2012 Viña Real Reserva Rioja (1.5L)

SKU #1544893 94 points James Suckling

A deep and aromatic red showing ripe-blackberry, rosemary and slate character. Hints of bark, too. Full-bodied and round with firm and concentrated tannins in addition to a long, refreshing yet subtle finish with hints of tea. Delicious and balanced. (12/2016)

92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2012 Viña Real Reserva is a blend of mostly Tempranillo with Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano from Rioja Alavesa; it fermented in stainless steel and aged in new oak barriques for 22 months with rackings every four months. I found the whole Viña Real range pretty closed and backward, serious, with moderate oak and pretty good balance. There is good ripeness without any excess or signs of heat (it was a very dry year), with some floral aromas coming out with time in the glass. Fine and elegant, quite a surprise. (LG) (8/2016)

92 points Vinous

Bright ruby-red. Intense, oak-spiced cherry and raspberry scents, along with suggestions of musky earth, tobacco and vanilla. Sweet, seamless and penetrating in the mouth, offering intense red fruit and floral flavors that deepen steadily on the back half. In a graceful style, but there's deceptive power and depth of flavor here as well. Closes very long and sappy; smooth tannins frame the sweet, oak-kissed fruit. (JR) (5/2017)

92 points Wine Enthusiast

Compact, almost gritty aromas of tree bark and herbal berry fruits require time to breathe. After necessary airing, this is elegant and fresh on the palate, but full in body. Herbal plum and berry flavors are leathery, spicy and suggest tomato as this transitions to a firm, racy finish. (MS) (12/2017)

90 points Wine Spectator

This perfumed red delivers lively cherry, berry, vanilla and spicy flavors in a supple texture, backed by light, firm tannins and orange peel acidity. Expressive and graceful. (TM) (9/2018)