Burgo Viejo Licenciado Rioja Reserva 2016 (750ML)

95 DE / 92 VM

Bodegas Burgo Viejo is the property of six farming families and comprises more than 200ha of vineyards in the Rioja Oriental region, from where the more full-bodied styles of Rioja are produced (see ‘Regional Profile’, p42). Historically, the bodegas sold their high-quality grapes to neighbouring wineries, until the arrival of the young winemaker Gorka Etxebarria, who saw the potential for them to produce excellent wines themselves. Tempranillo is a firm favourite for this producer, despite Garnacha being the most widely planted grape in the area, and they certainly make a success of it, going by the many accolades they have received over the years. Sarah Jane Evans MW: Distinctly pure, vivid reserva, precise style: limpid fruit, brisk acidity, notable but well balanced oak. Classic. Simon Field MW: Intense colour, powerful aromas of tar and blue fruit; minty savoury, rich, lifted and long; an impressive reserva statement of intent. Pierre Mansour: Classy, spicy black fruit, full, round, generous – depth yet beautifully balanced, very classy, effortless. - Sarah Jane Evans MW, Simon Field MW, Decanter

Limpid ruby. Spice-laced cherry, black raspberry, vanilla and tobacco aromas show very good clarity and pick up a hint of smokiness as the wine stretches out. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering intense dark berry, floral pastille, cola and vanilla flavors sharpened by a subtle peppery nuance. Shows impressive energy and minerally thrust on the persistent finish, which is given shape by smooth, harmonious tannins. - Josh Raynold, Vinous Media