Viniou Reviews
Beronia Reserva 2020 from Rioja offers an impeccable expression of Spain’s most celebrated red wine region. Blended primarily from Tempranillo, alongside portions of Graciano and Mazuelo, this cuvée showcases the classic attributes of Rioja reds. The grapes are cultivated on the foothills of the Sierra de Cantabria, where a mix of chalky clay and alluvial soils lends complexity and freshness. The 2020 vintage benefited from an overall balanced climate, marked by moderately warm days and cool nights, allowing for slow, even ripening. In Beronia’s cellars, the wine is traditionally aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels for at least 18 months, followed by further resting in bottle. This maturation process imparts notes of vanilla, sweet spice, and well-integrated tannins, all supporting a core of ripe red and black fruits.
Rioja enjoys a unique geographical position in northern Spain, shielded by mountains from the harshest Atlantic and Mediterranean influences. This results in a continental climate with moderate rainfall, cool springs, and warm summers. The region’s soils, with a blend of limestone, sand, and clay, promote water retention and minerality in the wines. Rioja’s winemaking traditions stretch back centuries, with the DO established in 1925, making it one of Europe’s most venerable appellations.
This Beronia Reserva 2020, with its silky texture and harmonious balance of fruit and oak, pairs beautifully with classic Spanish cuisine. It is especially well suited to slow-cooked lamb or beef, dishes featuring piquillo peppers, or a selection of cured Ibérico meats. A traditional Riojan lamb stew (cordero al chilindrón) or grilled chuletillas de cordero showcase its versatility. For cheeses, opt for aged Manchego.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least an hour to let it fully unwind. Serve between 16-18°C to best appreciate its aromatic complexity and structured palate.
