Matetic Corralillo Winemaker's Blend, 2007 (San Antonio)

Tasted 14.04.11, 14.5%. About £16 UK retail (e.g. Majestic). A curious blend of Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir from the fine Matetic estate.This is a blend that more-or-less works. The wine is rich and elegant but with a strong smack of alcohol. Deep purple colour, bell peppers and damsons on the nose. Dense, tannic and full of dark fruits. Hints of spice and coffee. Good to drink now but you wonder if it will improve. Perhaps not: though it is a winemaker's blend, it may be very young vines. Not in the same league as their Syrah but a nice wine, nonetheless. From 2011, 16.5/20