2008 Celler Malondra Montsant Besllum

I’ve said it before, but it amazes me how much influence Robert Parker has on wine sales. Recently at Costco, I’ve been surprised to see labels highlighting their Parker scores. The 2009 Punto y Seguido proudly listed the 91 score, and the Besllum prominently shows off the 93. I was first introduced to this wine by an acquaintance who considers it their very favorite value wine, so when I saw it on sale at Costco for $12, I had to pick up a bottle and see if I liked it as much as I had the first time around.

This is a very good example of an International-styled garnacha (grenache) blend from Spain. There isn’t so much regional character or terroir and it instead focuses on the fruit. The color was a lovely purpley-red, still looking young with five years age. Dark red fruit, cherry licorice, vanilla and wood were prominent on the nose. There was ample fruit up front, enough tannin for balance and a smooth finish. I would recommend decanting, but not much or for very long. Minutes, not hours, gives you balance and a lingering sweet spice/tobacco finish. I found I liked the wine best poured into the decanter then immediately into my glass. Hours of sitting will definitely take the oomph out of the wine.

At $12, this is an excellent wine for the price. I don’t think there’s enough complexity to warrant Parker’s score of 93, but it’s delicious nonetheless and I will happily be buying/drinking more.