($26, Kysela Père et Fils): Though the producer is Bodega la Bastida, make no mistake, the names to remember are Michel Rolland, the internationally renowned oenologist who advising leading Bordeaux estates, and Javier Galarreta, a Spanish wine entrepreneur — hence the “R & G” emblazoned across the label.  The grapes come from La Bastida’s 1200 acres in the Alavesa, a region of Rioja revered for high-quality fruit.  Rolland oversees the winemaking and uses state of the art equipment, including an optical sorting machine, that ensues only the best grapes make it into the fermenting vats.  The result, not surprisingly, is a polished wine with excellent concentration without being overdone.  A smoky element, dark cherry-like flavors and a subtle bitterness in the finish add intrigue, while glossy tannins allow enjoyment now. All in all it screams for roasted red meat.  It is another example of the bargains to be found in Spanish wines.
92 Michael Apstein Jan 13, 2015