FAMILIA TORRES RIOJA ALTOS IBERICOS RESERVA 2018

Torres Family's Altos Ibéricos Reserva 2018 beautifully expresses the distinctive terroir of Rioja Alavesa, where sustainably farmed, 60-80 year old Tempranillo vines thrive in the region's cooler microclimate. Established in 2007, the solar-powered La Carbonera winery crafts this elegant wine from meticulously hand-harvested fruit that benefits from low yields and concentrated flavors. Following fermentation, this 100% Tempranillo ages 18 months in French oak (10% new) and another 18 months in bottle before release. The deep ruby-colored wine delivers intense aromas of raspberry, cherry jam, licorice, and toasted notes at 14% ABV. James Suckling (91 points) praises its "savory spices, walnuts, preserved plums and oranges" and "firm and juicy" palate with "fine-grained tannins" leading to a "long and composed finish."