For a bit of a change, I picked up this wine from auction. To be frank, I haven't had the wine that converts me to a one-eyed boardeaux fan. I often find that the nose is very inviting and complex, old rioja and Ribera can be very similar, but I generally find the palate is a bit lacking and ho-hum. I keep trying, but I'm finding better value and more enjoyment from Spain.

Good dark colour without bricking. Lovely complex aroma of dark plums and earth with a bit of leather. Nicely integrated with blackcurrant, plum and a bit of wood showing through on the palate. A little low on acid for my taste, the tannins are quite smooth now - I had expected a bit of toughness. The finish is shorter than I would like. A nice wine with a really good nose, but doesn't have the stuff that gets me going. 89 Pts.

Source: Auction Price Range: $120-$170 Closure: Cork