The 2005 Coto De Imaz Reserva, made of 100% Tempranillo and aged for 12 months in American oak; is a light to medium bodied wine, with intense aromas of integrated sandalwood, vanilla, faint leather and cherry. It needs about an hour to decant, but once it does, the acidity mellows out and becomes nicely balanced with refined tannins and a long and smooth finish. It is at its peak now as the fruit is starting to diminish, but still should last for another 5+ years. My impression: BEAUTIFUL, 90-91 pts – a recommended buy as this is one of tastier Riojas under $30. Tasted Apr/12.

See my wine recommendations readily available at the LCBO @

www.GrapeSelections.com

or here @
http://www.winealign.com/wino/dantrcka/recommended-wines-you-can-still-buy

A real beauty from Spain for a buen precio. In 2005 the tune "Drop it Like its Hot" was popular with the hip kids. Like Snoop Dog in a sauna eating some red curry. Its old school, wreaks of coolness, smells of cheeba and wet cedar, and has a great spicy finish. When the pimps come to your crib ma, drop this with some spicy sausage, asiago cheese, and sea salt crackers

Deep red. Medium body. Fruity, woody and herbal. Some complexity. Lots of ripe tannin. Struck me as being a good, balanced wine but it lacked the concentration I would expect at this price.

A wonderful mature Rioja here. Aromas and flavours of coconut and red berries, with a silky smooth mouthfeel, and fresh balancing acidity. Great way to taste aged wine for $20.