The 2004 Grand Reserva is Tempranillo blended with 4% Graciano from three vineyards, two planted in 1931 and a third, “La Loma,” planted in 1946 near Briones. It is matured for 26 months in Allier and American barrels. It has a very harmonious bouquet with dark plum, singed leather, sous-bois and game that is very well-defined and classic in style. The palate is medium-bodied with elegant, fine tannins matched with well-judged acidity, the finish is a little dry and savory with hints of cocoa on the long aftertaste. This is an excellent Gran Reserva. Drink now-2020. Located in the village of Briones in Rioja Alta, Bodegas Miguel Merino offer exemplary modern Rioja wine sourced from their own Tempranillo vines planted between 1931 and 1963 at an altitude of 550 meters above sea level. The Tempranillo vines are augmented by small plots of Mazuelo and Graciano that are occasionally bottled separately. The wine is then matured in a combination of new American, French and Hungarian oak. Importer: T. Edward Wines, New York, NY; tel. (212) 233-1504