Country: Spain Region: Rioja Varietal: Tempranillo Vintage: 2011 Colour: Red Producer: Bodegas Pomal  Description:The grapes for this wine come from Viña Pomal's own vineyards which surround the winery. The first Viña Pomal release was over 100 years ago in 1904, and they have since been producing high quality, classic 100% Tempranillo Riojas. Bursting with blackberry and raspberry fruit, the palate is clean, intense and persistent. Perfectly balanced with soft velvety tannins it is delicious from start to the long finish. This traditional style of Rioja will be a superb complement to Catalan-style charcuterie or cured meats. Tasting Note: Garnet and cherry hues introduce this bright Great Reserve with light orange reflections on the rim. The unique vinification process of this Great Reserve provides a complex, elegant nose with notes of liquorice and red fruit, typical of the Tempranillo, along with hints of spices subtly added by the Graciano. During bottle ageing, all of this is assembled with toasty and balsamic aromas (vanilla, pepper, tobacco) contributed by the barrels.  As the wine is aired in the glass, it discloses its full range of nuances and complex aromas. In the mouth, it reflects our surroundings, with a mild entry and a sense of elegance and balance, ending in long persistence, denoting the craft of barrel ageing and the assemblage provided by a long stay in the bottle. Food Matches: Venison / Turkey / Mediterranean / Blue Cheese