Rulei Viña el Moral Viñedo Singular Garnacha 2018

Rulei is a demonstration of the uniqueness of the high-altitude vineyards in the Najerilla valley, which historically specialised in Garnacha vines, though they are now all but abandoned. This wine is pure Garnacha from a centenarian vineyard. Aged 10 months in French oak barriques, and just 2,200 bottles produced. Yolanda Ortiz de Arri Izarra: Deep ruby, with a ripe nose and mineral character. This is bright yet restrained, with a long finish. Sarah Jane Evans, MW: The sumptuous aroma leads to a rich, plummy palate that’s coated with dark chocolate and has a creamy note. The tannins give it structure but don’t dominate. Long. Winemaking not intrusive. Pedro Ballesteros Torres, MW: A very intense nose of black fruit and liquorice with pencil and mint. This is a future icon, which has amazing density, a distinctive identity, and a deep, multi-layered fruit expression. Restrained finish. An unforgettable wine. Drinking window: 2023-2030. Part of Viñedo Singular: panel tasting results. Score – 96. (Panel, decanter.com, Feb. 4, 2022)