Solagüen Reserva 1995 [Red]
Producer: Unión de Cosecheros de Labastida
Region: DOC Rioja

Established in 1964, Unión de Cosecheros in the Rioja Alavesa town of Labastida, unlike the typical coop designed to turn its members grapes into wine to sell in bulk, is a well respected producer of quality, classic barrel aged Riojas. 1995 was a very good vintage, and this "reserva" is showing exceptionally well right now, and it's a good "food wine" to accompany dishes based on beef or lamb.

Medium depth cherry red color, lightish but showing no appreciable signs of age. A nice, [if somewhat rustic] nose is clearly Rioja with red/black berry fruit, vanilla/spice and a hint of anise. The palate's clean with ripe berries & spice, well integrated oak, crisp acidity, noticable [yet smooth] tannins and respectable length. Very good.

[$M]
2 Sept 2001