Finca Allende, S.L. Grenache Calvario 2001
Reviews

Rioja has been the vanguard region of Spanish winemaking for well over a century. Often referred to as Spain’s Bordeaux, geographically this comparison is off as the Rioja wines have more in common with French Burgundies or Italian Sangiovese wines. However, this conception may be fueled by Bordeaux’s historical winegrowing and winemaking influences rather than the results. A word of warning: avoid the temptation to pour a Rioja into your Sangria—that would be a travesty and a tragedy.

In general, Rioja wines are aromatic, flavorful, earthy, and display nuance and delicacy. The primary varietal in Rioja is Tempranillo, and it provides the structure, flavor, aroma, and nuance to the region’s wine. The year 2001 was an excellent year in the Rioja, so it’s not a shocker that this Calvario Rioja from the Finca Allende bodega was exceptional as well. The wine is a blend of Tempranillo 90%, Garnacha 8%, and Graciano 2%. It’s a full-bodied red with dark fruit aromas with intriguing earthy, dried mushroom, mocha, and reassuring smoky oak notes. However, the first sips remained tight and held back stubbornly. It’s the same feeling I get when the alarm goes off in the morning and hit the snooze button for another few minutes. But after an hour, the Calvario stretched and yawned, and finally decided to wake up.

After the slow awakening, the palate builds with cherry liqueur, cassis, plums and fleshes out with dark chocolate, leather, and earthy bits of brambles and oak. Excellent depth and structure with unwavering tannins, the smoky finish lingers with finesse and subtlety. Drinks well now, but should keep improving with some aging.

• Sonoma Winery Tours
• Interesting Facts About Wine
• How to Throw a Wine Tasting Party
• Definitions Of Wine Types
• Is Red Wine Good For You

• Dry Red Wine Types
• Red Wine Calories
• Wine Calories
• Wine Serving Temperatures
• Best Red Wine Under $15

• Category:2001
• Torii Mor Winery Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2003 Reviews
• Castle Rock Winery Pinot Noir Mendocino County 2005 Reviews
• Orin Swift Cellars Zinfandel The Prisoner 2003 Reviews
• Category:Red Wine Reviews