Pujanza, Rioja (Spain) 2009

 This is a high-quality Rioja at a mid-level price, featuring admirable richness and depth of flavor, but also the bright freshness that marks Tempranillo from the cool climate in the Rioja Alavesa sub-district.  Oak notes are mercifully restrained by Rioja standards, permitting the fresh fruit to express its red and dark cherry notes.  Medium-bodied, with plenty of fine-grained tannin, this will improve for up to a decade, but can certainly be enjoyed now with food.