3/01. Bought in Spain, Jan-01 for $43.
One of the most highly regarded 'new-style' Rioja made by one of the oldest wineries.
COLOR: Medium dark ruby-red, slight clearing around the rim.
NOSE: Full-fledged spectrum of aromas and bouquet. Semi-ripe black fruit, spices and plenty of wood. At first the oak was too dominant, but after a while the effect lessened and nose became deep, harmonious and and very impressive.
TASTE: Big mouthfilling wine that is very focused and expressive. Plenty of fruit as well as concentrated winyness. Wood flavors, nice complexity, good acidity and discernible but round tannins. An excellent food-wine, will go especially well with hearty flavorful dishes.
LENGTH: Medium-long aftertaste that carries the fruity flavors for about a minute.
TEXTURE & BALANCE: Full-bodied wine, vigorous and full of flesh. Good grip, excellent backbone, and well proportioned balance. More vigorous than delicate, but complex and interesting with lots of personality.
OVERALL: Very fine. The least ready of all 1994 Rioja I have tasted so far. Will improve as it softens up in years to come.

MARK: 18/20.

BUY MORE? Yes.

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Copyright 1996-2003.
Jacob "Yak" Shaya.