2016 Roda Reserva Rioja, Bodegas Roda, Rioja, Spain

Established over 30 years ago Bodegas Roda is one of Rioja's most forward-thinking producers creating wonderful wine using the most modern technology. Tended by renowned Rioja expert Agustín Santolaya, President and Supervising Winemaker, the Roda vineyards consist of 28 immaculate blocks of old Tempranillo, Garnacha and Graciano vines, located in the best ecosystems of La Rioja Alta.

14.5% ABV. 

Deep, bright and ripe cherry colour. The nose is expressive with perfectly integrated oak—sensations of ripe red fruits. Behind the red fruit, there is a series of sweet spices that resemble fine cinnamon and cloves. Fruits and spices are in perfect harmony here. The palate is voluminous and full, exhibiting fine tannins. Cherry is the protagonist, leaving a fresh, delicate and very long finish. 

Blackberry and bark with some black-tea undertones on the nose. The firm, fine and polished tannins are very long and very pretty and add tension and finesse to this wine. Medium body and a lovely texture. Drink or hold. 95/100 points. James Suckling

There`s a lot more depth, complexity and harmony in the 2016 Roda than in the more challenging 2017 I tasted next to it. Here, the red fruit profile is more obvious and the oak feels much better integrated, plus the wine has more freshness. The palate is medium to full-bodied with fine tannins and very good balance. This was produced with Tempranillo, 9% Graciano and 6% Garnacha from 30+-year-old vines fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in French barriques (50% new, 50% second use) for 14 months. 93/100 points. Luis Gutiérrez (Wine Advocate)