Descendientes de J. Palacios, Bierzo (Castilla y León, Spain) San Martín 2005

($100, The Rare Wine Company): With an annual production of less than 2,000 bottles, Palacios’ ‘single-vineyard wines’ are tough to find.  Technically not sourced from a single vineyard, but rather several parcels all located on the San Martín hill, this wine is silky and plush with a fabulous nose of violets and spice.  Layers of minerality that persist into the finish and impeccable balance reinforce the initial impression that this is a great wine. 94 Michael Apstein Aug 28, 2007