The 2008 Crianza sees 12 months aging in French and American oak. It has a well-defined, elegant bouquet of blackberry, sage and orange zest, the latter really coming forth with aeration. The palate is well-defined with supple tannins and layers of refined red fruit that caress the mouth and lend it a smooth, velvety finish that is impossible to resist. Drink now-2018.
Named after the village in the foothills of the Sierra Cantabria in Rioja Alavesa, Castillo Labastida was established when a group of growers took over a winery that was originally the homestead of Manuel Quintano, an influential figure in 18th century Rioja winemaking. They sought to produce their own label and now winemaker Manuel Ruiz oversees some wonderful Rioja wines at mouth-watering prices.
Importer: Winebow, Montvale, NJ; www.winebow.com (except Cuvee KPF)