The 2009 Camino de Navaherreros is 100% Garnacha sourced from 80+-year-old vines aged in large wooden upright vats. It surrenders delicate red cherry aromas along with hints of cinnamon and incense. Buttressed by uplifting acidity on the palate, this is an intense, impeccably balanced wine that delivers plenty of bang for the buck. Drink it over the next 3 years.
Bernabeleva was established in 2006 with its first vintage one year later. Located in San Martin de Valdeiglesias in the northwestern corner of the Vinos de Madrid DO, the estate has a high elevation with the vines, primarily old-vine Garnacha, planted in deep sandy soils. There is also a small amount of Albillo, an indigenous white variety capable of making first-class wines. The goal of Bernabeleva is to eventually farm 100% biodynamically. Bernabeleva also makes several pricier cuvees that were not available for this tasting.
Importer: Mannie Berk, The Rare Wine Company, Sonoma, CA; Tel. (800) 999-4342, www.rarewineco.com