Marques de Riscal Rioja XR Special Release Reserva

In the tradition of the Bordeaux cellarmasters, the enologist used to mark some of the barrels in chalk with the letters XR, on having found some special characteristics which were not present in others. Riscal are now reviving this practise to be in touch with their history and release these stunning wines. Intense black-cherry colour with good depth of colour. Very expressive aromas on the nose with notes of liquorice, cinnamon and black pepper, with just a subtle hint of the long cask-ageing and ripe, concentrated blueberries and blackcurrants with balsamic notes. Good backbone and lovely, polished tannins leading to a long, persistent finish.