Wines Rioja Bodegas Ondarre - Mayor de Ondarre Reserva - 2017

Viniou Reviews

The 2017 Mayor de Ondarre Reserva from Bodegas Ondarre is a classic example of a Rioja Reserva, showing the house’s signature finesse and the region’s distinctive expression. This red wine is typically crafted from a blend dominated by Tempranillo, often complemented by Graciano and Mazuelo, resulting in a wine that balances vibrant red fruit, subtle spice, and elegant structure. Aged for an extended period in both American and French oak barrels—commonly at least 18 months, in line with Reserva rules—this wine displays alluring aromas of ripe cherry, plum, vanilla, tobacco, and sweet spices. The 2017 vintage benefited from a warm, favourable growing season in Rioja, yielding wines with excellent ripeness and potential for ageing.

Rioja, Spain's most celebrated wine region, is situated along the Ebro River in north-central Spain. The region enjoys a unique microclimate shaped by both Atlantic and Mediterranean influences, providing moderate temperatures and plenty of sunshine, ideal for slow, even grape maturation. The soils are diverse, but in the area around Bodegas Ondarre, clay-limestone dominates, imparting finesse and complexity to the wines. Rioja's wine history spans centuries, with Reserva wines historically valued for their balance, complexity, and capability to evolve with age, attributes that are on full display in this cuvée.

As for food pairings, the Mayor de Ondarre Reserva is particularly well suited to traditional Spanish cuisine. It is exceptional with roasted lamb, a Riojan classic, as well as dishes like chorizo-studded stews, slow-cooked beef, or rosemary-scented grilled vegetables. For cheese lovers, it pairs beautifully with mature Manchego. Beyond regional fare, this wine’s balance of fruit and acidity makes it a versatile companion for assorted earthy Mediterranean dishes, roasted poultry, or even mushroom risotto.

For optimum enjoyment, decant the wine for about an hour to allow the aromas to fully unfold. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C, which will highlight both its fruit-driven charm and its refined, savoury complexity. This wine can be savoured now for its freshness and elegance, or cellared for several more years to further develop tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, and dried fruit.