Expected a lot more…
Name: Viña Ardanza, Reserva
Vintage: 2004
Producer: La Rioja Alta, S.A.
Region/Country: Rioja, Spain
Grape Varietal(s): Trempanillo, Garnacha (Grenache)
Consumed: Chambar Restaurant, Vancouver, British Columbia
Recommended By: The restaurant sommelier, who touted the wine as an “amazing millésime” and “to die for”
Cost: 130 CAD
Bottle Appearance: A traditional-looking label with a small font
Appearance: Ruby red, with a faint tinge of orange around the edge, which was surprising given the age of the wine.
Nose: Terroir, earth, dark fruits
Taste: Initially acidic/tannic and would have been improved with a proper decant (at least an hour). Over time, the wine opened a little and softened somewhat, although not overly so. It paired well with a cheese plate. My steak, smeared in green pepper and pesto, overpowered this wine, however, with the pepper and pesto removed, the pairing improved.
Finish: Long, but one-dimensional, consisting of earth and leather notes.
Overall Impression: I have to say I felt disappointed based on the billing. I came away feeling underwhelmed, to say the least. I really think this wine would improved with additional time in the cellar.
Rating (from 70 to 100): 80/100
Value: 1.5/5