Bodegas Benito Urbina Rioja Reserva Especial 2006

Pedro Urbina is not only charming, he’s a fascinating winemaker who instantly captures your attention.  We listened intently as he explained his philosophy for releasing his wines at a much older stage which is down to the low-yielding complexity and quality of the family’s old vineyards – simply put, the vines produce less fruit but of a much greater quality.

This 2006 Reserva Especial is one the latest to be released and replaces the previous 1998 Reserva Especial.  It retains that wonderful orange hue, instantly demonstrating it’s maturity, yet still  amazingly fresh.  The aromas are gamey, as are the flavours, with an attractive hint of wild herbs in the background.  Acidity keeps the wine’s structure and lasting potential.

A simply extraordinary wine and one that any real Rioja lover will fall in love with instantly.  Our advice is to enjoy this right now, straight from the bottle.  Decant if you wish, but take care not to over-aerate for too long – old wines need to be managed carefully.