Wine: Berberana 1985 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Berberana (Ollauri, La Rioja)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 60% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 20% Mazuelo and Graciano (minority).
ABV: 12.5% vol.
Winery: Bodegas Berberana (Ollauri, La Rioja)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 60% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, 20% Mazuelo and Graciano (minority).
ABV: 12.5% vol.
Winemaking
The wine undergoes an initial 12-month stabilization period to complete fermentation before being racked. It is then aged for 36 months in seasoned American oak barrels (225-liter), none exceeding 10 years of age. Finally, it rests for a minimum of three years in the winery's traditional underground cellars (calados) prior to its commercial release.
The wine undergoes an initial 12-month stabilization period to complete fermentation before being racked. It is then aged for 36 months in seasoned American oak barrels (225-liter), none exceeding 10 years of age. Finally, it rests for a minimum of three years in the winery's traditional underground cellars (calados) prior to its commercial release.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Very pale reddish-ruby core of medium depth; limpid and free of
sediment. It shows brilliant, luminous garnet and amber reflections. The
wide rim displays distinct tile-like (tawny) tones.
Nose:
Medium-intensity aromas led by fine oak and fresh vanilla, accented by
nutmeg and a balsamic backdrop reminiscent of Zara licorice, sage, and
ivy. The profile is soft, polite, and well-ordered. With aeration, it
gains complexity with smoky, dairy, and creamy nuances. While it lacks
profound depth, it is highly approachable and conveys the poise of a
fully mature wine.
Palate:
Broad and mature on the entry, featuring well-integrated acidity and an
abundance of creamy oak. Initially, the fruit appears somewhat
overshadowed by the barrel influence. However, after 30 minutes of
aeration, it opens up to reveal slightly tart, macerated red and black
fruit. Savory and pleasant; an effortless drinker. A quintessential
1980s Berberana that remains thoroughly endearing.
Commentary
This 1985 Gran Reserva is a charming example of the classic "commercial" Rioja style of its era. While it may not possess the monumental structure of the region's elite icons, it offers a harmonious and nostalgic drinking experience. The heavy influence of American oak is balanced by the typical freshness of the vintage, making it an honest and reliable window into the history of Ollauri.
This 1985 Gran Reserva is a charming example of the classic "commercial" Rioja style of its era. While it may not possess the monumental structure of the region's elite icons, it offers a harmonious and nostalgic drinking experience. The heavy influence of American oak is balanced by the typical freshness of the vintage, making it an honest and reliable window into the history of Ollauri.
Personal Score: 87
Tasting Group Average: 87
Tasting Group Average: 87
No comments:
Post a Comment