Jay Kline

9.2

From a double-magnum. The 2012 “Il Carbonaione” pours a deep garnet color with a translucent core; medium viscosity with no staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing and initially reticent. After almost an hour of air, the bouquet emerged to reveal some funky cherry, red flowers, bergamot, horse blanket, green herbs, old wood and dry earth. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose, the finish is medium+. After plenty of air, this became really tasty stuff but the large format has really retarded the aging process. Similar bottles likely need well into the next decade to enter the zone. Killer with food. — 3 days ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Valserrano – Tempranillo & Graciano – 2019
Rioja DOCa – Rioja Alavesa, Spain 🇪🇸

Overview
A classic Rioja Reserva blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano, aged in oak. The 2019 vintage leans slightly riper and more concentrated than 2018, offering darker fruit and a touch more structure without sacrificing Valserrano’s signature elegance.

Aromas & Flavors
Black cherry, plum, and blackberry compote layered with vanilla, cocoa, sweet tobacco, and a hint of dried herbs. Subtle licorice and baking spice linger on the finish.

Mouthfeel
Medium-plus body with polished tannins and more grip than the 2018. Balanced acidity keeps the wine fresh, while the finish is smooth, long, and quietly complex.

Food Pairings
Lamb chops, Iberian pork, roasted mushrooms, aged Manchego, or paella with chorizo.

Verdict
A refined yet slightly richer expression of Valserrano Reserva. Dark fruit, subtle earth, and graceful spice come together with impressive balance and drinkability. Classic Rioja with modern finesse.

Did You Know?
The Valserrano estate, founded in 1880, is still family-run and among the pioneers of Rioja Alavesa. Higher elevation and limestone soils are key to the region’s lifted acidity and refined tannin profile. — 9 days ago

Sipping Fine Wine

9.1

Deep Ruby color, purple hues, aromas of red and black fruits with herb and cigar spice. On the palate flavors of black cherry and blackberry with vanilla, cacao and tobacco. Fine round tannins, medium+ length ending with fruit, tobacco and mineral spice. Good now! — 19 days ago

Bernat Jaume

9.0

Va mejorando a medida que se oxigena. Bastante bien. — 8 days ago

with Ana

Gustavo

9.9

45 anos. Piselli com Diego e Luiza. 18 anos de guarda. — a day ago

Jose Lorenzo

9.5

Amazing. Can still hold a few more years — a day ago

Kristin C

9.0

Smoked meats/sausage and cola on the nose, garnet color and medium-plus body, silky taste. Smooth, plum and raspberry, nice modest acidity, light vanilla notes, elegant finish. — 2 days ago

Scott@Mister A’s-San Diego

8.9

2013 vintage. Tasted via Coravin. Closed for biz currently. 12.10.25. — 4 days ago

Jeroen Koenen

10

Just fabulous…..
So beautifully balanced and complete, combining detail, elegance and persistence. Literally jaw-dropping. Such a privilege to enjoy these bottles together with Maya and Naoko Dalla Valle. — 23 days ago

setver

9.2

Top vino, pio u Marble — a day ago