Viniou Reviews
The R. López de Heredia Viña Cubillo 2011, from the prestigious Rioja region in Spain, is a red blend emblematic of traditional craftsmanship. The wine is typically based mainly on Tempranillo, complemented by Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano, harvested from the Viña Cubillo vineyard. The 2011 vintage benefited from a relatively warm and balanced growing season, allowing for optimal ripeness balanced with structure. This estate is renowned for sticking to classic methods: long ageing in American oak barrels – often for three years or more – followed by further rest in bottle before release. The result is a wine with beautiful garnet hues, a nose of dried cherries, leather, tobacco and subtle notes of sweet spices. On the palate, it delivers a harmonious balance of savoury red fruit, earthy undertones and a refreshing acidity, demonstrating both elegance and complexity.
Rioja, located in northern Spain and shaped by the Ebro River, is distinguished by its rich winemaking heritage dating back centuries. The Viña Cubillo vineyard sits in the Alta sub-zone, known for its slightly higher altitude and its particularly chalky clay and alluvial soils, which support nuanced expressions of Tempranillo. The climate here is influenced by both Atlantic and Mediterranean factors, characterised by warm summers, cool nights and moderate rainfall, all of which contribute to the elegance and age-worthiness of the region’s wines. The area’s storied history is apparent in the continued use of traditional winemaking and ageing techniques, as seen at López de Heredia.
This style of Rioja is exceptionally versatile at the table. It pairs splendidly with roasted lamb, especially cordero asado – a classic from the region – as well as aged Manchego cheese and dishes with earthy mushrooms or piquillo peppers. The wine’s restrained tannins and lively acidity make it a delightful match for charcuterie, slow-cooked meats or even lightly spiced Mediterranean fare, such as chorizo stews.
For the optimal experience, serve the Viña Cubillo 2011 at 16-18°C after allowing it time to breathe in a decanter. This will reveal its layered bouquet and silky texture, delivering all the hallmarks of a great classic Rioja.
