Casa Mariol, Samso Crianza 2016, Terra Alta Catalonia Spain

Smartly-made ruby red wine from the Samsó (Carignan) grape. This is a medium-bodied style but is still intensely flavoured with black cherry, violet, leather, thyme and charred toast. There are also some hints of coconut and vanilla. Leaves you nicely with a smooth, velvety finish. The Mariol family has been in the wine business for over 100 years operating out of La Batea, a medieval town in the heart of Terra Alta region of Catalunya. In 1945, the family’s patriarch, José María Vaquer Bes, began selling wines in Rues in Barcelona from his car. The Casa Mariol brand known to the public today was created by descendants Marta, Josep Maria and Miguel Angel in 2007. Their unique, innovative, eye-catching packaging has attracted much attention as have the wines. Under the watchful eye of Miguel Angel Vaquer, the house aims and succeeds in creating quality wines and vermouths at a fantastic value.