Puelles Gran Reserva 2008

This is a beautiful Gran Reserva Rioja, a blend of tempranillo (95%) and garnarcha, graciano, and mazuelo (combined 5%). It was matured 24 months in a 50-50 mix of American and French barrels. The fruit is complex and well structured, with dark fruit to the fore and highlights of spiciness. The fruit-acid balance is perfect, and the tannins are nicely integrated and just perceptible. This fine wine is drinking beautifully now and will easily hold to the late 2020s. (Rod Phillips,Feb. 2024)