Even better on the nose than the 1958,the 1956 Reserva demonstrates great vigor and fruit intensity: wild strawberry, mint, antique mahogany bureau and salted licorice. To be truthful, the palate does not quite match the precocity of the palate. Its vigor is driven by the crisp acidity and it has a beguiling gentle build towards the cedar , dried herbs and bitter cherry. It is a sedate, utterly charming Rioja that is probably approaching the end of its drinking plateau.
These wines can crop up at auction and on top restaurant lists since the estate has comparatively healthy reserves.
Importer: Southern Wine & Spirits; www.southernwine.com