1978 Palacio Rioja Glorioso Reserva

95 points, Decanter
"Located in Laguardia, between the Sierra Cantabria mountains and the Ebro river, Bodegas Palacio is at the heart of a group of wineries set up in 1894, today making wines in Ribera del Duero, Rueda and Toro, as well as Rioja. The location bodes well for its Tempranillo grapes, grown on high-altitude, chalky clay soils with a south-facing aspect, all in Rioja Alavesa. New French oak barrels are used in the ageing process, which lasts at least 24 months, followed by further ageing in bottle. Pedro Ballesteros Torres MW: A lovely decadent style which is juicy and appetising in the mouth, leading to a clean finish. For a wine that is almost 40 years old this deserves an accolade. Sarah Jane Evans MW: 1978, what a treat! This is all about what Rioja can do. Graceful, elegant and berry fruited with citric freshness in a slightly rustic style. Pierre Mansour: A light, delicately framed gran reserva of considerable age and finesse, this retains remarkable vigour and freshness. A delight." - Sarah Jane Evans MW, Pedro Ballesteros Torres MW, Nov 2017