La Rioja Alta Vina Alberdi Rioja Reserva 2018

The Bodega was formed in 1890 as a partnership of 5 quality-conscious growers keen to exploit the export potential for well-made, ‘modern’ Rioja. At this time, French vineyards were ravaged by phylloxera, and connoisseurs were having to look elsewhere for supplies of fine wine. Rioja, with its excellent climate and soils, had already attracted attention, and experiments with Bordeaux-style vinification and barrique-aging were proving very successful. Medium-depth, cherry red, with a clean, bright orange rim. 100% Tempranillo, its nose is intense, with dominating ripe fruit and strawberry jam rounding off the background notes of cocoa, vanilla, caramel, and smoke from oak ageing. A pleasant acidity and soft, round tannins provide a very pleasant, medium-bodied mouthfeel. Intense finish, with persistent hints of strawberry jam, cocoa and vanilla and a seductive final acidity that entices you to carry on drinking.