Wines Rioja Bodega Faustino - Faustino 1 - 2009

Viniou Reviews

Faustino I Gran Reserva 2009 from Bodega Faustino is a celebrated red wine from the heart of La Rioja, Spain’s most prestigious and historic wine region. Crafted predominantly from the Tempranillo grape, with small percentages of Graciano and Mazuelo to amplify structure and complexity, the 2009 vintage benefits from excellent ripening conditions. This Gran Reserva is matured for an extensive period in oak barrels, followed by further ageing in bottle before release, yielding a wine of remarkable balance and refinement. In the glass, it reveals a beautiful garnet hue with brick-red highlights, promising aromas of dried cherry, tobacco, sweet spice, vanilla, and a delicate touch of leather. The palate is silky and harmonious, with layers of red fruits, elegant cedar, and refined tannins, leading to a persistent, graceful finish.

La Rioja, situated in northern Spain, is defined by its gentle continental climate, influenced by the Atlantic and protected by the Sierra Cantabria mountains. The region’s limestone and clay soils are ideal for Tempranillo, supporting slow ripening and concentration of flavours, and have nurtured viticulture for over 2,000 years. Today, Rioja is synonymous with tradition and quality, especially with its unique approach to long barrel ageing, which imparts characteristic savoury notes and a remarkable potential to evolve in bottle. Bodega Faustino, established in the late 19th century, is a flagship estate, revered worldwide for its classic style and meticulous craftsmanship.

This Gran Reserva’s depth and complexity make it a superb companion to traditional Spanish dishes, such as lamb roasted with rosemary, slow-cooked oxtail (rabo de toro), or riojana-style cod. It also pairs elegantly with mushroom risotto, mature Manchego cheese, or game birds like quail. For classic British fare, consider roast beef, venison stew, or firm, savoury cheeses.

To fully appreciate Faustino I Gran Reserva 2009’s subtleties, decant the wine for about an hour before serving. The ideal tasting temperature lies between 16-18°C, which will best express its layered bouquet and supple texture.