Muga Aro Rioja 2006

Dense, inky violet in the glass. Cherry compote, anise, sassafras and exotic potpourri on a heavily perfumed nose — the 200% new oak announces itself through a deep vanilla undercurrent. Broad and coating at first, the dark fruit opens up with air, a lively mineral thread eventually cutting through the weight and lending the finish unexpected lift. For all that oak and primary fruit, the finish is strikingly long and, given the sheer body, impressively nimble. A 70% Tempranillo, 30% Graciano blend that remains very much a work in progress. Give it a decade and revisit.