2013 Hacienda López de Haro Reserva ($16)
This Rioja Reserva is a blend of 90% Tempranillo, 5% Granacha and 5% Graciano. It's grown in vineyards located near the heart of La Rioja, surrounded by the Sierra de Cantabria mountain and the river Ebro.
A Rioja Reserva wine must spend a minimum of one year in the barrel, and cannot be sent to market until a full three years after vintage. But, this Reserva spent a full 20 months in French and American oak.
This Rioja has bright, fruit-forward red and black fruit flavors while remaining on the lighter side of medium-bodied. The oak aging helps give complexity to soften the fruitiness. It has a nice easy finish with just a hint of spice.
In Rioja, "Reserva" truly has meaning and is certainly worth seeking out. This is one of those. And, while many Rioja Reserva wines can go well above $20, this one is a great value. Look for this one. You will enjoy it!
Look for the red Rioja Reserva label to ensure authenticity.
Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this wine at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Sample provided by Rebekah Polster 401 West Communications and supplied by Vintae (www.vintae.com)