Just a few days ago we raved about Portugal being among the best places to find value bottles in the modern wine world. That was said around our review of this fantastic wine that we gave a solid 90 points.
And then the next wine we taste is this gem from Rioja. This one is 100% Tempranillo vs the blend (40%) on the Portuguese wine. While not super comparable it is interesting to note how different these expressions are.
The 2018 Cartuxa Evora Colheita Tinto was a big wine, loaded with flavor and body; ready to take on a late spring grill with burgers and ribs. This Rioja is the older, elegant, chill side of the equation. Ready for a fine meal.
And Costco’s price of only $11.99 is hard to believe considering Wine Library (our favorite online store) is showing a retail price of $35 and a sales price of $19.99.
And elegance is what this wine exudes. Sure it has a little age built in which helps, and it is just ready to drink right now with juicy red fruit, silky smooth tannins, a medium body, tasty finish. Not one thing off with this bottle.
It’s hard to believe Costco is selling something this good at such a low price. If you like Rioja don’t wait to stock up on this one.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 91 points (a Costco Wine Top Pick)
Costco item number: 1445191
Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA (Cumberland)
Alc. 14.1%
Kevin
Saturday 27th of May 2023
After reading the review, I had high expectations for this bottle. I found it to be underwhelming, it did not deliver the flavor profile I expected from a Rioja. In my opinion, a grade of 85 and the $11.99 price point reflects it’s real value. I love a good Spanish tempranillo; this is not one of them.
Wendell
Wednesday 3rd of May 2023
Will buy the Rioja if my store has it this week.
Opened the K Vine Syrah this week...tasted only a half glass because I had over chilled it, will try again of course. It had a deep rich color and med full mouthfeel.
Have you reviewed it? It doesn't show up if I search here.
Editor
Wednesday 3rd of May 2023
We have not found the Syrah yet. Hope to soon
Navin S
Wednesday 3rd of May 2023
Unfortunately, I have not seen this 2015 Palacio Primavera Reserva Rioja, or the previous 2 wines that you reviewed - 2018 Cartuxa Evora Colheita Tinto and 2015 Bodegas Olarra Anares Gran Reserva Rioja. Hoping I will find these soon.
But I did find a new NZSB - 2022 Saint Clair Family Estate Dillons Point Sauvignon Blanc. It has some solid reviews on Vivino, and I am looking forward to trying it soon. This is at the Fredericksburg, VA Costco.
Julia
Wednesday 3rd of May 2023
Spanish tempranillos are our absolute favorite and I love all of your rioja reviews! We have purchased this wine a few times and can't believe the great price! I want to mention that the selection of Spanish wine at the Woodstock and Perimeter locations always seems better than my nearest store, Cumberland. The Cumberland location doesn't even carry the Siglo which I thought would be a staple at every location again this summer. Thanks again for the great reviews! Hoping to try the Portuguese red next!