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2001 R. López de Heredia Rioja Blanco Crianza Viña Gravonia - Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alta, Rioja (11/28/2011)
– popped and poured –
– tasted non-blind over a few hours –
NOSE: a bit reductive upon opening, but this did dissipate with air; hint of Strawberry licorice rope; light honey/beeswax character, with a hint of spearmint; expressive.
BODY: golden maize color of medium depth; medium bodied.
TASTE: intensely flavored: lemony; wool; hint of petrol; lemon/citric on the front palate, mineral and hay on mid & rear palates; long finish is full of mineral and wool, as well as the slightest hint of funk, and is of medium to medium-strong intensity; maybe a hint of oxidation, but I wouldn’t say that aspect really stands-out much; zippy acidity; actually a tad tannic upon opening, but said tannins disappeared shortly thereafter; 12.5% alc. not noticeable; very well-balanced and poised; given this producer’s reputation, and the apparent quality of this wine, I feel this would age very nicely — that said, this is drinking fabulously now, and would make for a great match with delicate sea food. Drink now through 2021.
B: 50, 5, 13, 16, 8 = (92 pts.)
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