La Montesa 2011 [Red]
Producer: Palacios Remondo
Region: DOC Rioja

A very nice Rioja, mostly Garnacha (70%) with some Tempranillo (25%) and a little Mazuelo (5%); aged 12 months in mostly French oak. A modern twist to a classic Rioja crianza. Good wine, great value.

Medium dark color, not a lot of oak on the nose with sweet ripe berry fruit (cherry/raspberry), red licorice and dry herbs (thyme/oregano). Medium bodied, smooth and easy to drink with more sweet berry fruit and red licorice on the palate. Nicely integrated spice & oak, perhaps a touch alcoholic, polished tannins on the finish.

[$M]
30 Aug 2014