El Bombero DOC 2008

Tasted 31/07/2012, 15% ABV, cork closure. Sara described this wine as schitzophrenic and I think she is right. This was a real success for Laithwaites (ca. £8) and I have had various bottles, this one in stock since 2009. It's made from Grenache (Garnacha) from Carinena (Aragon) in northern Spain. It did well in many initial tastings for its upfront appeal and at 15% ABV it is well named 'The Fireman'. But, I think at 5 years old, it's lost its past its best. Deep purple colour, the nose is an attractive hit of damson and dark fruits, perhaps a little stewed. On the palate, there is an immediate attraction of damsons and prunes but then a real hole and then a sweetish, strawberry jam like finish. Drink up! However, went well with my strongly flavoured roasted cod. 15/20.