Wines Rioja Luis Cañas - Reserva - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Luis Cañas Reserva 2018 hails from the famed Rioja DO, a region in northern Spain synonymous with sophisticated, age-worthy red wines. This Reserva, crafted primarily from Tempranillo, sometimes complemented by Graciano or Mazuelo, benefits from extended oak ageing which imparts complexity and structure. The 2018 vintage was marked by a mild spring and a moderately warm summer, allowing for a balanced and elegant expression of fruit and terroir. On the nose, it reveals layered aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry, and plum, interwoven with subtle notes of vanilla, cedar, and sweet spice from its time in oak. The palate is supple yet structured, offering velvety tannins and a persistent, harmonious finish that is the hallmark of a well-made Rioja Reserva.

The Rioja region, stretching along the Ebro River, is defined by its patchwork of soils—ranging from calcareous clay to ferrous clay and alluvial deposits. This diversity, combined with a temperate continental climate influenced by both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, allows for nuanced, expressive wines. Rioja's winemaking tradition is centuries old, with an emphasis on maturation in oak barrels and bottle ageing, which lends Rioja Reserva wines their signature complexity and ability to age gracefully.

This wine pairs beautifully with classic Spanish dishes, especially those featuring lamb, such as roast lamb shoulder or lamb cutlets a la riojana. Its elegant structure and savoury undertones also complement richer fare like duck breast, mushroom risotto, or slow-cooked beef cheeks. For a more traditional Spanish pairing, consider morcilla (Spanish blood sausage) or a platter of aged Manchego cheese and jamón ibérico.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Luis Cañas Reserva 2018 at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for around 30 minutes will help the wine to express its aromatic complexity and smooth out the tannins, offering a refined and pleasurable tasting experience.