Clear, dark ruby, with crimson glints against the light. Cherries, almost a maraschino character in the aroma, backed by subtle spice with an earthy whiff of older oak barrels. Bright and ripe on the palate, red-cherry fruit laced up with an acidic zing; tannins aren't overly evident, but show up as a soft astringency in the tart, long finish. A Rioja meant for aging, it will surely gain complexity with years in the cellar; but its bright fruit and easy tannins make it quite accessible now, particularly with rare red meat