Rioja is Spain’s oldest and most important wine region. The first (and for a long time, only) to achieve the coveted “DOCa” status. Of the various quality levels, Reserva and Gran Reserva are the most elite. For Reserva wine, a minimum of 12 months aging in American & French oak is required (this wine had 18), as well as 24 months in bottle (this had 36). The nose is intense with musk and wood against a backdrop of red berries and earthiness. The palate is full, yet easy to drink with savory notes of licorice, spice, and chocolate. Decant this wine and let it open up!