A blend of 75% Tempranillo, 15% Graciano and 10% Mazuelo aged for 16 months in oak barrels. Ripe, cherry red in color, the nose is long and complex with fragrances of leather, tobacco, balsams and spices. These scents are contributions from the oak barrels used for aging. The palate is warm, well-structured and meaty. The wine is aged 16 months followed by an additional 12 months in bottle prior to release from the winery.
Technical Notes Established in 1882, Rioja Vega is one of the oldest wineries in the Rioja region and one of only four ‘grandfathered-in’ before Spanish law prohibited the use of Rioja in brand names and on wine labels. Located in the Rioja Alta sub-region, the wine is predominantly Tempranillo (90 percent) blended with 10 percent Garnacha grapes to add color and palate weight. Minimal aging in French and American oak maintains a youthful wine while imparting structure and texture. The 2009 Rioja VegaTempranillo isrich with a palate of ripe yet refined red fruit flavors and pairs perfectly with many cuisines, particularly tapas.