Bodegas Olivares Jumilla Dulce Monastrell 2017

Wine Advocate : 94 Points

(4/29/2022) I just love the expressive nose of tomato vine, Mediterranean herbs and black olive of the 2017 Dulce Monastrell, a sweet fortified red I had already tasted and which seems to be evolving at a glacial pace. It has the tannin and structure of the dry red wines from the region, balanced by some 230 grams of acidity and fortified to 16% alcohol. The tannins and alcohol make the wine come through as balanced and not as sweet as you might imagine given the amount of sugar it has. This is bottled unoaked and matured exclusively in bottle. It's the Mediterranean alternative to a young Ruby Port. Drink Date: 2022 - 2030.

James Suckling : 92 Points

(9/9/2022) Lots of licorice, sweet blackberries, raisins, syrup, chocolate fudge and dried lemon peel. An unctuous sweet red, showing lots of concentration and sugar, balanced by fresh acidity and a delicious dark-chocolate tone in the finish. Drink or hold.

Vinous - Josh Raynolds : 92 Points

(1/2021) Dark purple. Powerful dark berry liqueur, singed plum and fruitcake aromas are energized by a spicy nuance. Lush and sweet in the mouth, offering deep black and blue fruit preserve and candied date flavors that show a creamy texture and a touch of bitter chocolate. Finishes long, broad and creamy, with lingering sweetness and a touch of baking spices. Drinking Window: 2021 - 2027.