Been drinking way too many of these lately, but they KEEP popping up in places I go on lists and so hard to resist. Paid pretty dearly for this one–the most so far–about 3X decent retail, but had to do it. Way bigger nose than the 07, all flush with beautiful American oak and rich fruit.

Typically lean and mellow on the palate, but a vicious monster lurks inside: absolutely textbook balance and restraint dripping with subtle beauty. A 50-year wine for sure.

2007 R. LOPEZ DE HEREDIA Vina Tondonia ‘Reserva’ Temp/GR/Graciano/Mazuelo 75/15/5/5 Rioja Spain 13.0

www.lopezdeheredia.com/indexgb.html