Cool earth and dry leather aromas open into fleshy dark plums. On the palate, cedar, blackberry and lightly blackened meat fade gently over a long finish. Even though this is a full, rich wine, it has an elegant structure.
— K.F.
(11/1/2002)
Though not as rich as Viña Izadi’s 1997 Expresión, this wine still has a lot to like: aromas of toasted bagel, dried apple and orange peel that are followed by flavors of cranberry, raspberry, clove and fennel
— M.M.
(9/1/2002)
No cookie-cutter white, this 80% Viura and 20% Malvasia barrel-aged Rioja has vibrant aromas and flavors. The Malvasia’s decidedly orange cast plays off the nuttier Viura and wood notes. Closes dry and toasty, decently long, with a faint bitter almond note. Unique, and tasty for drinking now. —M.M.
— M.M.
(9/1/2002)
Aromas are of tree bark, haystack and dried berries. The palate is fairly light and bold, courtesy of zippy acidity and forward cherry and raspberry flavors. A touch of oaky butter comes up on the dry finish.
— M.S.
(10/1/2003)
A nosing delivers pure oak extract and lemon custard, all of which is confirmed by the “barrel fermented” notation on the label. Why so much wood as been thrown at this wine is a question worth asking. Heavy toast flavors dominate the palate and wood resin seems to be all that’s left at the end. Obtuse and oaky, yet still fresh and round in the mouth.
— M.S.
(10/1/2003)