This wine is made with mostly Tempranillo at 90%,
from vines over 40 years old. 10% is Graciano, with maturation taking place in
4 year old American oak barrels, then aged for 4 years. With an additional 6
1/2 years aging in bottle at the vineyard, the alcohol comes in at 12.5%.
This is another mature Spanish beauty, with aromas
of sweet wild berries, sour cherry-plum, dried figs, leather, gentle wood
spices and vanilla notes. On the mouthfeel, light-medium bodied, silky smooth
texture with delicate flavours, more spices than fruit at this stage, balanced
acidity and fine tannins. A medium length on the finish with flavours of plum,
exotic spices and fine silky tannins lingering, this 2001 Spanish vintage is
the gift that keeps on giving, and this Grand Reserva is a good example of a
traditional elegant and refined style of Tempranillo. I prefer this winery,
Viña Ardanza Reserva Especial from the same vintage which I enjoyed last February;
it had a little more structure. But this is still a gorgeous wine, score 91
points.
Purchased
May 11, 2013 at Crush Wine & Spirits in New York City for $41.95
