Wines Sierras de Málaga Cortijo Los Aguilares - Breñal - 2024

Viniou Reviews

Cortijo Los Aguilares 'Cuvée Breñal' 2024 is a dry red wine hailing from the Sierras de Málaga DO, a remarkable appellation in the heart of Andalusia, southern Spain. The estate is renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainable viticulture, often using both international and native grape varieties. While the exact blend of the 'Cuvée Breñal' can vary by vintage, it typically showcases a harmonious mix of robust varietals such as Syrah, Tempranillo, and occasionally Petit Verdot. The 2024 vintage, still youthful, is likely to express vivid aromas of red and black fruits—think ripe cherry, blackberry, and a touch of woodland herbs—supported by subtle notes from judicious oak ageing, lending hints of spice, cocoa, and a pleasant touch of smoke. On the palate, you can expect freshness characteristic of high-altitude vineyards, with ripe tannins and a lingering, mineral finish.

The Sierras de Málaga region benefits from a unique microclimate due to its elevation, often exceeding 800 metres above sea level. This altitude moderates the fierce Andalusian heat, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and retain a vibrant acidity uncommon elsewhere in southern Spain. The soils are predominantly schist and limestone, lending an underlying minerality to the wines. The area has a rich history, with winemaking traditions tracing back centuries, although it has gained new acclaim in recent decades for modern, expressive wines that bridge classic Spanish typicity with international finesse.

This wine pairs beautifully with Andalusian cuisine. Think of grilled lamb chops with rosemary, hearty oxtail stew, or local venison with a red wine reduction—dishes robust enough to match the structure and fruit of the wine. It will also complement tapas like chorizo al vino or slow-cooked pork cheeks, and works well with mature Manchego cheese.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at 16-18°C. If drinking young, decant for an hour to allow the wine to open up and reveal its complexity. This will highlight both the freshness of its fruit and the subtlety of its barrel maturation.