RIOJA [ALTA], SPAIN
Deep ruby red, medium high intensity. On the nose we find bright and pure red berry fruit sustained by rich aromatics and fragrance. On the palate it is lively and generous and well balanced. Fruit and spices linger into the finish. An impressive Crianza.
 
After only six years this harmonious wine is showing great character, with ethereal aromatics of balsam, dried cherry, tobacco, leather and a kiss of vanilla oak, mirrored on the elegant, refined palate. A classic expression of a fine Crianza from an excellent, historic bodega.
 
Based in the Rioja Alta town of Abalos, Bodegas de la Real Divisa (whose wines sell under the name Marques de Legarda) is one of the older bodegas in all of Rioja, with a history of vine growing stretching back to the 15th century. This will likely become our new favorite value in traditional, crianza (aged a minimum of 2 years) level Rioja. Spicy, cherry and other red fruits on the nose show lots of classic, refined, Rioja rusticity. Juicy red fruits, with just a hint of darker berries, show great presence and harmony on the nicely textured palate. This one right here is CLASSIC Rioja, no doubt about it. Highly recommended for regular drinking or for cellaring 5-7 years.