Grapelive Wine of the Day
By Kerry Winslow
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2008 SalBide Rioja, Spanish Red.
European Cellars is renown for finding great wines from southern France and Spain, and for those that like Rioja, this wine is a must have. The 2008 SalBide Rioja is 100% Tempranillo and is aged in French oak barriques, making for a stylish and classy wine with nice richness and depth of flavors. Considering the quality of fruit and cost of the barrels this wine seems like a great deal, and to be honest it would be successful at twice the price, so I recommend you search it out and give it a try. The nose is smoky with char and cedar notes with floral touches that lead to a silky palate of black plum, cherry and bramble berry with hints of blueberry, mineral and baking spices. This wine picks up depth and weight with air, making a creamy and long lasting finish. Best with food, but really is enjoyable to sip and have with a selection of Spanish cheeses.
($16 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
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