El Cismático 2020

The 2020 El Cismático comes from their two plots in Armantes in Cervera de la Cañada that were planted between 1937 and 1942, and the wine has more effect from the limestone and whiter soils. In search of a more age-worthy wine, it matured in used barrels, and it has less effect from the oak, with increased finesse and fruit. Tasting this next to the 2021 had a similar effect as in the other wines where I tasted the 2020 and 2021 together—the effect of the vintage is more noticeable and even increased as the wines sat in the glass, opened up and got a little warmer too. It has fine tannins and a nice grip. It improved with time in the glass, developing more nuance and finesse and also a good sign about its aging capacity. 3,733 bottles were filled in December 2022.

Attractive aromas of ripe cherries, wild raspberries, hints of licorice, dried flowers, blood orange and bitter chocolate. Medium- to full-bodied with vivid acidity that adds a lot of freshness and tension with orange peel and spice undertones. Very pure and pristine. A little chewy at the end with peppery notes to it. Chalky, mineral sensation in the finish. 100% garnacha. 20% whole bunch. Plantings between 1937 and 1942.

An intense and complex wine reflecting its old vine provenance from a single site above Cervera de la Cañada. Spending 13 months in old, 500-litre French oak then a further eight months in cement, the structure of this Garnacha is reminiscent of top Châteauneuf-du-Pape but with a distinctly Calatayud character. Fresh garrigue aromas and dark fruit; deep and concentrated with a peppery finish. Will develop further.