2005 Bodegas El Coto Rioja Coto de Imaz Reserva

I had bought two bottles of this Coto de Imaz Reserva at an auction. Before opening this first bottle, I was a bit cautious and didn’t really know what to expect from the wine. It is not very highly rated on CellarTracker and the last tasting notes date back several years. But the fully intact cork was evidence of good storage by the previous owner. What came into the glass then promised unadulterated drinking pleasure:

Dark ruby red with only a slightly brick-coloured rim, by no means appearing old. The aromas literally flowed out of the glass. There are tobacco leaves, liquorice, vanilla and an earthy minerality. The aromas are inviting and supple. In the mouth, a velvety texture with very soft tannins. Ripe strawberries and liquorice on the palate. Only the finish is rather short, making the acidity stand out a little. This could indicate that the 2005 Coto de Imaz Reserva is at the upper end of its drinking window after all, and prevents an even higher rating. DM88-.

2005 Bodegas El Coto Rioja Coto de Imaz Reserva

2012 Bodegas Valdemar Rioja Conde de Valdemar Reserva

I wish everyone a happy lunar new year! It’s the year of the rabbit in the lunar calendar.

EN: Deep, dark red with purple reflections. An aroma of wild berries, leather and vanilla. Warm, full mouthfeel. The dark fruit notes are joined by a spicy sweetness; probably the result of the ageing in oak barrels, as well as the alcohol. Long and dry finish. The medium acidity also has quite a long grip on the tongue. A red wine that goes well with meat dishes, but due to its heaviness may not produce such a smooth drinking flow as a soloist. Ultimately, it also lacks a little elegance. But hey, absolutely fine in its price segment! Presents itself well now and will last a few more years. DM86.

DE: Tiefes, dunkles Rot mit violetten Reflexen. Aroma von Waldbeeren, Leder und Vanille. Warmes, volles Mundgefühl. Zu den Noten von dunklen Früchten gesellt sich eine würzige Süße, die wahrscheinlich auf die Reifung in Eichenfässern und auf den Alkohol zurückzuführen ist. Langer und trockener Abgang. Die mittlere Säure hält auch auf der Zunge recht lange an. Ein Rotwein, der gut zu Fleischgerichten passt, aber aufgrund seiner Schwere als Solist vielleicht keinen so glatten Trinkfluss erzeugt. Letztlich fehlt es ihm auch ein wenig an Eleganz. Aber hey, absolut in Ordnung in seinem Preissegment! Präsentiert sich jetzt gut und wird noch ein paar Jahre halten. DM86.

2012 Bodegas Valdemar Rioja Conde de Valdemar Reserva