Matsu (young man)”El Picaro”

Origin:  Spain

Grape: 100% Tinta De Tora (Tempranillo)

Body:  Medium

Year:  2016

Alcohol:  14.5%

Pricepoint:  $12.00

Year Reviewed:  2017

What can I say about this wine I love so much?  Discovered it at a wine tasting in Hinsdale, Illinois and have searched for it since then.  Make sure you are buying the “young man” label as Matsu has what they call “young man” label and “old man label.”  This wine is fermented in concrete initially and then finished in 6 weeks of Oak and its character is so enjoyable and berry (cherry filled).  Not only go I love the taste of this wine, the aroma is so pleasant and comforting.  Tastes of fresh meadow and earth, vanilla, and cherries and cleanness, all add to its complexity.  Think of how things smell after you clean or open your windows on a beautiful breezy spring afternoon.    Sniff it.   The fragrance and the bouquet I receive from nose to glass is an experience.  Maybe it’s the 90 year old vineyards that just makes the difference for me, as those “old vines” are my favorite and have stood the test of time.  Recommended to decant this wine in case of natural sediment, but 90% of the time I have not encountered any.  One of my all-time favorites– so you must try it if you love Tempranillos, love complexity, or are experimenting for your growth!!!  You will be as happy as me that you found this wine.  The down side is that you will probably drink too much of this wine after opening and not want to share it with friends!   Call me and I will be over.

Update on Matsu Young Man for 2017…..definitely a younger wine than 2016……wonder what the winemaker is doing differently.  Have not enjoyed this vintage as much.