La Bascula Tasting

Not only did I have the pleasure of trying the La Bascula range of wines it was lead by Ed Adams MW who is in partnership with winemaker friend Bruce Jack that create these delicious wines.

Bascula means balance and that reflects in their wines, they have low yields and high quality. What is refreshing is that although they have used international grape varieties they have made the Spanish native grape the lead varietal.

La Bascula wines are made in different parts of Spain giving you a full range of what Spain can offer.

Each wine has an individual name and we started with the Catalan Eagle 2009. Garnacha Blanca and Viognier with a small percentage of Roussane, giving it a Southern Rhone blend. It had great flavours of peach and honey, great acidity giving it freshness, rounded on the palate and good body.

The Charge Barrel fermented Viura 2007 Rioja. Along with barrel fermentation, 30% was blended from stainless steel which enabled the freshness of fruit and the body of oak. Well balanced spice and long finish.

The Charge Tempranillo and Garnacha 2006 Rioja. This is grown in vineyards similar to that of Châteauneuf du Pape famous for its stones that retain the heat. This Rioja was a refreshing change as you it wasn’t over oaked. It was delicate with red fruit, body, and a hint of vanilla. Could even be classed as my favourite red of the evening.

Turret fields Monastrell and Syrah 2008 Jumilla. This is made with 30 year vines and the continental climate gives high alcohol wines. however, the fruit, tannin and acidity gave it the freshness to ensure it was balanced.

Sensia Tempranillo 2009 Ribera del Duero. This is made with in a Co op that is shared with that of the famous Torres. This is a great area and produces great wine this included.

The Gauntlet Monastrell 2008 Yecla. A real treat of up to 90yr old vines with an average age of 60yrs. These vines are un-grafted which is really unique and exciting. Low yields really give this a smooth softer wine and you can almost feel the age of the delicate vine but with the power of the strength to last that long. This single vineyard wine shows scrumptious red cherries and raspberries with a beautiful long finish. Maybe this was my favourite!

Casta Diva Moscatel 2008 Alicante. When you have a gorgeous dessert wine don’t ask about the sugar content, just seat back sip and enjoy. This is one little treat that has all you want, the orange marmalade and raisin, it has that perfect level of acidity to re fresh your palate. What is even better news is that it can last in the fridge for up to 6 weeks! I find this great as I love a taster of dessert wine but am alone in this indulgence.

I can now enjoy dessert wine to my hearts content! I will of course continue to go to the gym to keep my sweet tooth in check! After all……As with all good wine its all in the balance!

If you would like to find out more please visit www.labascula.net