2014 La Vizcaina El Rapolao Tinto
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Tasting notes
Lurid ruby color. Musky, deeply pitched dark fruit aromas are complemented by suggestions of candied violet, cured tobacco and smoky minerals. Sappy, spice-laced boysenberry and bitter cherry flavors are enlivened by a peppery, spicy quality and become sweeter in the glass. Unfolds slowly and finishes impressively long, with outstanding clarity and suave, even tannins that sneak in late.
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Average Score
Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
The 2014 La Vizcaína El Rapolao had a Cabernet Franc-like character that I also found in the 2013, both cold years in the zone. It fermented in a combination of oak and chestnut vats. There are also notes of wild berries and flowers. The palate is serious, with fine-grained tannins and good length. 2014 was not an easy harvest, but somehow his vineyards delivered very balanced grapes and higher yields. Some 3,400 bottles were filled in August 2016. This is the first of the reds to be bottled.
(aged in used barriques and demi-muids ) Inky ruby. Smoke-accented blackberry and blueberry scents on the deeply perfumed nose, complicated by violet, peppery spice and game notes. This reminds me a lot of a northern Rhône wine. Densely packed dark berry preserve flavors pick up candied licorice and cola qualities with aeration, along with hints of bitter chocolate and candied flowers. Coats the palate and puts on weight with air, finishing with smoky mineral cut, excellent tenacity and building tannins.