Bodegas Arzuaga - Gran Reserva Ribera del Duero 2011

Bodegas Arzuaga - Gran Reserva Ribera del Duero 2011 (93 TSW) 
95 % Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) and 5% Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Bodegas Arzuaga is one of the wineries I visited during the Ribera Del Duero trip in June. The whole story is now available on my blog. 

The wineries we visited are Bodega Monteabellón, Finca Villacreces, Emina, Pago de Carraovejas, Valsotillo, Portia, Bodegas Neo and ofcourse Bodegas Arzuaga. This is also the place we stayed for two nights in their luxury hotel and where we enjoyed a lovely dinner at their restaurant.

This Gran Reserva we paired with a lovely chocolate dessert.

About the wine.

The Arzuaga Gran Reserva is produced with grapes from old Tinto Fino vineyards, located on clayey limestone slopes with a yielding of around 2,000 kilos, and with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes from La Planta estate (small amount). Alcohlic fermentation in wooden tanks. After maceration is completed the wine goes to new French barrels to carry out the malolactic fermentation. After this is stayed for 46 months in barrels.

My tasting notes:

In the glass a deep ruby red color with purple black reflections.
On the medium++ nose aromas of ripe dark berries, dark cherries, cassis and black plums with hints of cacao, coffee, cedar and roasted spices.
On the palate dry, full-bodied with great complexity and balance. Still young with light graining tannins and acidity. Ripe and soft tannins and showing flavours of warm dark fruits, vanilla and spices. The finish is long and persistent. This wine has a whole time ahead. Would open up after 5-10 more years.

Pair with red meat, roasted or in sauces or game dishes. With cured or quite fatty cheeses its flavor is enhanced.