Fun to say about a nine year old wine, but this Rioja needs to be decanted. It was thin fruit juice with little bite in the finish upon first sip. Once it aired out, though, the wine came alive. Dark cherry, stewed strawberry, cranberry, pomegranate, raspberry jam, black tea, American oak, cinnamon, clove, and a hint of black and white pepper on the palate. Medium plus tannins, medium alcohol, and high acid. Smooth and powerful from start to finish. An example of how masculine a Rioja can present without the need to amp it up with alcohol.
Fun to say about a nine year old wine, but this Rioja needs to be decanted. It was thin fruit juice with little bite in the finish upon first sip. Once it aired out, though, the wine came alive. Dark cherry, stewed strawberry, cranberry, pomegranate, raspberry jam, black tea, American oak, cinnamon, clove, and a hint of black and white pepper on the palate. Medium plus tannins, medium alcohol, and high acid. Smooth and powerful from start to finish. An example of how masculine a Rioja can present without the need to amp it up with alcohol.
Sep 15th, 2020
La Rioja, Spain
