2010 vintage (half bottle). Upon opening, there was a split second hesitation as to whether the wine was skunked or not. Extremely earthy and funky nose though the taste and color assured that it was fine, though it surely needed a ton of time to come together. We enjoyed a Chenin Blanc while we waited for the Rioja. Revisiting the nose about 45 minutes later, it was clear the time alone improved it immensely. Alas, the classic notes of vanilla and oak and cherry that I so often associate with Rioja. Drinking it 20 minutes later over the next hour, the wine was showing incredibly well and so different from its previously unruly and spastic self. It was now much more tame and finessed, well integrated tannins yet still present, with nice acidity and a good amount of freshness. Incredibly enjoyable all on its own. A fun journey that had a rocky beginning but very rewarding end.
2010 vintage (half bottle). Upon opening, there was a split second hesitation as to whether the wine was skunked or not. Extremely earthy and funky nose though the taste and color assured that it was fine, though it surely needed a ton of time to come together. We enjoyed a Chenin Blanc while we waited for the Rioja. Revisiting the nose about 45 minutes later, it was clear the time alone improved it immensely. Alas, the classic notes of vanilla and oak and cherry that I so often associate with Rioja. Drinking it 20 minutes later over the next hour, the wine was showing incredibly well and so different from its previously unruly and spastic self. It was now much more tame and finessed, well integrated tannins yet still present, with nice acidity and a good amount of freshness. Incredibly enjoyable all on its own. A fun journey that had a rocky beginning but very rewarding end.
Jun 15th, 2024
An oak, a leather & earthy. Almost without fruit. Very good, great acidity.
An oak, a leather & earthy. Almost without fruit. Very good, great acidity.
Jun 7th, 2024
La Rioja Alta, La Rioja, Spain
