Budget Wine Review: Ego Bodegas Marionette Monestrell/Syrah Jumilla 2017

marionetteEgo Bodegas is a relatively new winery founded in 2011, with few resources but a burning desire to make money. Their marketing story is refreshingly honest. From their website: “Ego Bodegas is not the culmination of a rich tradition inherited by its owners. Nor was it the result of a burning desire to develop the marvelous vineyards or a mission to learn about the amazing world of wine….From TOP TO BOTTOM, we built the winery from the roof down, and not from the ground up, with one clear objective: SALES AND PROFITABILITY, targets which, when achieved, would guarantee the future of the Company”

No romance here. Their wine delivers that same in-your-face attitude. It’s all about vividness and punch, brash and pulsating with motoric energy. If you don’t care about elegance or finesse, this is for you.

The nose is simple but with clearly defined aromas of prominent black cherry and black pepper, with background smoke and vanilla notes. The palate delivers a load of vanilla and intense blackberry with charred wood notes. Medium plus weight yet powerful, the firm, medium grain tannins and a flare of incisive acidity give the wine a long, edgy finish.

By all means pair with Nine Inch Nails, The Hand that Feeds

Technical Notes: Jumilla is a hot, dry area in the Southeast of Spain of increasing importance, perfect for growing the thick-skinned Monestrell (known as Mourvedre in France.) 15-25 days of maceration in stainless steel tanks with 2 months in American oak. 50% Monestrell, 50% Syrah

Score: 88

Price: $10

Alc: 14%

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