1952 Rioja Gran Reserva

They have two different alcohol possibilities, 10.8% or 12.1% from different batches. Tempranillo 60%, Cabernet 40%. Aged in barrels for 50 months. This vintage had a hot June and July and a cool August. Garnet rim. Still remarkably alive on the nose, spiced notes and mushroom and Christmas spice – clove and cinnamon. Wonderful texture. Tannins are layered, the high acidity is still there and keeping it going. Drops off in the glass a little, but then picks up again. Ripe fruit and beautifully made. Fine, elegant, needs drinking in next 10 years. (AC)