Torre Oria, Reserva 1999

Background:
From the Utiel-Requena region of Spain comes a Tempranillo which leaves something to be desired. I bought it on recommendation from the manager at Winestyles, they had it categorized under the "mellow" section. It came in a bottle nostalgic of the old Spanish bottling process of wrapping bottles in burlap, though instead of burlap it was wrapped with golden fabric mesh. Speaking with a coworker about this wine, he complained he did not like it, though he could not exactly say why. He is primarily a Syrah drinker, my guess it was too mellow for him. And mellow it was.

Tasting:
The Reserva is a deep maroon/purple, with a nose of sweet cherries, tobacco, pepper and brown sugar. The nose however was quite misleading. With at least 4 distinct scents, I expected the body to be a lot fuller. Instead, I tasted some hints of a great wine, but was very disapointed overall. The body was complex, but quite underwhelming. Fruit-forward, it presented subtle cherry, and very subdued White Cavendish. Very low acidity, it had an extremely short finish, which seemed appropriate, as the body had little to offer. The only surprise this Tempranillo offered was a slight taste of mint leaves once decanted.

Summary:
Region - Utiel-Requena, Valencia Community
Grape - 100% Tempranillo
Mellow, body of cherries, Cavendish and mint

Paring Recomendations:
Cheese: Swiss
Meats: Seasoned steak, black or spicy jerky,
Dishes: Chicken cordon bleu, escargot
Contrast: Spicy foods
Compliment: Mellow foods, mild hors d'oeuvres
Open 15-20 minutes before drinking or decant.