90 points and a "Smart Buy" designation from Wine Spectator Advance: "Fresh, firm and long. This balanced red offers crisp cherry, cola, vanilla, tobacco and fresh herb flavors, supported by well-integrated tannins that give way to a spicy floral finish. Drink now through 2011." (3/31/08 Issue) 90 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (no tasting note given.) There are a lot of different styles of Rioja made. Some are sweet and fruity, some are earthy and leathery, some are full of the wares of extended aging in oak, but this one seems to be a perfect blend of all of the above. The nose has hints of sandalwood and clay dust backing a forceful dollop of black cherry fruit. This balance of fruity and earthy flavors is what drives the wine from front to back. The cigar smoke lacings are a perfect foil to the black plum, and the crushed Marionberry is exactly what the layers of licorice need to not be overbearing. This is precise in its balance and a tremendous value in the world of "Reserva" Rioja. (Bryan Brick, K&L Wine Merchants)
Below is a listing of the wine review scores we frequently reference in our notes. While these sources remain an excellent source of information, we always recommend that you trust your own palate. Scores in these publications often represent the personal taste of an individual critic, which may not always coincide with your own. We have a huge team of excellent wine professionals that can match wines you've had in the past with new arrivals that meet your flavor profile.
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2001 La Rioja Alta "Viña Ardanza" Reserva Especial Rioja $29.99
2008 Mas Codina Cava Brut Reserva Penedès $12.99
1999 Bodegas Puelles Gran Reserva Rioja $19.99
2001 Marques de Legarda Gran Reserva Rioja $29.99
2001 Lopez de Heredia "Viña Tondonia" Reserva Rioja $39.99
