Spanish Wines

[jatar400]

Need to find the best red wines from la rivera del duero

[dananne]

Two I really enjoy are Emilio Moro's 1999 ($25, WS gave it an 89, FWIW) and Bodegas Valderiz's 1999 ($25, WS 92, again FWIW). The first is drinking nicely right now, but will benefit from some aging. The second is not ready yet -- needs at least 3-5 years. It will be fantastic, I think. Really a powerful wine.

For less expensive, short-term drinkers, go with an Abadia Retuerta Rivola (about $10), or if you like "International-style" wines, try their Selection Especial (about $18).

[dananne]

Don't know why it took me so long to come back to the '99 Emilio Moro, but we finally cracked it on Sunday. No evident bricking, but there was certainly a whiff similar to an aged Rioja on the nose, and similar flavors followed. All secondary stuff -- leather, tobacco, muted fruit. It's not as good as the best aged Rioja, but very nice for a $25 bottle from Ribera del Duero. I only bought 2, so that's all for that one. I may pop the Valderiz next.