Es lo Que Hay Garnacha Vinas Viejas 2018
93 POINTS: Robert Parker's - The Wine Advocate
"The red 2018 Es Lo Que Hay, comes from a vintage Norrel Robertson describes as "one of the standout years in our 17 years producing Garnacha." This is mostly Garnacha, with just 5% other grapes, as it comes exclusively from two old vineyards in the village of Villarroya de la Sierra, and such vineyards always have a small proportion of other grapes, mostly Moristel with a little Miguel de Arco and some Provechón (Bobal). All the varieties fermented together destemmed after a five-day cold soak with the natural yeasts and then matured in Flextank egg for 15 months. This is softer, with more clay and limestone influence rather than the slate soils from the vineyards used in the past for the cuvée. This has more depth and complexity, perhaps from the other grape varieties that complement the Garnacha, and probably has a little more acidity and tannin. It has tension, minerality and good acidity, probably from the Moristel, which tends to ripen a little later than the Garnacha. Tasty. Again, not a shy wine at 15% alcohol but nicely balanced. 3,966 bottles were filled in March 2020."
- Robert Parker's - The Wine Advocate
“Norrel has spent years seeking out the best expression of high-altitude old vineyards and making wines of great character.”
- Sarah Jane Evans MW, Decanter Magazine
“I have long admired my fellow Master of Wine's work in lesser known corners of Spain. Talented Norrel Robertson has made some of the most exciting discoveries I have come across in a long while. El Escocés Volante are the top producer in Calatayud.”
- Jancis Robinson, Master of Wine
“Calatayud is a Spanish region we really should check out before prices rise. In Spain we see it as a possibility the next big thing. Norrel is a wine maverick, bravely innovative with impeccable knowledge. I still have his first Spanish wine engraved on my heart as it was a wine that opened a new path in the region.”
- Ferran Centelles, The Wine Advocate
ABV: 15%