2005 Finca Allende, Calvario, Rioja

The 2005 Calvario has an intense, ostentatious bouquet with ripe blueberry and cassis that is technically sound, but I feel is missing a sense of place. The palate has a sweet entry with crisp, strict tannins. The oak is well-integrated and clean though surprisingly, there is still some puppy fat towards the finish. Drink 2015-2025+. Commencing with the Allende Blanc, I was impressed by how well this ages. Predominantly Viura with a higher percentage of Malvasia in older vintages, it develops a fine waxy texture and almost dried Barsac-like personality.

9 0% Tempranillo, 8% Garnacha, 2% Graciano. Single-vineyard, planted in 1945 . Rich, savoury dark fruit. Dry and fresh and very fluid on the palate. Intense but well balanced with a fresh elegant finish. (JH)