Tasting notes:

Bodega Marqués de Vargas began in 1840 when Don Felipe de la Mata, VIII Marqués, planted vineyards at Hacienda Pradolagar in Rioja Alta. The reserva is considered the flagship of the bodega. Aged in French oak barricas, the wine displays a deep ruby core with a cherry edge. Dried cranberry, red cherry and blackberry permeate the nose, accented by toasty oak. The mid-weight palate is framed by fresh acidity and velvet-textured tannins. Well-defined with good length, the wine is a superb match for chicken with ripe cherries balanced by Sherry and a hint of Tabasco zip. (Patricia Stefanowicz MW)