Don Aurelio Tempranillo Reserva

The Don says he’s gonna make an offer you can’t refuse. Don Aurelio – a six year old aged Spanish Reserva Tempranillo (prounounced temp-rah-knee-oh) that’s “Rioja Reserva” in style but from the Valdepenas region in the southern part of central Spain.

So what’s with Reserva on the label? Does it actually mean anything? You bet. Strict Spanish wine rules mean that any wine labelled “Reserva” must be aged for a minimum of 3 years, at least six months of that must be aged in oak. This wine’s had 12 months in oak and 24 months careful ageing in the cellar before release. It’s now had a couple of extra years under its belt and it’s all the better for it!

Made by the Navarro Lopez winery – they’re the guys that make two of the most popular Spanish reds on our shores, Rojo and Arriba. For a few bucks extra you’re getting a massive step up in class.

Scoring 5 Stars (93/100) by Wine Orbit’s Sam Kim, who said “Offering power and matured complexity. Harmonious, and immensely appealing.” Medium to full bodied with silky smooth tannins and showing all the characters of a brilliantly aged European red, without the big price tag.

No need for any additional long term cellaring (although this will probably last for another year or two) – that bits already been done for you! Just rip the cork out and enjoy.

The Don says revenge is a dish best served cold – but if you’ve got hot sizzling slabs of game meats, steaks or sausages then this is your go to wine match. Or how about a wedge of aged cheddar?