La Rioja Alta Viña Arana Gran Reserva 2015

Black cherry, rose oil and candied raspberry open things up, layered with coconut, cured tobacco and a thread of smoke, unmistakably Rioja Alta in character. Firm and concentrated on entry, dark fruit and cherry cola build through the mid-palate, joined by candied licorice as the wine breathes. Tannins are well-knit and polished, and the finish is long, drifting toward floral pastille and oak spice with a clean, smoke-tinged fade. Still tightly wound, give it a few years to fully open. Drink 2026–2040.