What better way to drink in the New Year than with robust reds to warm your body from nose to toes. Now, despite what the media tells us, most of us are still feeling lean in the wallet. So rather than look at the big reds of Bordeaux and Napa, I’m thinking affordable. This January, I’m recommending we all try feeling the sexy, Spanish vibe of Rioja.
Puelles
1999 Red Gran Reserva
Spicy and earthy like a musky men’s cologne, the wine offers a satisfying array of masculine flavors along with tart cherry acidity and soft tannins.
Leza Garcia
2004 Red Reserva
On the palate, the wine is more reminiscent of California than Spain but that vanilla and caramel rounding out the aromas and finish are a part of the wine’s international appeal.
Cuna de Reyes
2007 Red Limited Edition
A little less intense than your average Rioja, this wine is delightfully approachable with blackberry and bramble notes and open tannins.
Vobiscum
2004 Red
Bright acidity balances big flavor on this burly number with pomegranate and black currant fruit, gripping tannin and earthy finish.
Deobriga Coleccion Privada
2007 Red
A wine with good depth, it offers inviting blueberry and bramble aromas, generous black fruit and a respectably lengthy finish.
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