Bodegas Fernando Remirez de Ganuza - 1996 - Reserva - 5 L

The 1996 could be called the Chateau Latour of Rioja. An opaque black/plum color is followed by aromas of minerals, cigar tobacco, cedar, lead pencil, and sweet black currant, plum, and cherry fruit. One of the greatest young Riojas I have ever tasted, it exhibits full body, a huge, concentrated palate feel, an immense, chewy texture, and high tannin in the finish. The proprietor, who started this bodega in 1989, was not satisfied with anything until 1994, when the first wine was released. This looks to be a prodigious Rioja that should age effortlessly for three decades. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2030.

Wine Enthusiast: 96

This wine features aromas of black currant, cherry liqueur, leather and forest floor. It is bright on entry, with bold flavors of cassis and blackberry followed by anise and licorice, and then leather and tobacco briefly hold your attention. Bright on the finish in splashes of cranberry and pomegranate, this is a beautiful expression of a well-aged Rioja.