Gran Sasso

Mendoza Vineyards

Gran Reserva Mendoza Malbec 2017

Dark ruby/purple color. Aromas of blueberries, chocolate and coffee. Blueberry fruit flavors are complimented by hints of Asian spices, dark chocolate, figs, plums and black cherries. Slight note of blood/iodine on the long lasting finish. Medium bodied, solid balance and silky tannins. Thanks for sharing, Matt A. — 17 days ago

Bob and Tom liked this

Marqués de Murrieta

Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial Rioja Tempranillo Blend 2017

Exceptional interpretation of Ribera del Duero — 4 days ago

Ted, Bob and 2 others liked this

Viña Real (CVNE)

Gran Reserva Rioja Tempranillo Blend 2018

Called Rioja. Super-dill coconut give-away. — a month ago

Tom, Scott@Mister and 1 other liked this

Campo Viejo

Gran Reserva Rioja Tempranillo 2016

Sight: Completely opaque, blood red, slight tawny. On nose: fruit forward, tobacco. On mouth: very smooth, full bodied, was difficult to taste fruits but strong oak and earthy presence. Might not have been at correct temperature. — a month ago

R. López de Heredia

Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva Rioja Tempranillo Blend 2004

If you know, you know.

Just eying the bottle evokes a sense of mysticism—these are increasingly rare sightings, relics of a winemaking philosophy nearly lost to time. Opening it after a recent visit to the winery feels familiar, almost fated.

The color holds strong despite its 20+ years, with a core of garnet that defies its age. On the nose, memory takes over: the scent of the underground cellar, the mold-covered walls, the rustic perfume of wood and brick. Then come the classics notes—dried rose petals, red berries, and a whisper of spice.

The palate surprises with more volume than the bottle’s vintage muster’s. Lively red fruit mingles with savory earth and warm spice, carried by silken tannins. The finish lingers with a trace of wet oak, grounding the experience in place and time.

This is a wine of lineage, character, and quiet perseverance—a style too uncommon today. Most importantly, it was opened, shared, and deeply enjoyed.
— a month ago

Paul, Dave and 10 others liked this

Baron de Ley

Gran Reserva Rioja Tempranillo 2018

A big Rioja. Surprisingly ready to drink, tanins have softened, still powerful. Dark garnet color, aromatic nose of earth and herbs. Round Palate balanced and tasty. Recommended. Great VfM. — 25 days ago

C.V.N.E. (Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España)

Imperial Gran Reserva Rioja Tempranillo Blend 2012

Great, rich and beautiful. Bought through JAL Mall for ¥9.130. — 24 days ago

Gramona

Imperial Gran Reserva Cava Blend 2018

Vintage 2018 | — 9 days ago

Tom, Eric and 4 others liked this

Ruffino

Riserva Ducale Oro Gran Selezione Chianti Classico Sangiovese 2020

Mo
9.2

This wine tastes fantastic right now, but I agree with WS’s assessment that it could benefit from years in the bottle. Purchased on sale, $35, a steal.

WS: 94. This is broad and evokes plum, cherry, earth and iron aromas and flavors, picking up a salty taste while evolving on the palate. Supple in texture and nicely balanced, this is driven by lively acidity, with a light grip of tannins on the extensive finish. Sangiovese and Merlot. Best from 2026 through 2042. 22,000 cases made, 10,000 cases imported.

Bruce Sanderson
Issue Date: May 21, 2025
Release Price: $42/750mL
— 3 days ago

Bodegas Faustino

Gran Reserva Faustino I Rioja Tempranillo Blend 2010

v10. Very good! Toasty vanilla and tobacco nose. Bright, rich, dark blackberry, plum and tar fruit. Long, bold, slightly astringent tanned leather finish. Still aging!!! — a month ago