Carlos Serres, Rioja Gran Reserva (La Rioja, Spain) 2016 ($35, Winesellers, Ltd)

Feb 5, 2025

By Vince Simmon
Wine label

Carlos Serres left Bordeaux for Spain during the mid-19th century phylloxera epidemic and settled in Rioja Alta’s Haro district. Today, the winery focuses on international varieties but also makes excellent, quality Rioja wines. Their Gran Reserva is spicy with chestnuts, toasted coconut, cedar, cocoa, and dried cranberry. The blend is 83% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, and 5% Mazuelo. Despite having abundant tannins, they are silky and soft, making for an excellent round mouthfeel and a great drinking experience. This wine still feels young, with lots of power and balance. If you have patience, this wine will continue developing. I recommend enjoying this vintage now through 2035.
91 Vince Simmon

Country / Region

La Rioja, Spain

Appellation

Rioja Gran Reserva

Grape Variety

Color

Red

Vintage

2016

Score

91

Price

US $ 35

Producer

Carlos Serres