Shows tree bark and exotic spice aromas, while the palate runs fast and basic, with berry fruit and plenty of oak. Notes of licorice, cardamom and other spices push it forward and above the fray.
— M.S.
(5/1/2004)
Full and convincing at first, but with airing some of the wine’s holes become apparent. Nevertheless, this oak-aged Tempranillo delivers good plum and raspberry fruit and a smoky, woody finish. Solid and flavorful, but with a thin midsection.
— M.S.
(5/1/2004)
Ripe and rich, with some prune on the nose; it shows a good mix of berry and earth characteristics in front of a mildly oaky finish that holds its form. Sort of heavy and overripe but still pretty good. Drink now.
— M.S.
(4/1/2007)
This vintage of Fontal, a basic crianza from La Mancha, shows structure, some tannin and body, and finally solid cherry and plum fruit. With a blast of obvious oak and a forward personality, it makes its point.
— M.S.
(10/1/2008)
Neutral, clean, good white wine for the money. The nose features green apple and lemon, and the low-octane body shows brine, citrus fruit flavors and pithy notes. White grapefruit and orange flavors carry the simple finish to a good ending.
— M.S.
(6/1/2010)
Zesty on the nose and pulsing with white-fruit aromas, and that opening is backed by a spritzy, lively body that brings lemon-lime and soda-like flavors. Melony and green on the finish, and good overall in a simple, tropical sort of way.
— M.S.
(2/1/2011)
The nose offers some full fruit, but also a few gaps and a touch of cheesiness. Cherry and pepper define the tight, lean palate, which shows flashes but also recedes into that bland, tart underworld of the average wine.
— M.S.
(5/1/2004)
Ripe fruit forms a good aromatic foundation, and there are also simple spice notes offering added character. The palate is sort of stark, with tangy cherry and raspberry flavors, and since there’s no shortage of acidity the wine has a spiky feel in its center.
— M.S.
(6/1/2008)