Ermita de San Lorenzo Gran Selección 2014

A Gran Selección is one of the big daddies in the Spanish reds kingdom, alongside Gran Reserva. The exact winemaking rules on who gets called what vary from region to region, but this stunner is a classic example of the intended style–smooth, round, and perfectly mature. It’s also on a roll with international acclaim, winning three gold medals from top competitions. (No surprise there, though – counting all the previous vintages, it’s scooped up more than a dozen golds in just a few years!)

The pride-and-joy of husband-and-wife team, Miguel and Susana Ruberte, Ermita de San Lorenzo is made using gnarled, old (flavor boosting!) Garnacha and Cabernet vines, grown in hot and arid Campo de Borja. The Rubertes age the wine deep inside ancient, hand-dug caves–this far inside the Earth, temperatures remain constant through harsh winters and blistering summers, allowing the wine to mellow and mature to its deliciously drinkable peak. (Even the enormous, oak barricas used to age the wine are handmade –that is dedication to quality.)

What to expect in the glass: mouthfuls of ripe, black fruits and layers of mellow spice. This is a limited-production red that was made for big family dinners. Pair with any kind of roasted red meat (beef, game, etc.) and enjoy.