Campo Viejo Gran Reserva Tempranillo 2005 wine review by (PB)

Solid black cherry hue still showing vestiges of purple youthfulness in this nearly 9 year old wine.

Bouquet is brimming with cherries from the glass with cigar box goodness on spicy cherries.

Palate--Integrated,with tart pie cherry flavors on a structured, mature wine with plenty of age left on it. I'm not even convinced this is at its peak. Finishes quickly but maes you want to go back for more.

The Rioja is an often overlooked region of the world which produces some spectacular--and pricey--Tempranillo wines. If you haven't delved into the world of this grape, you don't have a complete wine education. Campo Viejo in particular produces wines at 3 different price points at least, and each one tends to be well done.

I will pair this with braised beef shanks and risotto made from the braising liquid. I suspect it will be awesome.

I paid $13 for this gem marked down from $20. Wish I had bought more. Raise a glass for sure!