2006 Bodegas Urbina Rioja Reserva Especial

Reviews taken from Decanter magazines Rioja Guide 2023:

"Developed style, with lots of vanilla, freshness and dried herbs and fruits. Crisp brambly acidity that is still full of energy. Drink 2023-2036."
93 pts, Pedro Ballesteros Torres, decanter.com

92 pts, Sarah Jane Evans, decanter.com
92 pts, PM, decanter.com

Other reviews:

One of Tim Atkin MW's 9 Reserva 'wines of the year'
"If you love mature,traditionally made Rioja, this will put a smile on your face and a song on your lips. Made from Tempranillo and 5% Graciano and Mazuelo, it has the freshness and elegance you'd expect from the cooler Cuzcurrita zone, spicy French and American oak, fine grained tannins and palate-caressing wild strawberry sweetness. 2021-25"
96 points, Tim Atkin MW

"A classic, mature Rioja with plenty of dried-banana character, but also blackberry and smoke notes. Supple and generous until you get to the crisp finish. A blend of tempranillo, graciano and mazuelo."
91 points, James Suckling

Bodegas Urbina have produced a very classic Rioja from the excellent 2006 vintage that has since developed beautifully in the bottle. The nose has aromas of fine black fruits, black cherries, ripe plum, leather and tobacco notes, all perfectly integrated with the oak. The palate is round, silky and smooth, and has a voluptuous, sweet mid-section with delicious ripe berry and mature fruits. Refreshing acidity; elegant, complex, very classy.