2015 Bodegas Roda Sela Rioja

I was surprised to see how different the blend for the 2015 Sela was in comparison to the 2014, with a lot more Garnacha (10%) along with 82% Tempranillo and 8% Graciano, as both Garnacha and especially Graciano like warmer vintages. They call 2015 a perfect Mediterranean vintage with perfect ripeness, and in this vintage, they followed the same modus operandi as they did for all the reds, with natural fermentation in French oak vats. In this case, the élevage was in mostly new barriques and lasted 12 months. It's very balsamic, with aromas of Mediterranean herbs, aromatic, open and expressive. The palate is juicy, and there's great balance between fine tannins and acidity, with very clean, focused flavors and with more structure and volume but keeping its poise. One of the best Selas ever. 96,539 bottles were filled in May 2017. Review Date: February 2018