Cosme Palacio Tinto 1894 2012

The 2012 Cosme Palacio 1894 a blend of 92% Tempranillo and 8% Graciano from diverse vineyards around Laguardia; it matured in 500-liter French oak barrels (one-third new) for 18 months. Definitively modern and fruit-driven, quite subtle, with contained ripeness, it's very balanced and clean, with nicely integrated oak. The palate shows a similar profile, where everything seems to be in sync. I was very surprised--positively surprised, that is! 2,874 bottles.