Bodegas Olarra Reciente Rioja Reserva – sustainable

Bodegas Olarra is located on the outskirts of Logroño, in the heart of the Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin, and within the highly regarded sub-area of Rioja Alta. Since its establishment in 1973, Olarra has been noted for the beauty and complexity of its unique premises thanks to its Y-shaped ground plan and its 111 hexagonal domes. Bodegas Olarra is commonly known as the Cathedral of Rioja. This winery tastefully merges cutting-edge wine-related technologies with the traditional winemaking methods of La Rioja, and as a result, it creates wines with the strictest parameters of quality.

The 2017 Reciente Rioja Reserva, made from 90% Tempranillo with 10% Mazuelo (Carignan) and Graciano, was aged for 16 months in French and American barriques, followed by 20 months in bottle to seamlessly integrate the aromas and flavors.

Today, all the gorgeous spice, leather, and toasted-coconut notes of a great Reserva are deepening. It’s drinking perfectly now, but will stand up in the cellar for years

Fresh and lively, this delicate Rioja delivers flavors of black currants and blueberries in a minor key. The fruit is soft and sweet, while the acidity has a crisp apple edge, giving the wine a plaintive voice, “like a sad love song,” one taster said. The flavors are lasting, ready to pour with roast goat. 91 points. (reviewed at $28)” – Wine & Spirits

“Dark ruby. Ripe red and dark berries, cola, candied licorice and a floral nuance on the perfumed nose. Fleshy red fruit preserve, mocha, vanilla and spicecake flavors spread out steadily though the midpalate, showing good depth and supple texture. Velvety tannins build on a supple, warm finish that echoes the ripe red fruit and floral notes. 91 points.” -Vinous

“Aromas of cardamom and other baking spices blend with peppercorn and blueberry accents to form a unique nose. On the full-bodied palate, flavors of berries and toast carry to the finish. 90 points. (reviewed at $28).” – Wine Enthusiast