Viña Cubillo Crianza Rioja Tempranillo Blend

Another classic example of this entry-level wine in the portfolio of Lopez de Heredia, the 2011 Viña Cubillo is a commendable, traditional Rioja - even if it is not quite at the level of the superb 2010 that punched way above its price point.

Featuring an overwhelmingly vanilla-led nose (a little too sweet, perhaps), the palate follows up with the savoury profile so characteristic of the LdH reds, a medley of dried cherry, cranberry, and orange bitters. The tannins are very supple here - barely perceptible - and the acidity is quite low, so this is a wine that drinks very well now and may not develop much further in bottle.

Overall, splendid.

Nariz: cereza, ciruela, rosas secas, violetas, tierra, cuero

Boca: Tanino M+, Acidez M, Alcohol M/M+

Oak and new leather on the nose initially with a burst of fruit coming later. There’s some outstanding smokiness coming through that really elevates things. The layered aromas continue with ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, and raspberry goodness. A wallop of blue and black berries with clove cigarettes saying hello.

Primarily Tempranillo and Garnacho with a smattering of Graciano and Mazuelo. Aged for three years in barrels and fully mature at this point even though I do believe it has great longevity in store. Highly expressive and checking all the boxes, this is just plain sitting above other, similarly priced wines. That smokiness is prevalent on the tongue along with a bit of vanilla and orange peel. The fruit on the palate follows the nose. Incredible spice leading to the medium length finish. This may be a little brother of a wine but there’s not much else little about it.

Oaky, not too acidic, vanilla accents, nice finish.

I still have some lingering, messed up taste buds from COVID, and my nose is only running at about 35%, but the cherries are bold, the tannins are silky and there’s a nice lingering acidity, with bold notes of cedar and the underside of leather. Really a perfect pairing for any tomato based sauce, tonight, Bucatini all'Amatriciana with spaghetti squash, grated pecorino, Shitake mushrooms and capers. Really a perfect food pairing.

Concentrated dried cherry and red fruits with some cigar and leather. Medium, slightly sweet finish backed up by some tannin. Drinking nice now

Really hit its stride the 5th day open

Decanted... one of the best riojas I’ve had. Amazing with steak.

A very nice rioja blend. There’s something about Spanish reds that are deeper and mysterious than other old world classics. It’s perfectly fruity, complex, and structured all at once.

Red cherry. Full. Nice mouth. Crowd pleaser.