Castillo Labastida 1970 Reserva

Wine: Castillo Labastida 1970 Reserva

Winery: Cooperativa de Labastida - Bodegas S. Coop. (Labastida, Álava)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 75% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 5% Viura.
ABV: [Not specified] 

Winemaking
Initial fermentation in angular concrete vats, which were also used for subsequent storage and malolactic fermentation. The wine was then racked into seasoned American oak barriques for an aging period of 24 to 30 months. It underwent a minimum of 12 to 24 months of bottle aging (depending on the vintage) in the winery’s subterranean cellars (calados) prior to its commercial release. 

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Garnet-ruby hue of medium depth; slightly darker than its contemporaries. It appears somewhat turbid with significant sediment at the base of the bottle. Displays orange and reddish glints with a broad, tawny (tile-red) rim and a marked transition to the meniscus. 

 

Nose: Medium intensity with a prominent woody character. Abundant vanilla and seasoned oak nuances initially mask other components. Upon aeration, it develops toasted notes, licorice, a vegetal-balsamic touch, and spices. Overall, it presents a rustic profile without great complexity.

 

Palate: Consistent with the nose, showing a light-bodied structure yet armed with noticeable tannins and correct acidity. Soft and honest, it is dominated by oxidative aging notes: vanilla, dairy, and creamy textures, over a background of ripe red fruit with a slight liqueur-like hint. A fine example of a well-crafted cooperative wine from the 1970s transition period—marking the winery's early efforts in aging prior to its evolution into the current Solagüen. It possesses a rustic charm and the characteristic longevity of the era and region, performing correctly without significant flaws.

 

Personal Score: 83
Tasting Group Score: 85

Antiguos depósitos de hormigón, angulares, pintados de blanco que se usaban para la fermentación y el almacenamiento del vino.