I seem to have missed tasting the 2002 vintage of this wine but no matter, it was not such a strong year in Rioja anyway and I’m looking forward to the 2004.

An interesting and quite complex mix of smells - black cherry and red fruits, pepper, pencil, vanilla, earth and surely a bit of a smoky bretty character. It’s quite full bodied in the context of Rioja with red fruits and a bit of black cherry, plenty of pepper and spice, a damp earthy character, some dried herbs and vanilla oak. It has coarse open weave grainy tannins and quite tart acidity. Good slightly tannic finish of spicy red fruits and dried herb. Not a smooth operator like the 2001, it’s more rustic and rugged, although still very enjoyable nonetheless.

Other vintages : 2001

Rated : 90 Points
Tasted : Apr08
Alcohol : 14%
Closure : Cork
Drink : 2009 - 2013+