2001 Rioja Crianza
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Tasting notes
Full red. Plum, strawberry and sexy, smoky sweet oak scents on the nose. Lush on entry, then round, ripe and dry, with plum and strawberry flavors. A plush, rather suave wine with enough material for its oak. Finishes smooth and persistent. Very generous Rioja, from crop levels that were reportedly lower than in the past at this estate.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
I have served friends the brilliant 2001 Crianza (98% Tempranillo and 2% Graciano) just to prove what great wine can be purchased even with a weak dollar. It is a complex, elegant, deep ruby/purple-tinged offering boasting a sweet nose of lead pencil shavings, white chocolate, blackberries, and cherries. Medium-bodied with supple tannin as well as admirable structure, definition, and ripeness, it can be enjoyed now and over the next 5-8 years. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates From Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767
The 2001 Rioja (100% Tempranillo aged 6 months in American oak barrels) is a light to medium-bodied, richly fruity effort displaying notes of tobacco smoke, cherries, and loamy soil. Enjoy it over the next 2-3 years. This is an excellent value. This winery consistently makes the pages of this publication’s best buy section regardless of vintage. Importer: Jorge Ordonez, Fine Estates from Spain, Dedham, MA; tel. (781) 461-5767
Medium red. Mellow aromas of plum, redcurrant and nutty, smoky oak. Supple and easygoing, with flavors of plum, currant, pepper and spice. A fat, smooth wine with modest nuance, but good ripeness and texture for the gentle price.