Rioja Gran Reserva

I fell in love with the wines of the Rioja region of Spain during my first trip there in 2002. The region is most well known for Tempranillo, Grenache, Mazuelo (A.K.A. Carignan), and Graciano grapes. There are a number of styles of Rioja wine, and “Gran Reserva” is the top designation. To get that title, the wine has to spend at least 24 months ageing in oak barrels, then a further 36 months in the bottle before release.

I bought this wine in April 2018 from Wine.com for $23. Relatively cheap for a Gran Reserva.

Tasting Notes

90% Tempranillo / 10% Mazuelo. 24 months in American and French barrels. Tasted, June 2018.

Colour is medium+ garnet with hints of ruby. The age of the wine shows by the concentration of colour towards the centre, but it’s not turning brown yet.

Legs form quickly. Alcohol listed as 13.5% ABV

Smoky nose of medium intensity, with vanilla and dark fruit. Opens up to toasty vanilla, ripe berries, and hints of leather and smoke.

Medium+ body, tannin, and acidity are well balanced.

The finish is balanced, pleasant, and lasting. Flavours are of ripe blackberry and vanilla oak.

Conclusion

I have been very lucky to try some utterly fantastic Rioja wines, and while this isn’t the very best, it’s still a very nice wine for the money. Perhaps I’ll order a couple more of these when I can, and see how it develops with a bit more bottle ageing.