After enjoying the excellent 2019 Altanza Reserva over the weekend, for red wine review we go back in time to revisit an earlier vintage of this wine – the 2005, which I purchased from the LCBO VINTAGES Release, where it was featured on the cover and known as Lealtanza Reserva. The tasting note in the catalogue suggested that it was best enjoyed by 2025.
Tasting Note:
LEALTANZA RESERVA 2005 – DOCa Rioja, Spain (#276097) (XD) – $19.95
100% Tempranillo aged for 18 months in French oak, followed by 18 months in bottle prior to release. The medium+ to medium-high intensity nose has mature, tertiary aromas of dark red cherry, savoury earth, and wood with hints of sweet baking spice and red plum. The medium+ bodied palate is dry and savoury with earth and wood spice notes flecked with dried red cherry and floral. Acids are still quite fresh, while the textured tannins have integrated very nicely. Gains weight on the juicy, textured mid-palate, while faint remnants of sweet/dried red fruits taper to savoury earth and barrel spice notes on the long and juicy finish. Still exceptionally balanced and an enjoyable experience. Score: 90+ pts