The 2009 Paixar leans toward riper, darker berry flavors, with some chocolate and mint notes. The palate is very spicy, classy and powerful, very long, with the earthy notes coming back mixed with wild herbs and flowers found in the mountains where the grapes are grown. Drink 2015-2022. Paixar is a joint venture between the Garcia brothers from the Mauro winery in the Duero region and Alejandro Luna from Luna Beberide in Bierzo. Gregory Perez from Mengoba was also a founding partner in the project, but he sold his share in 2010. They only produce and raise one wine in the Luna Beberide winery, Paixar, from south-facing, high-altitude (700 to 900 meters) old vineyards (over 80 years old) in the village of Dragonte. The wine is aged for 16 months in French barrels and bottled unfiltered. They are serious, powerful wines that require some time in bottle to soften up and integrate the power of the old vines and the effect of the aging. The wines have been going from strength to strength since they started the project at the turn of the century, gaining in elegance and balance with each vintage, the oak becoming better integrated into the wine. Imported by Aurelio Cabestrero, Grapes of Spain, Lorton, VA; tel. (571) 642-0343

Smoky and gamy notes frame black cherry, licorice and herbal flavors in this round red. Tobacco and light earthy notes impart a slightly rustic character, but this remains harmonious and deep. Drink now through 2016. 460 cases made, 170 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Bierzo Select to Add