The single vineyard 2008 Santa Rosa Reserva is a blend of Cabernet, Shiraz and Merlot aged for 18 months in French Allier oak (new and one-year-old barrels.) It demands some coaxing from the glass, but scents of blackberry, cassis and coca eventually poke their heads from under their covers. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannins on the entry. It has good depth: a rather muscular Alicante red with the oak nicely playing a supporting rather than dominant role towards the finish. Drink 2013-2018.
Importer: Winebow; www.winebow.com