Thursday, April 21, 2011

Bodega Roda RODA Reserva 2006, Rioja


Looking for an unconventional choice to accompany your Easter meal? Here’s a big, handcrafted Spanish red that is ready for a place at the table.

Mario Rotilant and Carment Daurella founded Bodega Roda in 1991, the name being an amalgam of the first two letters of their last names. Glorious T quickly snapped a photo so she could share it with her friend Roda.

The winery started with a quest to find the best vineyard sites in La Rioja Alta. Seventeen separate vineyards that produced outstanding grapes were identified and the land was purchased or long-term contracts were signed with the owners.

The grapes for RODA are harvested from 20 vineyard blocks in the best terroirs of the area. The grapes are hand-selected by a team of 40 harvesters. Only the grapes from the top 17 blocks make it into wine. Aging is 16 months in French oak followed by 20 months in the bottle.

This Rioja is deep red and the aroma of oak, cherry and fresh spices is delicious indeed. On the palate, there is a long flavor of sour cherry. The tannins are stout, indicating this could be laid down for aging. The tasting team described the flavor as woodsy.

We decanted the wine and as it opened up, the sharp edges rounded. Although still a powerful wine, a more balanced nature emerged. This is certainly a wine to be enjoyed with a hearty meal.

The wine is composed of 81% Tempranillo, 14% Graciano and 5% Garnacha and should pair well with your Easter lamb or other grilled or roasted meats as well as richly flavored starters.

Suggested retail price is $45.

Full disclosure: We received this bottle as a sample.
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