Spain goes Sideways

A fun taste off showing some older Rioja's to see if they were still holding up.

• 2003 Bodegas Sierra Cantabria Rioja Reserva 86 Points

  Spain, La Rioja, Rioja

  (Tasted Blind) Mid-garnet transitioning to mahogany, suggesting some age. Evolved aromas of coal dust, cola tonic, dried red fruit, and liquorice all point to a wine past its prime with a hint of aldehyde creeping in. The palate is sinewy on entry with baked fruit, earth and liquorice notes. Light to medium-bodied, the wine has a cedarwood and tobacco note with a sprinkle of spice. However, it feels tired and lacks vibrancy, with the red fruit character fading, running more to a dried raspberry. There’s a drying sensation throughout, with a slightly hot, warming finish. Has seen its best days.
  Made from older vines 100% Tempranillo and matured for 14 months in used French and American oak, followed by 4 months in new French oak before bottling unfiltered.

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• 2000 J. & F. Lurton Toro El Albar Crianza 84 Points

  Spain, Castilla y León, Toro

  (Tasted Blind) 
Some higher tones notes at first before the bouquet opens to stewed red berries, baked plums, wet tobacco and spicecake. The nose intensifies with air towards signs of evolution with smoke, charcoal, ferruginous (iron-rich) notes and blood-like qualities.
  A sweetness on entry the wine does feel rather tired with prominent signs of evolution as the fruit fades in glass and starts to lack direction or vibrancy. On the upside there is a mineral grip, but overall, the wine feels tough and fatigued.


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• 2018 Torre de Oña Rioja Finca San Martin Crianza 90 Points

  Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alavesa, Rioja

  (Tasted Blind) Pretty purple-crimson in colour, the nose is lifted with attractive penetrating aromas of maraschino cherry, tobacco, spice, and a hint of vanilla and coconut.
  A medium-bodied wine that is smooth on entry, washing over the palate with ripe Bing cherry and sweet red berries and infused with a bright cherry-cola character. There’s a sweeping mocha-chocolate and guarana flavour that adds depth, and the wine is balanced by lively acidity. Layered, the oak influence is subtle, allowing the vibrant, energetic fruit to shine through.
  Soft, supple tannins caress the palate as it lingers to a long farewell. A very drinkable wine!

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They weren't so introduced to a younger Toro before we opened more!