"Deep ruby. Heady aromas of blueberry, candied licorice, violet and toasty oak, along with suggestions of woodsmoke and vanilla. Sweet, pliant and expansive, offering juicy dark berry and floral pastille flavors that become livelier with air. Densely packed but lively, finishing with very good clarity, smooth, late-arriving tannins and excellent persistence. - Josh Raynolds"
- Antonio Galloni's Vinous (May 2017), 92 pts
"Coffee and cola notes frame the currant, licorice, leather and floral flavors in this bold red. Muscular and rangy, with firm tannins and lively acidity. Drink now through 2030.—T.M."
- Wine Spectator Insider (May 17th 2017), 92 pts"
"Fresh and sweet with ripe aromas of dark violets, citrus leaf and sweet spice with a touch of beeswax. Summer pudding and vanilla cream dominate the palate with juicy and concentrated plum and cherry flavours."
- Decanter, 92 pts
"Dark and oaky with some power and richness, but savory rather than sweetish. The finish is frankly tannic, but fairly well balanced. Drink now."
- James Suckling (July 2017), 91 pts
93 pts - GOLD MEDAL - Rioja Masters 2017 / Drinks Business
"Success is in the details"
"The 2012 Reserva Selección de la Familia is Tempranillo with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes it different from the majority of reds from Rioja. It matured 50/50 in French and American oak barrels for 20 months. It's slightly more international than the rest of the bottlings, the Cabernet adding some weight. There are notes of toasted sesame seeds and a touch from the French oak. It's clearly different, so it's a matter of preference which one you like best. 125,250 bottles produced. - Luis Gutierrez"
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Issue #235, February 2018), 91 pts
