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Best wine from Rioja, Spain
A Connoisseur’s Guide
Spain’s Rioja region, nestled against the backdrop of the Sierra Cantabria mountain range, is famed for its remarkable wines, rich history, and the delicate balance of tradition and modernity in winemaking. The region’s predominantly red wines are characterized by their aging potential, complexity, and the signature influence of oak aging. Here, we journey through the standout wines from Rioja and provide expansive reviews for each.
La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904, 2010
Tasting Notes: Displaying a brilliant ruby hue, the wine showcases aromas of dried cherry, leather, and vanilla. The palate is greeted with flavors of red fruit, spices, and a touch of tobacco.
Review: A timeless classic, La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 is an exquisite representation of traditional Rioja wine. Its harmonious blend of flavors and longevity makes it a collector’s favorite.
Muga Prado Enea Gran Reserva 2011
Tasting Notes: This wine reveals a complex nose of blackberries, cocoa, and cedar. Flavors of dark fruit, coffee, and licorice dominate the palate, underscored by structured tannins.
Review: Hailing from the renowned Bodegas Muga, the Prado Enea stands as a testament to the winery’s commitment to excellence. It’s a wine of depth, elegance, and great aging potential.
López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Reserva 2006
Tasting Notes: A symphony of dried strawberries, toasted almond, and a hint of dill can be noted. Its taste brings forth plum, leather, and a dash of spice.
Review: Representing over a century of winemaking expertise, López de Heredia’s Viña Tondonia Reserva is a journey back in time. The wine speaks of the land, tradition, and the passage of time.
CVNE Imperial Gran Reserva 2014
Tasting Notes: Glimpses of dark fruit, smoke, and violets greet the nose. The palate is treated to a dance of black cherry, vanilla, and clove.
Review: CVNE’s Imperial Gran Reserva is a shining star in the Rioja wine scene. A harmonious balance between fruit, oak, and acidity ensures this wine is memorable and long-lasting.
Marqués de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial 2009
Tasting Notes: With captivating aromas of red currant, mocha, and a whisper of olive, this wine promises a profound experience. It delivers with flavors of raspberry, tobacco, and a touch of mineral.
Review: The Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial holds its place among the legends of Rioja. Its multidimensional flavor profile and formidable aging potential make it a choice selection for enthusiasts.
Roda I Reserva 2013
Tasting Notes: A deep garnet in color, this wine presents a vibrant nose of black cherries, dark chocolate, and a hint of licorice. On tasting, you’ll find layers of blackberry, clove, and a touch of cedar.
Review: Bodegas Roda’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to showcasing terroir shines through in the Roda I Reserva. It’s a powerful yet nuanced wine, perfect for those seeking the essence of modern Rioja.
Sierra Cantabria Gran Reserva 2008
Tasting Notes: This wine exudes aromas of dried fig, tobacco, and a gentle whisper of violets. The palate is serenaded by flavors of stewed red fruits, leather, and a hint of black tea.
Review: With its roots in a family winery dating back to 1870, the Sierra Cantabria Gran Reserva is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. It offers a delightful complexity that beckons you to revisit time and again.
Contador 2015
Tasting Notes: With an intoxicating bouquet of blueberries, espresso, and rose petals, this wine is a sensory delight. Its flavor profile boasts of lush red fruits, graphite, and a sprinkling of Mediterranean herbs.
Review: A brainchild of famed winemaker Benjamín Romeo, Contador stands out as a modern icon in Rioja wines. Its blend of power, elegance, and finesse is a testament to the masterful craftsmanship behind the label.
Artadi Viñas de Gain 2016
Tasting Notes: Aromas of fresh raspberries, white pepper, and lavender set the stage. The palate is met with a tapestry of red currant, vanilla, and a touch of mineral undertones.
Review: Bodegas Artadi’s Viñas de Gain showcases the beautiful vibrancy and purity of Tempranillo. It’s a wine that is both youthful in its energy and mature in its depth, echoing the landscapes of Rioja Alavesa.
Ramón Bilbao Gran Reserva 2010
Tasting Notes: This wine reveals enticing scents of dark plums, sandalwood, and aged leather. As you indulge, flavors of ripe berries, mocha, and a hint of smoke unfurl on the palate.
Review: From one of Rioja’s longstanding bodegas, Ramón Bilbao’s Gran Reserva is a celebration of the region’s history and potential. With its intricate layers and balanced structure, it’s a wine that promises both immediate pleasure and longevity.
Bordeaux, with its rich tapestry of vineyards, climates, and histories, remains an unparalleled wine-producing region. It’s not just about the prestige or the labels; it’s about the story each bottle tells of its origin, the year’s climate, and the mastery of its winemakers. The wines we’ve highlighted here are but a snapshot of Bordeaux’s grandeur.
Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a budding wine enthusiast, these Bordeaux selections offer an experience that resonates with tradition, innovation, and sheer artistry. Here’s to the timeless allure of Bordeaux wines – a testament to the region’s enduring legacy and the universal language of good taste. Cheers!