2012 Castillo de Viñas Reserva Rioja

Staff Reviews

JM

John Majeski

John Majeski

Be forewarned: Do not don one of the unwieldy medieval helmets shown on the front label while attempting to drink this robust Rioja, as it's far too tasteworthy to waste a single drop! Attired in deep red hues, this forward-drinking, effusive Reserva spent 18 months in both American and French oak. It resonates with fragrant aromas of black cherries, vanilla and raspberries, revealing a layered palate of riper dark fruits embellished with a tinge of earth and char. Enjoy this now or over the next decade.

Notes

Our newest DI Rioja comes from Rioja Baja, where the climate is a bit warmer and more Mediterranean. The Garnacha is arguably the best in all Rioja, the Graciano ripens more easily and shows great promise, and Tempranillo, planted on choice parcels like they are here, is also quite good. Castillo de Viñas was a label put together for us by one of our contacts in Rioja, and is made by the Burgo Viejo winery, a group of growers who have some great quality vineyards in the area. The Reserva quality fruit, combined with a warmer, more structured vintage, make this bottling a bit more deeply pitched, with darker fruit and the ability to beautifully complement a nice cut of meat or lamb chops. Solid and super tasty. A blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano.