2001 C.V.N.E. (Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España) Rioja Imperial Reserva (Spain, La Rioja, La Rioja Alta, Rioja)

Served with herb roasted leg of lamb. Maybe my favorite wine and food pairing in the world. Although the food was outstanding, and although the wine paired well with the food, the wine on its own was simply incredibly tasty. It's a very serious wine that has serious structure, crunchy red and black berry fruit, and a ton of earth, grilled herbs, and a deft touch of American oak. 85% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 5% Mazuelo. Saw American and French oak barrels.