Viña Pomal 1991 Reserva

Wine: Viña Pomal 1991 Reserva

Winery: Bodegas Bilbaínas (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 100% Tempranillo
ABV: 12.5%
Winemaking

Fermentation in stainless steel tanks under controlled temperatures. The wine was racked into 225-liter American oak barrels, where it remained for 18 to 24 months. During this period, it underwent 3 rackings (trasiegas) to clarify the wine naturally. A minimum of 24 months of bottle aging was completed in the winery’s underground cellars prior to release. 

 

Tasting Notes
 

Appearance: Excellent reddish-ruby with medium-high depth (capa); bright, luminous, and shimmering. It shows lively orange and amber highlights. The rim is broad and copper-toned, contrasting sharply with the core.

 

Nose: Somewhat weak on the nose, though free of reductive issues. Mature and raisin-like, with notes of fruit in liqueur, spices, wine-soaked oak, and a curious, slightly sweet hint of cola candy in the background. It evolves slowly, eventually revealing vanilla, nutmeg, and smoky nuances. There is an excessive sensation of wood, though it remains technically flawless. Overall, rather uninspired (ni fu ni fa).

 

Palate: Its best attribute is a solid acidity that provides presence. Powerful, toasty, mature, and heavy on the vanilla. It falls short on the finish and lacks integrity, yet it remains a reliable red with almost no defects. There is candied fruit and a slight alcoholic edge that dissipates as the serving temperature is adjusted. Polished and intact, but ultimately boring. We did not expect much, and that is exactly what we found. An aged Pomal Reserva that has reached the present day in good condition, but is far from offering anything new, simply reiterating what is already known. Let’s not kid ourselves: Pomal is no longer Pomal!

 

Personal Score: 85
Tasting Group Score: 85