The 1978 Rioja Gran Reserve 890 reveals a light ruby color with orange at the edge. In contrast to the weak color, there is an exceptionally perfumed bouquet and rich, sweet fruit that cascades across the palate. The wine exhibits a mature, classic nose of gravel, lead pencil, sweet oak, and gobs of ripe black-cherry and curranty fruit that blossoms after 10-15 minutes in the glass. Expansive, with medium to full body, this penetratingly fragrant, concentrated wine is never heavy or tannic. It is a gentle, exceptionally complex, harmonious wine that is one of the finest mature Riojas I have ever drunk. While at its apogee, it should hold, where well-cellared, for another 10+ years. Impressive! La Rioja Alta's Gran Reservas are renowned as Spain's greatest examples of Rioja. They always possess a deceptively light ruby color with considerable amber, sometimes rust at the edge. Their feeble colors belie their exceptional intensity, great aromatics, and sweet, long, concentrated palates. As I have stated many times, La Rioja Alta is a classic producer of traditionally-styled Rioja - long cask aging and wines that are close to full maturity when released. Importer: Europvin, USA, Watertown, MA; tel. (617) 924-7620

A fine example of a mature Rioja. The mahogany color is still vibrant, and the flavors are complex, with coffee, leather and spice notes and enough bright cherry fruit for balance. It's on the plateau; drink now. 1,100 cases made.??–null??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add