Calma / Alberto Orte, Rioja Crianza (La Rioja, Spain) Tempranillo 2019 ($20)

When not making wines from Jerez or Spain’s other regions, Alberto Orte sources grapes from high elevation sites for his Rioja wines. Made from a single vineyard in the town of Hormilla and aged for 16 months in small oak, his Calma Crianza is a vibrant and beautifully textured Tempranillo. Dark cherry, tobacco leaf along with a touch of coffee combine for an attractive, lively aroma. Medium full-bodied, it is soft, supple, and harmonious with tons of dried cherry, baking spices and velvety tannins in its flavors. Ready to enjoy now, but will hold together nicely over the next few years.
93 Norm Roby