Country: Spain / 200 Monges Reserva
Variety: Red Blend Northern Spain
Winery: Bodegas Vínícola Real / Rioja
Initially this Rioja seems topped by gritty aromas of tire rubber and burnt leaves, but with airing it gets more earthy and presentable. Tight tannins and a firm structure are the greeting on the palate, while flavors of stewed berries, herbs and oak take things to a warm, lightly baked finish with balance and length. The more this wine breathes, the better it shows. Drink through 2020.