HACIENDA LOPEZ DE HARO RIOJA RESERVA 2005 SPAIN
By: Ed "The Wine Guy"
From north-central Spain comes this very satisfying red blend: 90% Tempranillo, 5% Garnacha (adds body and acidity), 5% Graciano (adds aromas). This wine is typical of the Rioja wine style which features oak as an essential component. The designation Riserva means that the wine has aged for at least three years, one of them in oak. The vintage is 2005, almost 10 years old, and I dare say that it will drink well for another 5 or more years. It is medium-bodied, concentrated, soft, exhibiting aromas and flavors of spicy dark fruit (black currants, plums), a touch of leather, and a hint of vanilla.