Bodega Niño Jesús, founded in 1978 within the DO Calatayud denomination. This is an agricultural co-op specialized in grape and cherry production. There are 150 grape growers in the co-op, tending 330 hectares (815 arces) of vines with an average age of more than 30 years. The principal grape variety is Garnacha (also called Garnacha Tinta del Monte or "Red Garnacha from the hills"). Other varieties planted include Tempranillo, Syrah (recent) and the white Macabeo (a.k.a. Viura).
The vines grow at altitudes between 650 and 880 meters above sea level on rocky/gravel soils with a minimal organic content. This, along with the vine's age and scant rainfall means very low yields in the range of 1.5 to 2 kilos per plant. Extreme temperature shifts, both seasonal and daytime to nighttime, make for fully ripened grapes which maintain their natural acidity.
Bright violet. Dark berry and cherry aromas show a jammy aspect. Supple and gently sweet, with good lift to its black raspberry and boysenberry flavors. Smooth and broad on the finish, leaving behind a hint of spiciness. Extremely easy to drink and an excellent value.
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Item Number | Unit | Units/Case | Type | UPC - bottle | SCC - case | SRP/Unit |
S0EE220010GRM | 750ml | 12 | Glass | 7 84585 00607 6 | 1 07 84585 00607 3 | $9.99 |
Figaro is 100% Garnacha, made from a selection of the best grapes grown in the oldest vineyards. While not truly an "oaked wine", a short stay in oak barrels provides a nice spicy flavor boost.
"This 2012 Tinto (100% Grenache) offers uplifted, fragrant notes of licorice, lavender and black cherry jam. Intense and spicy with medium to full body, and not a hard edge to be found, this is a classic, seductive, consumer-friendly Grenache to drink over the next 1-2 years. "
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Issue #208, August 2013), 89 pts
"(all garnacha, raised briefly in oak): Bright violet color. Spicy blackberry and fresh flowers on the nose, given lift by a peppery nuance. Juicy and brisk on the palate, with clean dark berry flavors and a touch of bitter chocolate. Closes on a juicy note, with sneaky tannins and good focus."
- Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar (September/October 2014), 88 pts
"The 2011 Figaro Tinto is 100% Garnacha and offers fresh dark cherry and plum aromas on the nose with hints of herbs, vanilla and licorice. it is full and delicious on the palate with soft round tannins and a pleasant finish. Easy drinking and a great value."
I-WineReview (December 2013), 89 pts
"This is dark as night, with boysenberry, blackberry, animal fur and smooth oak aromas. For $10, it’s bringing all sorts of power and quality, like oak-influenced flavors of vanilla, chocolate, blackberry and cassis. On the finish, this is full and smacks down with tannic grab.- MS"
Wine Enthusiast (July 2013), 88 pts + BEST BUY
"(100% garnacha; aged briefly in oak): Bright ruby. Spicy cherry and dark berries on the nose. Juicy blackberry and blueberry flavors are firmed by fine-grained tannins and enlivened by tangy acidity. A spicy note builds on the gently sweet, persistent finish, with the blueberry note repeating. - Josh Raynolds"
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar (September 2013), 88 pts