Cape Diamond Merlot 2008 Oregon

The latest vintage of what has become our perennial super-value wine has arrived, and it easily reaffirms Ken Wright’s prowess: finding the right patch of land and doing as little as possible to allow the vines planted there to provide outstanding fruit, and thusly outstanding wine. This Merlot, sourced from Oregon’s Del Rio vineyard, continues a remarkable hot streak.

The bouquet has an earthy truffle note at first that quickly subsides as ripe black cherry and cassis aromas move forward and a lilt of oak spice lingers on the edges.  Medium-bodied and round, it has excellent balance, with ripe and rich dark fruit flavors nicely counterpointed by acidity and smooth tannins.  It is supple and smooth, yet maintains firmness, and is long on the finish, where light vanillin notes make an appearance.  With time in the glass it seems to develop even more definition and depth.  Voices of Wine rating: 91 points.

Montebuena Rioja 2009

Montebuena is produced by Bodegas Burgo Viejo, which was founded in 1987 by six families of farmers. Burgo Viejo´s main asset has always been the exquisite winemaking process of grapes collected from its own vineyards throughout the years, back to the times when they were just a wine cellar selling in bulk (they started as a cooperative in the 1950’s). Young Gorka Etxebarria is the leading winemaker and has been working with Burgo Viejo since December 2003.

The 2009 Montebuena is 100% Tempranillo. Dark ruby-colored, it offers an appealing perfume of spice box, leather, tobacco, and blackberry. On the palate it is packed with ripe fruit, has outstanding concentration, and impeccable balance. It is a great bargain that offers a sneak preview of the great 2009 vintage in Rioja and northern Spain in general. It should drink well for 6-8 years.  Wine Advocate rating: 90 points.