Rioja

Ramon Bilbao Crianza 2004

I'm always on the lookout for a quality Rioja at a good price, and one seems to have landed in my lap here. Ramon Bilbao are a fairly traditional producer in Rioja, they also have a more modern high expression offering but the focus is on the traditional wines. This one is 100% Tempranillo from Rioja Alta, Haro and surounds to be specific.  Following fermentation it lives in American oak for 14 months and another 8 months in bottle before being released.

Notes of mocha and vanilla on the nose with cherry, mulberry and cola. Open and ready to go from the start. Plenty fluffy tannins provide texture, while there is good balance and a long finish, if a bit drying. A clean palate of cherry and mulberry fruit, a touch of balsamic, minerals and bay leaf. A bargain for drinking this winter, but it could do 5 years in the cellar if you can keep your hands off it. 90 Pts.

Source: Broadway Liquor Distributors Price: $25 Closure: Conventional Cork

Web: www.bodegasramonbilbao.es