The 2008 Reserva is 100% Tempranillo from 30+-year-old vines. It spent 18 months in American and French oak, which may be the reason it is more austere, slightly drier and less fruit-driven than the other cuvees. A dark ruby color is followed by spicy tertiary and complex elements, and the wine narrows out on the palate. It is certainly a good wine, and readers who prefer more aged, austere reds will like it more than I.
Sierra Cantabria, which was founded in 1957, produces a range of Rioja wines, some of which are priced higher than the $25 limit for this report. One of my favorite producers from Jorge Ordonez, their wines are nearly always well-made, and represent terrific value.
Importer: Jorge Ordonez Selections,Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767: email:corporate@jorgeordonez.com