Rioja

Telmo Rodriguez Lanzaga 2003

After having an unsuccessful attempt at the Torresilo, I cracked this open and put it in a decanter for an hour.  Lanzaga is Telmo's middle Rioja wine, with LZ bellow it and Altos de Lanzaga at the top.  While it isn't that important really, I love Telmo's labels.  They just seem very odd, striking and very Spanish. Lanzaga is made from 100% Tempranillo that sees some quality French oak. 

The nose opens up straight away with dusty earth, red berries, leather, lavender and hints of animal.  Modern in style with good structure in the mouth with nice balance.  Intense, tart red cherry with cola and chocolate notes followed up by some toasty oak.  The tannins are a bit hard to start with, they soften and become chalky and friendly with some air.  The acid is just right.  A great way to start the year.  91 Pts.

Source: Randalls Cost: $42 Closure: Conventional Cork