Department 66 Painted Scars 2022 750ml

Product Info

• Aroma: Dark crimson or deep ruby in the glass, it opens with powerful aromatics of ripe damson plums, wild blackberry compote, and black cherry, accented by lavish new cedar wood. Secondary layers emerge as it breathes, displaying complex notes of espresso, baking chocolate, cardamom, and wet stone slate. 
• Palate: Broad, dense, and full-bodied. The entry delivers a rich wave of concentrated dark fruit, boysenberry, and black fig layered with elements of cacao powder, licorice, and savory goulash or lamb tagine. It balances a plush, velvety mouthfeel with a striking, iron-like structural freshness. 
• Finish: Long, intense, and persistent. It closes with a robust structural framework of puckering, refined tannins balanced by a lingering, crushed-stone mineral edge and a whisper of smoke. 

• Composition: Primarily an old-vine blend of Grenache and Syrah.
• Terroir: Cultivated in the rugged foothills of the Pyrenees mountains. The extreme heat of the Roussillon region is buffered by strong local winds, resulting in microscopic yields of exceptionally concentrated grapes.
• Maturation: Aged for 10 to 15 months in French oak barriques (depending on the vintage), keeping the oak imprint well-integrated against the immense fruit power.
• Alcohol: Clocks in at a powerful 15.5% ABV, creating a rich and warming weight on the palate. 

• Serving Tips: Serve at a standard room or slightly cool cellar temperature (16–18°C / 60–64°F). Given its intense, broad concentration and high ABV, decanting for at least 45 to 60 minutes is highly recommended to let the tannins soften and the complex spice aromatics unfold.
• Food Pairings: This rich, high-extract red requires substantial, hearty food to match its structure:
  • Slow-braised lamb shanks, Moroccan lamb tagine, or venison stews.
  • Thick, marbled grilled ribeye or prime rib served with a mushroom reductions.
  • Barbecued smoked brisket or pulled pork featuring sweet and savory rubs.
  • Hard, aged cheeses like mature Gouda, Manchego, or sharp cheddar. [1]