Tasting Notes - Spain, Rioja

2003 R. Lopez De Heredia, Rioja Crianza, Vina Tondonia

Clear, light ruby colour with a light rim; black cherry, roasted meat, a little smokey oak and a hint of oxidation on the nose. The palate has slightly tart black cherry, more roasted meat, spice and the oxidation which fits in very well, with a medium+ finish that shows some dry oak and a touch of leather, which developed with time in the decanter. A light/medium-bodied wine with a soft, silky texture and rounded, supple tannins this is made in a more traditional (non-Parker) style that won't appeal to everyone, but I find very refreshing. (04/10)

2000 Marques de Murrieta Castello Y Gay Rioja Gran Reserva

Mahogany red lightly fading rim - nicely developing nose, black cherry undergrowth and touch smokey - soft tannins good weight nice broad palate and pleasant spicy cherry dry finish - looks good but plenty of life left

1989 R.Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Rioja Blanco Reserva

Oxidative nutty almost amontillado nose, intense palette with bracing acidity, very broad mouthfilling flavours of honey and lemon much like a good old Ozzy semillon, but very alive and fresh with utterly incredible length. This is a blend of 90% Viura and 10% Malvasia and has spent 6 years in barrel - the Gran Reserva apparently spending an amazing 9.5 years in barrel - crazy wine but well worth a look.