Valsacro 1998 [Red]
Producer: Bodegas Valsacro
Region: DOC Rioja

While quite different from the '97, Valsacro's second vintage is showing well. The 80+ year old vines are among the oldest in Rioja and this year's crop, while more austere than the '97, is a nice mix of classic Rioja with a modern touch and a noticably Mediterranean character. Good wine on its own, especially good with lamb.

Medium depth cherry red color, bright. A nice fruit & pepper nose with vanilla and toasty wood. Medium to full weight palate that belies the lightish color with bramble fruit [blackberry/raspberry and strawberries] with a warm, spicy Rhone-like character. Superb and starting to show very well, but could probably use a bit more time in bottle.

[$L]
27 Jun 2001