Gloria de Antonio Alcaraz 2007 [Red]
Producer: Bodegas Launa
Region: DOC Rioja

Only 4,500 bottles were made of this 100% Tempranillo by this small producer in the Rioja Alavesa sub-region. A very pleasant surprise: well made, good balance and very Rioja. Highly recommendable and very drinkable.

Deep, dark bing cherry color. Great nose with well ripened fruit (plum/blueberry), toasted oak, baled hay/straw, chocolate and a hint of spice (nutmeg). Nicely concentrated, yet smooth on the palate: ample fruit (blueberries), minerals, firm tannins (perhaps a touch "woody"), but balanced nonetheless. Great length, excellent wine.

[$M]
11 June 2011