SOLD OUT! The 2016 Carlos Serres Rioja Crianza might be the greatest Rioja value in the world.
Talk about a wine that delivers class, complexity, and style! Keep reading if I’ve piqued your interest.
2015 Carlos Serres Rioja Crianza
90 points Wine Spectator, 90 points Vinous Media
SOLD OUT
Carlos Serres is one of the most respected names in Rioja. A pioneer in the region, Carlos Serres established one of the first wineries in Haro, the wine capital of Rioja. He was also an instrumental figure in promoting the early exports of Rioja wines. Today, the bodega remains family owned and operated, with prime vineyard sites situated in the Alta and Alavesa zones. One of the few centenarian producers of the region, they’re making some of their best wines today.
Their Crianza is a wonderful introduction to the glories of Tempranillo. Composed entirely of Rioja’s most noble grape, this one is aged for 14 months in French and American oak and an additional 12 months in bottle before release. That’s right, the winery did the aging for us, and that’s what makes this such an incredible deal. For the true wine lover, one sniff and sip of this and you’re going to be blown away at the quality to price ratio. Complex notes of baking spices, anise, cedar, and dried fruits lead into a silky palate of red fruits, cinnamon, clove, vanilla, and licorice.
Medium-bodied and beautifully mature, it really drinks more like a Reserva-level Rioja. And the critics agree with yours truly.
Wine Spectator says: “This supple red is balanced and expressive. Cherry, vanilla, orange peel and spice notes mingle over light tannins, supported by citrusy acidity. Not a big wine, but has focus and energy.”
And Vinous Media had similar notes: “Brilliant red. Aromas of fresh red berries, vanilla and baking spices show very good clarity and lift. Silky, focused and energetic on the palate, offering sweet cherry and raspberry flavors that deepen slowly on the back half. Finishes juicy, precise and quite long, featuring a touch of smokiness and gentle tannins that sneak in late.”
With that kind of press, a great price, and just 9 cases up for grabs, this will go fast.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville