On a recent trip to Costco, I found some new Spanish wines in the bins. One that caught my attention was Hidalgo Tradicion H Rioja. The label told me that the wine is a Rioja Riserva, the alcohol content is 14%, the grapes were harvested 5-1/2 years ago, and Wine Enthusiast rated the wine at 93 points. The $14.99 price was very reasonable for such a wine.
Rioja is a wine region in northern Spain, south of the Cantabrian Mountains. The area experiences seasonal weather changes moderated by the mountains. Grapes for red and white wines are grown, but red wines made primarily from the Tempranillo grape are dominant. The grapes and aging procedures are controlled and a wine rated as "Reserva" must be aged at least 3 years, including one year in oak prior to release.
Hildago Tradicion H Rioja is 100% Tempranillo and was likely released in 2016 since Wine Enthusiast did their rating in September 2016. The wine just arrived at the Greenville, SC Costco but has been in some Costco stores earlier and I hope it is available where you shop.
The wine has flavors of dark cherry, blackberry, red licorice and some earthiness. The most impressive features of the wine are the earthy aroma and the extra long, dry finish. There are ample tannins and this would pair well with a juicy steak. This is a great wine which we totally enjoyed and I do not think you will find a better Rioja at this price.
