89 2001 Castillo LaBastida Rioja Reserva 8/23/09 ($16)
14% alc
Color: Medium garnet. (3.0) Bouquet: Cedar and cassis with an interesting herbal tea component. Aromatic and elegant. (3.0) Body: Solid middleweight with good tannic structure, acidity and fruit as part of a very well balanced frame. Coats the mouth nicely. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet with impressive liveliness and persistence for the price. (3.0) Finish: Parallels flavor with good length and some subtlety. Cedar lingers. Could show a bit more fruit here. (2.5)
Overall: Fully developed Rioja with elegance, cedar, fruit, balance and a persistent backbone. Nuanced and impressive for the price. Excellent buy. Drink now. (14.5)
Copyright © 2006 - 2009, Paul DeRose , WineOutpost.com