R. López de Heredia Viña Cubillo Crianza Rioja Tempranillo Blend 2011
Available at 6 stores
Will Stanley
Another classic example of this entry-level wine in the portfolio of Lopez de Heredia, the 2011 Viña Cubillo is a commendable, traditional Rioja - even if it is not quite at the level of the superb 2010 that punched way above its price point. Featuring an overwhelmingly vanilla-led nose (a little too sweet, perhaps), the palate follows up with the savoury profile so characteristic of the LdH reds, a medley of dried cherry, cranberry, and orange bitters. The tannins are very supple here - barely perceptible - and the acidity is quite low, so this is a wine that drinks very well now and may not develop much further in bottle. Overall, splendid.
Another classic example of this entry-level wine in the portfolio of Lopez de Heredia, the 2011 Viña Cubillo is a commendable, traditional Rioja - even if it is not quite at the level of the superb 2010 that punched way above its price point. Featuring an overwhelmingly vanilla-led nose (a little too sweet, perhaps), the palate follows up with the savoury profile so characteristic of the LdH reds, a medley of dried cherry, cranberry, and orange bitters. The tannins are very supple here - barely perceptible - and the acidity is quite low, so this is a wine that drinks very well now and may not develop much further in bottle. Overall, splendid.
9.0Juan Pablo Perez
Nariz: cereza, ciruela, rosas secas, violetas, tierra, cuero Boca: Tanino M+, Acidez M, Alcohol M/M+
Nariz: cereza, ciruela, rosas secas, violetas, tierra, cuero Boca: Tanino M+, Acidez M, Alcohol M/M+
9.0Willie Carter
Oak and new leather on the nose initially with a burst of fruit coming later. There’s some outstanding smokiness coming through that really elevates things. The layered aromas continue with ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, and raspberry goodness. A wallop of blue and black berries with clove cigarettes saying hello. Primarily Tempranillo and Garnacho with a smattering of Graciano and Mazuelo. Aged for three years in barrels and fully mature at this point even though I do believe it has great longevity in store. Highly expressive and checking all the boxes, this is just plain sitting above other, similarly priced wines. That smokiness is prevalent on the tongue along with a bit of vanilla and orange peel. The fruit on the palate follows the nose. Incredible spice leading to the medium length finish. This may be a little brother of a wine but there’s not much else little about it.
Oak and new leather on the nose initially with a burst of fruit coming later. There’s some outstanding smokiness coming through that really elevates things. The layered aromas continue with ripe red cherries, wild strawberries, and raspberry goodness. A wallop of blue and black berries with clove cigarettes saying hello. Primarily Tempranillo and Garnacho with a smattering of Graciano and Mazuelo. Aged for three years in barrels and fully mature at this point even though I do believe it has great longevity in store. Highly expressive and checking all the boxes, this is just plain sitting above other, similarly priced wines. That smokiness is prevalent on the tongue along with a bit of vanilla and orange peel. The fruit on the palate follows the nose. Incredible spice leading to the medium length finish. This may be a little brother of a wine but there’s not much else little about it.
8.9Louis Martin
Oaky, not too acidic, vanilla accents, nice finish.
Oaky, not too acidic, vanilla accents, nice finish.
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