Rioja Alta, Gran Reserva 890

Rioja Alta, Gran Reserva 890Reddish orange color. Knockout aromas reminiscent of a great mature Burgundy, strawberry, plum, loam, tar, vanilla, smoke and earth. Rich, shockingly fresh flavors of currant, cinnamon and earth; juicy acids give clarity to the wine's flavors and cleanse the palate. Slight minty nuance on the very long, brisk aftertaste. Fabulous Rioja gran reserva. Stephen Tanzer

always wanting to experiment

lacking some spark

focused and stony medium weight flavors that coat the palate with dry extract on the youthfully austere

However there is good freshness and excellent intensity to the vibrant

dried herbs and spices

fine-grained texture and lively backbone

pliant and energetic on the palate

dead-fruit flavors and bright acidity on the finish

anise and spice

fruity finish

except that it seemed like an interesting anecdote to share

It was a most unusual year that was cold and rainy and allowed for no irrigation