2001 Pago del Encinar Lacrimus Rioja Crianza

[dananne]

Blend of 85% Tempranillo and 15% Graciano.

Deep purple in the glass, and very simple grapey flavors laced with oak. Not much here, and it was disappointing. Didn't improve with decanting. Overpaid at $19 at a local gourmet/specialty store here in Atlanta. Alc. 13.5% Obviously will not look for it again, especially as there are so many better Crianzas coming out of Rioja at or far below this price point (Artadi, LAN, etc.).

[hotwine]

Look for Palacio de Sada, a blend of 40% each Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and 20% Tempranillo. A steal at Sam's Club for $8 and change.

[dananne]

Thanks for the tip -- I'll be on the lookout for it. While we're giving Spanish bargain tips, here's one for you as compensation: 2002 Bodegas Aragonesas Coto de Hayas Tinto Joven. A wonderful blend of Garnacha, Tempranillo, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, and a killer steal at about $7. Red fruits, spices, a touch of leather, and fine tannins with good acidity. Yum. I'll do a real post on it at some point.