The nose is a chalky black cherry with a hint of black cherry greek yogurt.  The palate is a rush of focused dark/bitter cherry that quickly blossoms into a mix of crushed dried red flower petals (rose, hibiscus) and faded dried sage.  With time in glass, the nose opens up to include balsamic and licorice notes.  The wine is focused and fruit forward, yet not opulently fruity. Tannins are pronounced but well balanced, especially given it’s only a two year old wine.  While Gutierrez (see below) says 'drink now', I would actually lay down a few bottles to see how the wine mellows out (not a heavy ask at this price point.)  Owing to second and third year wood, there are no wood notes save a hint of smokiness and black licorice. At 14.5% alcohol, you might think it’s hot, but it’s not.  Villota’s other offerings (which we will bring in the future) are admittedly bigger, fatter, more plush and luscious.  But for its price, the Selvanevada is meant to be humble and straightforward.  It achieves the translation from terroir to bottle very well, and outshines Rioja competitors at this price with its fruit forward honesty.  

‘Fruity nose but not yet a fruit bomb. I like the purity and the fleshy cherry core, with notes of blueberries, dark plums and dried hibiscus. Fresh and nicely chewy with a fleshy core of mid-palate fruit. Flavorful, medium-length finish with loads of fruit.” Luis Gutierrez, 91 points