Rolland Galarreta Esencia Rioja 2012

Mature black-fruit aromas, but no hint of caramel yet. A generous Rioja with moderate tannins that are well integrated and support the full body rather well. Long, well-crafted finish. Drink or hold.

Ripe and full-bodied - Michel Rolland likes to pick late - this is a small volume wine from a quartet of vineyards in Labastida that are all over 60 years' old. Plush, but not jammy, with savoury tannins, aromatic, spicy new American oak and notes of fresh leather and forest floor. Textured and well balanced. 2022-25