A week or so ago, I was browsing the Spanish wines aisle and had to ask myself why I seldom buy a bottle of Rioja.
Since the Castillo Labastida, Rioja Reserva 2001 was offered at an attractive price and I heard good things about it, I took the plunge and purchased it.
I was glad I did after I poured the first glass.
Made of 100% Tempranillo grapes, you will love its deep color, rich fruit and long finish, it is not huge but rather has staying power. Its flavors linger as opposed to wines that hit you and die in no time.
Technically ‘Rioja Reserva’ should be aged for 3 years, this one does it in two.
The winemaker is Manuel Ruiz Pedreira of Bodegas Labastida whose other labels are Solaguen and Manuel Quintano.
British wine merchant Laithwaites describes it as "fruity ripe flavours with touches of chocolate, oak and spice with a
good structured finish that keeps going. Perfect with roast lamb,
risottos and tapas".
You should be able to find it in the $14 to $18 range.
Related: Red wine from a Beloved Castle, Castillo de Monseran (Wine Blogging Wednesday #35)