Style Light red Old World Country Spain Price $10
Vintage tasted 2009 Grapes Tempranillo, Garnacha
Website www.aldeanueva.com

Overview Today’s Riojas are capable of being earthy, barnyardy, thoroughly traditional wines, or aggressively cherry-flavored and jammy. Unlike last year’s fruit-forward effort, this one occupies a nice middle ground, with intense fruit flavors balanced by darker, richer undertones. It’s a nice transition for New World drinkers trying to gain an appreciation for the less accessible Old World style, as well as a great example of the range and versatility of the Rioja region.

Nose It has “crazy cherry,” according to one blind taster, as well as an earthy, almost muddy aroma.

Mouth More fruit here (so rich that it’s bordering on jammy), along with herbaceous flavors and some green pepper.