Altanza Reserva 2017

Engaging spice and black fruit nose. The palate has well-judged oak, fair concentration and lively acidity. Fresh, long finish.

Altanza's well-made Reserva uses a 70/30 split of Tempranillo grapes from Galilea and Fuenmayor. Fresh bright, tangy and balanced, especially for a 2017, it has bramble and blueberry fruit, scented coffee bean oak and purposeful underlying acidity. 2023-28

Fresh black cherries and dark plums with finely roasted spices and a streak of ground cocoa beans and pencil shavings. A juicy, smoothly rendered Rioja with texture and brightness. Medium-bodied and quite drinkable and balanced. Tempranillo. Vegan. Drink or hold.

This dark ruby colored wine has aromas of cherry preserves, olive tapenade and oregano. It features flavors of black cherry, blackberry jam, bittersweet chocolate, violet and clove. Vigorous tannins coat the tongue and gums and then drop off into a bright, lingering finish.