Conde Valdemar Reserva 2012

The Conde Valdemar Reserva is a blend of Tempranilo, Garnacha, Graciano and Maturana. All are grown in the Rioja Alavese and Rioja Alta subregions. The Alta region is higher in altitude giving lighter wines with bright fruit flavours. The Alavesa area has very poor soils and the wines tend to be richer and fuller. This Reserva has aged in barrels for 19 months with the majority of the barrels being sourced from American forests. The wine is then stored in the bottle for another 17 months before release. The wine is smooth and balanced with a great body and structure. Not a show stopper of a wine but one that is immensely enjoyable.