2012 Bodegas Roda Reserva Rioja Roda I Magnum

(93 Points) Even if 2012 was extremely dry and somewhat warm, the 2012 Roda I feels fresher than the 2011 I tasted next to it. 2012 was also an early harvest, up to 15 to 20 days earlier than 2010. This is more or less the same blend, mostly Tempranillo with some 4% Graciano, fermented with indigenous yeasts. The élevage was in new and second use French oak barrels and lasted for 16 months. It has a more developed and classical nose, with some hints of leather and graphite, black fruit and spices. The palate is medium to full-bodied and ripe without excess, with abundant, slightly dusty tannins. A powerful Roda I. 78,218 bottles produced. It was bottled in August 2014. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate