The 2011 Puerta Vieja Crianza is completely oxidized with aromas of baked apples and compost, the sign of a dead Rioja. Two bottles were uncorked and they were the same. 750,000 bottles.

The 2010 Puerta Vieja Crianza is cherry-colored, with a nose of licorice and ripe fruit, a hint of leather, good integration of the wood and clean flavors. An agreeable Crianza at an agreeable price. Drink 2014-2017. Bodegas Riojanas produced some spectacular vintages of Vina Albina and Monte Real in the old times, and the 1942 Albina remains one of the best Riojas I’ve ever drunk, but unfortunately today’s wines are not at the same level. My favorite was a semi-sweet white that reminded me a little bit of one historical semi-sweet white from Rioja, the 1939 Corona from CVNE. Imported by Bodegas Riojanas USA Corp., Hoboken, NJ; tel. (201) 401-5636

Gamy notes dominate the modest black cherry fruit in this firm, rustic red. 2,000 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add