Alberto Orte 2014 'La Antigua' Rioja Reserva DOCa

Terroir Notes: Vines planted from 1940 to 1955. Tended in sandy, limestone soil and red silica at 2,296 ft elevation. The average temperature during the April to October growing season is 71.6F. Annual rainfall: 8.3 in.

Winemaking Notes: 72 months in 60% French and 40% American oak barrels and 10 months in bottle.

Tasting Notes: Deep red. Lively smoke- and spice-accented cherry and red berry aromas are complemented by floral oil, game and pipe tobacco flourishes. Seamless and focused on the palate, offering juicy raspberry and bitter cherry flavors that become sweeter with air. Shows very good energy and suave floral character on a long, fruit-driven finish that's given shape by well-integrated tannins. -- Josh Raynolds

Pairing Suggestions: Braised meats, roasted mushrooms, stewed beef, duck and game.