The 2005 Gran Reserva goes back to the more strict classicism with balsamic notes of incense, leather, smoked meats and some spices. The medium-bodied palate reveals a round and polished wine, with sweet tannins that is ready to go. Drink 2014-2016. Martinez Lacuesta is one of the classical names from Haro, which was created in 1895 and now, 118 years later, is a one-million-bottle operation still run by the same family. Some stray bottles from (extremely) old vintages can be found in shops or restaurants and are well worth drinking (I’m thinking of a superb 1928 here). On top of their current (mostly) classical wines that are quite consistent if not terribly exciting, they also produce delicious vermouth, which after all is nothing but aromatized wine. Various American importers: Serendipity Wines (Texas), Dionysis Wines (Washington), Arborways Imports (Mass.) and Spanish Wine Collection (New York).

Cedar, tobacco and coffee notes frame dried cherry, herbal and mineral flavors in this traditional red. Shows a polished texture, revealing some density and a clean, spicy finish. Firm and fresh. Drink now through 2018. 800 cases made, 80 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add