Wines Rioja Marques De Riscal - 2018

Viniou Reviews

The 2018 Marqués de Riscal Rioja is a captivating example of fine Spanish winemaking from one of the country's most prestigious wine regions. This red wine, crafted exclusively in Rioja, offers a blend of Tempranillo, which is the dominant grape variety in this area, providing structure and character. The 2018 vintage is particularly promising, having benefited from a favourable growing season that yielded grapes of excellent quality. The wine is matured in oak barrels, a traditional technique in Rioja, imparting additional layers of vanilla and spice to the wine's natural berry and cherry flavours.

La Rioja, considered the pinnacle of Spanish wine regions, lies in the north of Spain and boasts a rich winemaking heritage dating back centuries. Its climate is a harmonious blend of continental and Mediterranean influences, resulting in warm summers and mild winters. This, combined with the region's diverse soil types, ranging from clay to limestone, fosters optimal grape cultivation. The Rioja region is renowned for its ages-old tradition and pioneering approaches to winemaking, maintaining a balance between time-honoured methods and modern innovation.

For culinary pairings, the 2018 Marqués de Riscal Rioja is a versatile companion, ideal with a variety of dishes. Its robust profile complements grilled lamb chops, roasted duck, or traditional Spanish fare such as chorizo in red wine sauce. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing with a rich mushroom risotto, which will highlight the earthy notes of the wine.

To best enjoy this Rioja, serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C, allowing the wine to breathe for a short while before tasting. This will enable the complex aromas and flavours to fully develop, offering a complete sensory experience. Enjoy this wine now, or cellar it for a few more years to appreciate its further potential evolution.