2008 Rioja Gran Reserva

The 2008 Gran Reserva had a slightly shorter élevage than the average Gran Reserva here, perhaps because it was a cooler, more challenging vintage. There is a slight reduction here, so decanting in advance might not be a bad idea. The palate shows a little more austere, with some pointy tannins and an earthy feeling. This is not as polished and elegant as other vintages, but it's certainly a wine of character, slightly rustic, but true to its origin and vintage. It was bottled in early 2011. Some 7,200 bottles were produced.