2004 Rioja Bordon Reserva - Franco Espanolas

In the late 1800's Bordeaux was in disarray after being decimated by phylloxera, one of America's early exports to Europe.  Many in the French wine trade turned to northern Spain and primarily Rioja, due to its long history of growing grapes and making wines, to satisfy the demand for wine in France.  The logo of Franco - Espanolas is actually a coat of arms that is half of Bordeaux and half of Logrono, in the heart of Rioja.  It was founded by a French businessman and several Spanish partners.  The winery continues to make outstanding traditional styled Rioja.  It's hard to beat their 2004 Reserva which has great mid-palate richness.  Plush dark cherry, smoke and a hint of new leather and clove meld perfectly.  Impressive concentration and I would definitely recommend holding onto several of bottles of this for another decade or so at least.  An amazing value for this wine.