Bodegas El Coto Rioja Coto de Imaz Gran Reserva 1996
The back label says this sees a long time in new American oak. But compared to my last taste a little over a year ago, the oak finally seems to be going to the background and the bright, red toned and citrussy aromas that I so love in traditional Rioja are coming to the fore. Refreshingly high acidity, bright, but the palate's oak isn't integrating quite yet. An attractive enough drink, but I would wait still a couple years if that would still lessen the oak.
It says much about the Finnish selection, but at 21€, this is practically a bargain here.
Bodegas Veracruz Verdejo "Ermita" 2005 Rueda
Smells grassy/clover-like and somewhat mineral; no oak, but not as refreshing as some previous vintages. Fat fruit, perhaps a bit alcoholic and not as refreshing as some years, but still a nice wine. Nicely mineral aftertaste. It is a like a Sauvignon Blanc except that it is interesting aromatically (dons tin helmet).
Adegas Valmiñor Davila 2006 Rías Baixas
A blend of Albariño, Loureiro and Treixadura, this is almost every year one of the few wines that I buy multiple bottles of. Smells of peaches and sea-breeze. Tastes ripe but mineral and vibrantly acidic. Lovely.
Williams & Humbert Rare Old Dry Amontillado Solera Especial Jalifa Aged 30 Years NV
Yummy. Dry and rancioed. Supremely intense. I loved it. Everyone else said it is painfully intense.
-O