Gabriel Martinez Soul 2015

Regularly $17.99

Buy six or more pay just $11.99
All Else Sale $13.99

91 pts James Suckling

Winemaker Gabriel Martinez’s family has a long history in the Jumilla region of Southeastern Spain, having been one of the first wineries to export Monastrell to France during the onset of phylloxera in the mid 1800’s. It is with this history, experience and love for his homeland that Gabriel purchased his own vineyards. He focused on plots at a high altitude with areas of shade in order to achieve freshness and vibrancy. And because the region was blessed with them, he only bought vineyards with an average of 50 or more years. While not lacking for power, his wines are a modern, elegant and balanced take on the powerful Monastrell grape.

In short, he is looking to capture nothing less than the “soul” of the region and the grape.

I’ve tasted hundreds of Monastrell over the years… and sold over 25,000 bottles…

I think he has nailed it.

The aromas hit you before the wine finishes pouring into the glass – just exploding with bright cherry, plum and black raspberry notes. A juicy explosion of vibrant fruit melds together with hints of cracked black pepper and a delicate floral note all pulled back together by fine tannins on the finish. Food? Well, this is everyday wine for everyday food – a la American dishes like burgers, ribs, chops and chili are easy options. Feeling a bit Spanish tonight? Try one of my favorites from the region – revuelto: eggs scrambled with beans, garlic onions and ham. Man, the Spanish love their eggs, and so do I! Not just for breakfast, folks! Or, try Chuletas al ajo cabañil… lamb chops with garlic!

The classic dish of the region is Paella… but you won’t see it on the menu. Rather, you will see the specific rice listed! In this case, Arroz (rice) de Calasparra, grown about 10 miles down the road in the village of the same name. At Restaurante de Loreto, just down the street from the winery, they offer two versions of Arroz de Calasparra; “con conejo y caracoles” (with rabbits and snails) and “con pichón” (with pigeon). Click on the pic for a recipe.


Or reply. The wine is available now in Chapel Hill. Thursday, as ordered, in Hillsborough.