Last week’s article featured second label Cabernet wines including Costco’s Kirkland Cabernet produced by D.C. Flynt. In this article we have another second label wine from Costco, and it is a dandy of a wine value and bargain.
The Kirkland Rioja bottled by Bodegas Muriel
Kirkland Rioja Reserva 2010 – Costco $6.99
In April I posted a review of the 2009 vintage of this same wine. Guess what, this one is even a better wine and a terrific value. The Kirkland Rioja Reserva 2010 is now in Costco stores, and it is one of the best values around. It certainly delivers in the true flavors and characteristics of what you would expect in a 100% Tempranillo wine. The back label shows the wine was bottled by Bodegas Muriel, one of the better known wineries in the Rioja town of Elciego. Since the wine is classified as a Reserva, the wine must be aged for three years. In this case, the Kirkland Rioja Reserva 2010 spent 24 months in American and French barrels and 12 months in the bottle prior to release. The wine has a great nose, with a touch of vanilla mixed with beautiful fruit flavors. The wine has great balance and is definitely very food friendly. Best dish with this wine, Paella! I rate the Kirkland Rioja Reserva 89 Points. Janelle says it is better than that. A “must buy” at this great price.
TorCalvano at K&L Wines
TorCalvano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2011 – K&L Wines $16.95
Reviewed by Vintage Wine Taster Mike
I had this with dinner this week and it is an excellent wine bargain. I am a fan of Vino Nobile stemming back from our Italian excursion in 2010. The TorCalvano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2011 is an estate bottled wine. The Sangiovese based wine has a perfume of cherries on the nose. Red plum flavors coat the palate. The wine has a lush mouthful of balanced fruit and tannins. The wine does benefit from breathing time or aeration. This is an excellent value in high quality Italian wine. The TorCalvano pairs well with any tomato based meal. At $16.95 at K&L Wines this is solid buy. I rate it at 88 Points. Noted wine critic James Suckling rates it at 92 Points.
Less than a pleasant wine. Shows no fruit. No true nose. Very disappointing.
Not typical of the big reds of rioja. 02/13/16