This rarely seen on its own 100% Graciano is truly a wonder of winemaking; it spent close to 3 years in French oak and is sourced from only 3 year old vines – and yet was one of the most interesting and enthralling wines tasted during my visit to Grandes Pagos (Spain). Smoky, spicy, peppery and floral with licorice, all-spice and also some minerality as it opens in the glass. The tannins and acidity are in balance, the fruit is red to the tune of raspberry and strawberry, there’s even some mocha/chocolate on the mid-palate that really helps bring the wine into the totally delicious realm. What really makes this wine is the hint of floral, great complexity and freshness it continues to have for as long as it remains in the glass.  Rating: **** ½