Jan 20 2010
Wine of the Week: Campo Viejo 2005 Reserva
As we start off the New Year, Andy and I have decided to focus on finding some really great value wines. We also decided to get out of our comfort zone and to seek out some wine varietals and/or wine regions that we do not normally drink at home. So, our first wine of the week is a Tempranillo (85%), Graciano (10%), and Mazuelo (5%) blend from Rioja, and it certainly is a great value. The Campo Viejo 2005 Reserva is available for under $14 on most wine websites, and we thoroughly enjoyed it last night with Andy’s famous grilled pepper steak. For our tasting notes…
Wined & Dined’s Quick Tasting Notes
Wine: Campo Viejo 2005 Reserva
Vintage: 2005
Varietal(s): 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo
Region: Rioja, Spain (specifically Logrono, Spain)
Alcohol: 13.5%
Price: $14 (or under)
Color/Appearance: Bright burgundy/ruby
Nose/Aroma: Red berries, slight pepper and earthy undertones
Mouth/Flavors: Cherries right up front, ripe plum, slightly jammy but balanced with an earthy quality; not overly sweet like some fruit-forward wines; light tannins; light spice.
Where to Find It: Sherry-Lehmann Wine & Spirits (505 Park Ave at 59th) is currently selling Campo Viejo 2005 Reserva for $12.95/bottle. Click here for more information.
Conclusion: This is certainly a great value Rioja. It was a bit tight upon opening, so I would highly recommend letting it open up for a half an hour (or more) and you’ll have a completely different wine. It is fruit forward but not overwhelming like a huge jammy zin. It is more complex and balanced, and it worked perfectly with our grilled medium-rare pepper steak. Mmmm!
