Ace of Spades Les Myrs

Tasting this wine blind, I managed to identify it, aided slightly by recalling the wine collection of the person who brought it. The bouquet suggested Spanish grapes in a natty execution, and the delicate palate with lower alcohol content pointed towards Matassa. From there, it was a mix of luck and memory to pick the correct name.

This beautiful bottle exemplifies why aging red Matassa is essential. While Les Myrs was once one of my least favorites, this bottle is extraordinary. Young Matassa is certainly fun and easy to drink, but with time, it develops remarkable depth and complexity, all while retaining its enjoyable qualities---subtle natural notes coupled with vibrant juiciness.

The nose is captivating, with aromas of tapenade, barnyard, plums, pickles, old socks, black pepper, and sour cherry. The wine's texture and balance are outstanding---silky, juicy, and incredibly easygoing. It's both quaffable and nuanced, with an impressively long finish.