Federico Paternina, Vina Vial, Rioja

Second of two bottles -- the first was consumed in 2019 and consistent experiences for both. Classic mature Rioja in excellent condition. Collector1855's 11/2019 note pretty much captures the look, aroma, and taste of the wine. Took a little while for the bottle funk to clean up, but then a wonderful drink and perfect with albondigas al-andalus.

Blind tasting. Great wine. Blew away two but pricey mature Barolos, both of them very oxidative. Everything is in balance here, very aromatic too. No signs of oxidization and long finish. 1973 is supposed to be a good but not great vintage in Rioja but both this Paternina and also the CVNE last year were superb...

During an Italian blind tasting dinner. This was a pirate bottle adn the clear WOTN. The Italians at the table were a bit disconcerted as this Spanjard wrestled down as stong 15 bottle line up which included Tuscan 100 pointers... What I liked abut this wine was that it smelled and tasted like a mature Burgundy, a mature Clos St.Denis/Clos de la Roche. There was musk, mushroom, game, forest floor, red cherry and cured meat in the nose. The palate …

Amazing wine, still all there! Beautifully aged.

All VA. Purchased from the Rare Wine Co.