I was overjoyed when I found out this week's wine we were tasting was from Spain! While in college, I was extremely fortunate and got to study abroad in Madrid, Spain for a year. Hands down one of the best years of my life! I learned the language, so much about the culture, history and of course myself! The moment I saw this bottle of wine, it brought back so many wonderful memories which paired perfectly with the amazing flavor.
This 2014 Bodegas Abanico "Hazaña Viñas Viejas" from Rioja, Spain received 92 points from Robert Parker Wine Advocate. Robert Parker explains: a blend of 85% Tempranillo and 15% Graciano, this collaboration has produced an absolutely amazing Rioja from 45 to 70-year-old unirrigated, head-pruned vines. Flavors include loads of lead pencils shavings, black and red currants, licorice and tobacco leaf and they all jump from the glass of this dense, ruby-purple wine. Soft tannins, medium to full body and fabulous intensity, make for a sensational Rioja to drink over the next 5-7 years.
Hazaña is made in the traditional Rioja style from 45 to 70-year-old vines that are grown in red clay and chalky limestone. I'd have to say that perfectly fits that saying "better with age!" It spends a year in both French and American oak barrels, which allows the fruit to remain focused while maintaining the hallmark personality of Rioja. This old-vine Rioja has a pleasing palate weight, but is elegant enough to perfectly compliment pork or lamb roasts. Yum!
Another thing about a fine wine is that it doesn't have to be expensive! This Hazaña Viñas Viejas is an Otto's Wine and Spirits exclusive and although it normally retails for $14, you can pick it up at Otto's today for just $10.99 or 2 for $20!
Don't forget to join us for the next Happy Hour with Hannah and Otto's Wine and Spirits on Friday, June 2nd. We'll be live on the 95.7 BIG FM Facebook page around 4:30pm. It's two days before my 30th Birthday so it will definitely be a celebration!