679. Bodegas Domecq de Jarauta, Viña Marro Rioja Reserva, 2005

£??; 14%

As a conference presentation thank you gift, not too bad. But ultimately a mid-range, modern-style Rioja, that was pleasant enough, but not radically inspiring. A touch of overripeness and slightly unbalanced fruit, plus medium length only, are the down-sides of this. Mid ruby / garnet, with a narrow rim. Black cherry & jam, with oak smoke and liquorice touches. Sweet, slightly alcoholic black cherry, laced with oaky, woody notes, blood and vanilla. Medium, slightly grainy tannins. Medium length.