The Solanera is a blend of 65% Monastrell, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Tintorera. This wine is a custom blend for Eric Solomon and is bottled unfiltered and unfined. All of the grapes are from low yielding vinas viejas (40+ year old vines) and come from the Yecla region. The Yecla region is located along the southern Mediterranean coast between Valencia and Murcia. Monastrell is the primary grape in Yecla and it thrives in the area's limestone rich soils and warm Mediterranean climate.
The color of the wine is lighter than I would have expected, but it was still a beautiful purple color with good viscosity.
The aroma was slightly herbal with an au-jus component and backed up by alternating red and black fruits. There may also be some slight chocolate components.
The flavors are rich and continue to alternate between cherries, raspberries, au-jus, and light chocolate. The tannins are light, but there is just enough structure to keep this solid. I bought this for $18 at Westport Whiskey & Wine (www.westportwhiskeyandwine.com) and I think it drinks like a bottle that costs $30 easy. The initial purchase was based solely on the fact that it was an Eric Solomon selection (www.europeancellars.com), but after tasting it the bottle stands on its own. If you aren't familiar with Eric Solomon do yourself a favor and check out his website.
Most Spanish wines in the $13-18 range tend to be fruit dominant and easy to drink. They're fun and taste great, but they don't offer much structure. I know this is at the upper end of that "bargain" range for Spanish reds, but you can taste the quality.
Highly recommended.
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