Bodegas Izadi Rioja Reserva

Bodegas Izadi Rioja Reserva takes its name from the Rioja Reserva category, a style built mainly on Tempranillo, often with some Garnacha, Graciano or Mazuelo. Wines labeled Reserva are typically aged for several years before release, including at least a year in oak barrels, and that shapes what to expect from this bottle. Expect a medium-to-full-bodied red with dried cherry, red plum and cranberry fruit. Typical secondary notes are vanilla, cedar, dried herbs, leather and a touch of tobacco from the barrel and bottle time. Tannins in this style are usually firm but rounded, acidity is fresh enough to keep the fruit lively, and the finish tends to be moderately long and savory rather than sweet. The savory, oak-influenced profile suits roasted and grilled meats. Lamb shoulder, grilled pork chops, chorizo, and beef braised with peppers and paprika are all natural matches. Aged hard cheeses such as Manchego, and dishes built on cured ham, mushrooms or roasted red peppers, work well too. Because Reserva wines usually show moderate tannin and bright acidity, they also handle tomato-based dishes better than many fuller reds. Very spicy food will overpower the fruit, so keep the heat moderate. Serve it slightly below room temperature, around 60 to 65°F (16 to 18°C). If the bottle has been in a warm room, 15 minutes in the refrigerator will help. Wines of this type generally open up with 30 to 45 minutes of air, so pour it into a decanter or a wide-bowled glass shortly before the meal. If the bottle has sediment, decant it gently and stop pouring before the dregs reach the glass. A large Bordeaux-style or Burgundy-style glass gives the aromatics room to develop and softens the oak. Reserva wines are made to drink on release, and this one should be approachable now with decanting. Bottles in this style often hold well for several more years if stored on their side, cool, dark and at a steady temperature. If you plan to cellar it, check how the fruit and oak are balancing every year or so, because the wine will not necessarily improve indefinitely.