Viña Alarde Reserva Rioja Tempranillo Blend

Toast, baking spices, soft. I like it.

Light, drinkable.

Very smooth and buttery. Total Wine

SUPER earthy/minerally. Tart cherry and slightly unripe red fruits after it started to open up. Wasn't getting a ton of acidity (just enough, though) and tannins were very light and soft. Not a lot of spice- maybe a hint. Very savory, almost saline (from the minerals, probably). Found this one very interesting and would definitely buy again.

Very tart. Unmistakably alcoholic. Clumsy, I'm predicting a headache.

If you have a chance to get the Reserva do it. Was torn between the 2008 and the 2009. Both rated very high, with a tiny price difference, so I went with the '08.

Great legs, great nose, and great flavor! I'm headed back to the store to get a few more bottles for that special dinner party.

This has to be one of the 5 best wines I've tasted this year! 8>)

Full, fruity red Rioja. Quite easily drunk on its own but equally nice with some red meat.

Hints of florals and spices. Starts out smooth with a nice finish. Great price

Gentle with classic spicy Rioja taste

Tamed and paired well with charred pork tenderloin.. Great value for the price ; medium body light cedar and raspberry