2005 Espelt “Sauló”, Empordà

Espelt is a young Spanish winery that was founded in 2000 on a family property in Vilajuïga in northeastern Catalonia, led by the eldest daughter Anna Espelt who studied oenology in the US. The vast majority of their vineyards are located inside two natural parks in the area, producing wines from mostly local varietals. This winery produces a wide range of wines, including red, white, rose, sweet and caves. Their best red is the Comabruna, a blend made from estate grown Syrah, Carinyena and Marselan. Quinze Roures is the winery best white made from a blend of white garnatxa and macabeo.

Unfortunately, Espelt’s wines see a very limited distribution in the North America. Lucky for us, Eric Solomon does import Espelt’s entry level red, the Espelt Sauló into this country. It is a blend of 60% Garnacha and 40% Carineña. This wine comes from the Empordà region that lies just south of the French border on the Mediterranean coast. The soil there is mainly decomposed granite soils (locally known as Sauló) that force vines to struggle for nutrients.

ABV: 13%. Price paid: $11.

Tasting Notes:

Color: dark ruby.

Nose: Aroma of dried cherry, a whiff of alcohol and a hint of oak.

Palate: Supple fruit, consistent cherry flavor with notes of plum. Decent structure with grainy tannins. Round and soft mouth feel.

Body: Medium.

Finish: Short with notes of cherry. Drying tannins is still slightly harsh.

Comments:

The Espelt Sauló comes with a synthetic rubber cork. It is a straight forward wine that goes really well with wide range of casual dishes. Although this wine is meant for immediate consumption, all the components 'may' come together better if we give this wine a year or two in the bottle. However, with all the lush fruits and the easy drinking style, who can wait?