Allende 2014

Allende has been evolving in its successive vintages. Allende today is a very good Rioja and contemporary, yet as well-made and drinkable as the classic ones. The first impression is of terroir, of that Tempranillo firmly-rooted in the Rioja soil, and also of a modern-style wine, due to its juiciness and body; the wine has plenty of fullness, but it's extremely pleasant. The second impression is of seriousness and rigour: most appealing. We’re scrutinising it, whilst enjoying every sip. Appearing a dark Picota cherry colour of high density, without seeming opaque, it exudes aromas of ripe fruit, of red fruits (cherries, pomegranate), some concentrated fruit aromas which already give on the nose a sensation of juiciness, of intensity, alerting us to a fruit-driven wine. Accompanying that fruitiness, we breathe in a lovely terroir scent, spicy notes, a hint of chocolate and with some aeration it also releases those damp notes, of leather and even a saline touch, so reminiscent of the great classic Riojas. Worth remarking upon too is the perfect integration of the alcohol, the mild balsamic and mineral (graphite) notes that are being activated to come through in the same glass, and its slightly earthy finish. We recommend that you decant it half an hour beforehand, so that its remarkable complexity can be better enjoyed. The best thing is that sensation of harmony and its palate, so juicy and mature, with glycerine sensations that fill the mouth yet glide away so very easily on the tongue. It is one of those delectable moreish wines. Most definitely a contemporary classic and a delight for the senses.