The “Summa” line is a vineyard selection from 12 hectares located in the three sub-regions and produced in the finest growing seasons. The 2006 Summa Reserva, a field blend of Tempranillo, Mazuelo and Graciano, undergoes malolactic fermentation in barrel and is aged for 14 months in new barrels. It has a refined bouquet with dark cherry, raspberry, hung game and leather that is tightly coiled at the moment. The palate is medium-bodied with a plush, rounded entry. It has good acidity and structure, the finish displaying a touch of allspice and white pepper. It is a finely crafted wine, although I would prefer less oak to allow the terroir to come through. Drink 2014-2019.
My very first visit in Rioja was to Bodegas Olarra, located on the outskirts of Logrono. The estate was established in 1973 and outside the vast Y-shaped winery there are 111 hexagonal “egg box” domes whose function I am still unclear about! This is a large, rather than huge co-operative that oversees a range of worthy Rioja wine that is dependable and thoughtfully made. (See also Bodegas Ondarre that belongs to the same group.) “Cerro Anon” is the more classical side of the Olarra range, according to Javier Martinez de Salinas, a fresh take on Rioja with greater longevity. It generally comes from the older vines from contracted growers from all three sub-regions of Rioja.
Importer: Classical Wines Selections, Stamford, CT; tel. (203) 975-2522.