Rioja,1998RedWine

Sans

Rare and fully mature Reserva from top producer Remírez de Ganuza, rated highly from the excellent 1998 vintage.

Appearance:Deep garnet with a bricked rim, showing its age gracefully.

Nose:Evolved and expressive, with aromas of dried cherry, cassis, and redcurrant layered over complex notes of cigar box, leather, cedar, black olive, balsamic reduction, and toasted spice. Hints of graphite and earthy forest floor emerge with air.

Palate:Medium-bodied and beautifully integrated. The fruit has softened into savoury complexity, with flavours of dried fig, sour plum, tobacco leaf, and roasted herbs. Oak influence is well-resolved, offering nuances of vanilla, cocoa, and sandalwood. Silky tannins and bright acidity provide a refined structure, leading to a long, lingering finish.

Conclusion:This is a fully mature Rioja Reserva, drinking beautifully now, with all the hallmarks of traditional winemaking and careful élevage. A fine match for roasted lamb, aged Manchego, or wild mushroom dishes.