Torres, Altos Ibericos Reserva, Rioja

Color: Medium ruby. Slightly noticeable that it is an aging wine. Nose: A bit subdued. A hint of red fruit and spice. Mouth: Much better on the palate. Very good expressiveness and length. Nice cherry aroma. A hint of spice. Lean and juicy. The alc. of 14.5% isn't noticeable. Elegant. Medium bodied.

Strong again as 2011. This is full of character, dark fruit and espresso like coffee flavors. There is still some harshness in the tannin but with some time in bottle this will smooth out. At the Rewe around the corner, this is a fantastic bargain. But even with the average price it is very affordable and a good buy. I really like it with pizza but pork and beef may be even more enjoyable.

Smells of fruit, and power packed at that. A little bit of make up but still fleshed out and delicious.

Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Grenache and Marsalana. Constructed to fit teh cuisine and this is apparently the birthplace of Peala. Savory fruit tones on the nose. Black and blue but then with some mineral salt character. And a little bit harder edged on the palate as well. Lots of sun on this. And lots of savoriness as well.