Neal Martin reviewed the 2010 Barón de Chirel Reserva before bottling in May 2012, and now all the good things he saw in that sample are confirmed by the bottled version. The nose offers a clear Bordeaux profile that is quite classical with cedar wood, lead pencil, tea leaves, leather and cherry aromas. On the palate the fine-grained, sophisticated tannins of the Cabernet are very well integrated with the oak and are countered by good freshness and length in a very classical harmonious style. This is a great showing for Chirel. Approximately 30% of the grapes used were Cabernet Sauvignon. 26,000 bottles produced.

Tobacco and tar notes frame dried cherry, plum and light gamy flavors in this old-school red. This is harmonious, with a savory character, a polished texture and a long, spicy finish. Drink now through 2020. 1,416 cases made, 600 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Rioja Select to Add