A couple of months back we had the pleasure of receiving a few mature Rioja Tempranillo samples. One was a 2005 Bodegas Conde de Valdemar Gran Reserva Tempranillo and the other a 2007 Bodegas Riojanas Vina Albina Tempranillo.
To fully appreciate the viticulturist’s and the winemaker’s combined efforts, it’s always a pleasure to drink wines when they have matured to an age that showcases all the wine has to offer.
2005 Bodegas Valdemar ‘Conde de Valdemar’ Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain
Wow, what a treat to taste this 2005 Bodegas Conde de Valdemar Gran Reserva. It is a blend of three grapes consisting of 80% Tempranillo, 15% Mazuelo and 5% Graciano. According to Wiki’s synonyms for the word Graciano this grape is also known as “drug”, probably why no one uses too much of it. The small addition of Graciano does lend a helping hand, filling out the bouquet with copious amounts of berries and chocolate. With almost ten years of aging the 2005 Bodegas Conde de Valdemar Gran Reserva has reached the perfect window for consumption. Dark sour cherry, sandalwood incense, burnt brown sugar and ginger aromas emanate from the glass five minutes after pouring. Flavors are bold and expressive leaning towards Blackberry, sour cherry, soy and plum sauce with a hint of chocolate. The wine is light on its feet but has an impressive structure and tannic backbone combined with forward acidity making it a chef’s dream wine for pairing with big complex flavors. Lamb lollipops with sherry glaze anyone?
Rating: Excellent (92) | $35 | 13.5% ABV
2007 Bodegas Riojanas Vina Albina, Rioja Spain
Classically Rioja with a blend of 80% Tempranillo, 15% Mazuelo, and 5% Graciano, this blend of grapes came from mature 35-55-year-old vines. The 2007 cool vintage produced wines that exhibited fresh and tender characteristics. Lighter bodied than most wines from Rioja with delicate berry aromas and herbal notes. On the palate, the berry and sandalwood flavors integrate well with the soft tannins and bright acidity. This lighter style Rioja makes a good match for mushroom croquettes and Iberico ham. Enjoy!
Rating: Very Good (87) | $25 | 13.5% ABV
[…] A couple of months back we had the pleasure of receiving a few mature Rioja Tempranillo samples. One was a 2005 Bodegas Conde de Valdemar Gran Reserva Tempranillo and the other a 2007 Bodegas Riojanas Vina Albina Tempranillo. To fully appreciate the viticulturist’s and the winemaker’s combined efforts, it’s always …read more […]