Yes, you read that right. 93 point-rated Rioja for less than $20/bottle! The 2011 Carlos Serres Rioja Reserva is an absurd value in super high quality, traditional Rioja.
I’m not saying it’s quite as good as La Rioja Alta’s Vina Alberdi, but it’s pretty darned close, and it will run you half the price. Let’s get 2018 off to a great start with a classic, highly-rated Rioja from one of the region’s pioneering producers. Sound good?
2011 Carlos Serres Rioja Reserva
93 points James Suckling
This vintage is sold out. Click here to order the current release in our online store.
Carlos Serres was one of the early, quality-minded producers of Rioja. Originally from France, he established one of the first modern wineries in Haro, the heart of the Rioja region. He was an instrumental figure in promoting the early exports of Rioja wines. Today, the Bodega remains family-owned and operated, and is one of only a few centenarian producers in Rioja.
Located just southeast of Haro, the Carlos Serres’ estate encompasses nearly 150 acres of vines located in the premium Rioja Alta vineyards. Their vines average 20+ years of age, and their aged wines are perfect models of classic, traditional Riojas. That means extended aging in oak barrels and in bottle before release — this strategy imparts nuance and complexity, two of the hallmarks of world-class Rioja.
This has been one of those wines we’ve been selling steadily for awhile now. Customers often comment on the tremendous quality-to-price ratio, and I completely agree. The 2009 and 2010 were really good, but the 2011 is special. A blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano from 30+ year-old vines, James Suckling raved about this one, and I completely agree with his assessment. “A deep and enticing nose showing ripe strawberries and raspberries plus hints of eucalyptus. Full body, excellent balance and lovely freshness. High level of juicy tannins and a long, fresh and cedary aftertaste. Drink now.”
This vintage is sold out. Click here to order the current release in our online store.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville