The 2005 Mestizaje is composed of 70% Bobal with the balance equal parts Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The fruit comes from vines planted on chalk and limestone at high altitude in the Terrerazo zone of Utiel-Requena. Malolactic fermentation occurred in used French oak where the wine remained for an additional 6 months before being bottled unfined and unfiltered. Purple in color, the wine offers aromas of pain grille, damp earth, vanilla, black cherry, and black currant. Thick and chewy on the palate, the wine has excellent depth and concentration leading to a tannic finish. If the tannins become better integrated over the next 2-3 years, my score will appear conservative. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565