Bodegas Riojanas, Monte Real Cepas Viejas, Rioja, Spain 2022

Lots of character and sense of place in this expression of Tempranillo bursting with Mediterranean herbs, aniseed and a hint of tapenade. Well-presented tannins, with an assertive grip offset by refreshing zesty energy. The intense core of plum and blackberry fruit is cloaked in dry cedar, caramel, roasted coffee beans and apple peel. Good persistence with long tail of dark chocolate.