Here’s a wine that I didn’t know much about when I bought it, or when I tasted it, but a little Internet sleuthing later turned up some pretty cool information that I’ll get to a minute.
There are usually quite a few Rioja choices at Costco, including their own Kirkland bottling that is a good pick for only $8. I have a lot of readers asking our opinion of many of them, but like all things at Costco, not all of the ones that are sent in are able to be located at stores around me (thinking about you in particular Annie).
Here’s a 2014 vintage Rioja Reserva that boasts a 94 point score from Wine Advocate, as well as 92 points from Wine Spectator and James Suckling. Looking online the retail price seems to be around $40-$50 so nice to find it at Costco for about half that ($25.79).
The wine is a beautiful medium ruby in the glass; didn’t show signs of age; expressive nose of black cherry with a little spice and earth. Good red and dark fruit flavor combo with cherry, plum and blueberry. Medium to full body, tannins are nice and mellow; perfect, lasting finish.
It instantly reminded me of the La Rioja Alta 904 Rioja that I love so much, and guess what that Internet sleuthing turned up? Both wines are produced by the same group. What a guess. The big difference? This one is half the price of the 904.
The more we got into this wine, the more we liked it. This is a really special one and ridiculous at this price.
I often get asked for collectible wines under $30 and this is one of those rare finds that fits the bill. It drinks really nice right now, but it might be fun to put some away for a few more years too. What a gem.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 93 points (a Costco Wine Top Pick)
Costco item number: 1543631
Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA (Kennesaw)
Alc. 14.5%
Linda sana says
2014 Torre de Ona Finca Martelo Rioja Reserva
I would love to get some of this wine. I live in Auburn, ca Is there a way to find out which Costcos will have it?
Thanks
Linda Sana
Editor says
We are independent of Costco so we don’t have any info on the wine’s distribution. Often times readers will call their local stores and ask if they carry the item by using the item number which in this case is: 1543631
John R Hill says
@Linda sana,
I am a long time CWB follower and Costco customer and stockholder. In each market, there is generally one location that has an expanded wine selection. If you were to call a local store as suggested, not only will they tell you if they carry a specific wine SKU (item number) but they can also tell you if any other stores in the market carry it. I have found this to be the case at the San Luis Obispo Costco, Woodinville, WA and Hillsboro, OR.
On another note, Alaska Airline allows customers to fly a case of wine home at no charge. Each year we select 12 bottles from the SLO/ Central Coast. They regularly stock Justin and August Ridge which are two of our favorite. A $25 per bottle savings goes a long way toward a plane ticket to another California market.
happy sips
jrh
Casie says
I agree with your review and went back and bought two cases. It drinks well above the price point!
Joshua Bahoff says
I’m very sad to see that the Kirkland Ribera del Douro will no longer be in stock, maybe ever. This Gran Riserva for $14 has been an awesome wine at a “steal” price. I hope it will be re-stocked. According to the managers I’ve spoken with, it has been discontinued.
😞🍷🥳😩