2002 Descendientes de J. Palacios. Moncerbal Vineyard, Bierzo DO, Spain. 13.5% alcohol. $90. 108 cases produced.
A deep purple black hue with thin slightly colored legs. A primal and intense nose of burning embers, heavily toasted and smoky oak, a touch of hung game, tart blackberries, and stone. Smooth and delicate in the mouth but with a depth that only the finest wines can muster. Tannins are significant but pleasingly textured. High acids are nevertheless well integrated. Excellent length on the finish with plenty of dark fruits and wood coming through. A remarkable wine. The Moncerbal vineyard is slightly less than two acres in size and is planted with 90 to 100 year old vines. Somewhat surprisingly, I preferred the 2002 Moncerbal to the 2001 vintage. Drink now (2010) to 2014+. 93+ points.