Classic, classic, classic – it doesn’t get much better than this developed, yet still bright, mostly Tempranillo wine from benchmark Rioja winery, Lopez de Heredia.

The Cubillo vineyard has vines that are about 40 years old and the 65% Tempranillo is augmented by a traditional blend with Garnacha (25), Mazuelo, and Graciano (10).  This is the lightest and youngest of the Lopez de Heredia red wines and is often enjoyed much earlier than we did this one – but it was outstanding nonetheless (we opened it at 11 years old).

Translucent garnet, it has developed aromas of mushroom, oak, bark, and deeply composted leaves. The dry palate is both soft and complex showing mocha nibs, cigar box, pastrami and walnut.  There’s even still some bright fruit – black plum and cranberry.  Spicy and candied, it has fabulous acidity and a lengthy
finish.

It was the perfect bottle to bring out for charcuterie and hanging out on a Friday.  If you have a bottle of this, enjoy now as it’s drinking perfectly.