Viña Real Plata Crianza 2010

... from hand-harvested grapes from Rioja Alavesa and produced in the Vina Real winery. As with the Reserva, the Crianza is usually a blend of 90% Tempranillo complemented with small amounts of Garnacha, Mazuelo and Graciano. 2010 had textbook climatic conditions to be a great vintage. The destemmed grapes carry out both alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in stainless steel vats and the wine ages for some 14 months in French and American oak barrels. This 2010 has a nice bright cherry color with a clean and open nose displaying red fruits and a spicy touch, coming through as quite a traditional nose and a polished palate with good acidity as they aim for freshness and drinkability. This Crianza represents superb value for money. Drink now-2020. Score - 91. (Luis Gutierrez, erobertparker.com, Dec. 2013)