La Rioja Alta Vina Alberdi Rioja Reserva 2006

Straight-up Tempranillo from one of Rioja Alta's steadiest producers. Dried cherry, vanilla, tobacco and a faint thread of anise, the nose is open and classically perfumed. There's an initial juiciness on entry that broadens through the mid-palate into dark berry, bitter cherry and a light mocha note. Tannins are soft, acidity is lively, and the finish closes with a pleasantly tangy grip. Something at the core is still a touch wound tight, two or three more years should pull it all into focus.