of the Bierzo region in northwest Spain. Pétalos – made with Mencía, Bierzo’s signature grape – is sourced from old vines which produce intensely concentrated wines. The 2017 vintage was warmer than ‘16, therefore producing a more powerful wine. It has a dense core of plum and blackberry fruit as well as a little sour red cherry and pepper spice. Notes of violet and dried thyme linger on the finish, along with a thread of granitic minerality. Pair with Middle-Eastern mezze, steak or mushroom risotto. Drink now to 2021. 
Lucy Bland, Buying Assistant (August 2019)

Bodega Mustiguillo is certified organic and has worked hard to pioneer the revival of indigenous grape varieties, championing the red variety Bobal, as well as the equally unknown white indigenous variety, Merseguera – from which this wine is made. The nose is expressive yet restrained, with notes of pink grapefruit, white nectarine and a subtle hint of wild herb. The wine is aged on its lees in barrel, which gives it a slightly round, creamy mouth-feel, balanced by the fresh acidity. This would be great alongside seafood or summer salad dishes. Ready to drink now.
Lucy Bland, Buying Assistant (July 2019)

The 2017 Torresilo is a triumph in the face of adversity. While the 2017 frosts decimated the vineyards at Cillar de Silos, the grapes that remained developed superb intensity and concentration due to the extremely low yields. This is immediately dense on the nose with dark, blackberry coulis and elderberry aromas mingling with sweet vanilla notes. The palate is intense and glorious with huge concentration, yet an uplifting elegance – usually more associated with the Flor and Amalio wines – is in evidence. There is a hedonistic quality to this with hints of potpourri and violets, however the savoury, umami character that always runs through the top Cillar de Silos wines is very clear. There are layers of corduroy tannins which lead to a long, fine finish. Drink 2020-2034.