2016 gran reserva, round and on fire - que vive la rioja alta — 4 hours ago
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
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
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!!! — 16 days ago
See my photo on iPhone. Had with Marc’s folks in Leiden. So unique notes with Tempranillo although to me a bit too fruity on the front. But all loved, including W&S, and I agree pleasant finish with minimal tannins. — a month ago
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. — 14 days ago
Called Rioja. Super-dill coconut give-away. — 21 days ago
Great, rich and beautiful. Bought through JAL Mall for ¥9.130. — 14 days ago
Primarily Tempranillo with some Graciano and Mazuelo blended in. Deep ruby color with a garnet rim. Intense black fruit aromas, leather and baking spices. Flavors of blackberry, black plum, baker’s chocolate, cinnamon and tobacco. Nice cedar, dill and vanilla notes on the long and lasting finish. Smooth and very well rounded tannins. Great balance of oak, acidity and alcohol. Full bodied. Fresh, well structured and complex. — 2 months ago
Ray Vanderhoff
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. — 6 days ago