Wines Rioja Hacienda López de Haro - San Vicente de la Sonsierra - 2018

Hacienda López de Haro 2018, Cuvée San Vicente de la Sonsierra, is a red wine hailing from the famed Rioja region of Spain. This wine, presented in a classic 75cl bottle, likely expresses the style that has made Rioja wines so revered: a harmonious balance of ripe fruit, subtle spice, and supple tannins. Though the specific blend is not detailed, it is common for Rioja reds to be crafted around Tempranillo, often supported by Garnacha and possibly Graciano or Mazuelo, lending both structure and aromatic complexity. The 2018 vintage was marked by favourable weather conditions, suggesting a wine with both brightness and depth. Maturation, which often involves a period in oak barrels, typically imparts gentle notes of vanilla, toast, and sweet spice, complementing the fruit-driven core.

La Rioja as a region boasts a rich winemaking heritage, with centuries of tradition underpinning its reputation as Spain's preeminent wine area. Here, vineyards are shaped by a unique mesoclimate, situated between the Atlantic influence to the north and the warmer conditions of central Spain. The soils vary from calcareous clay to iron-rich ferrous terrain, providing excellent drainage and imparting distinct mineral notes. San Vicente de la Sonsierra, in particular, is esteemed for its elevated sites and old vines, contributing finesse and concentration to the wines produced.

For food pairing, this style of Rioja is versatile and food-friendly. It excels alongside classic Spanish cuisine such as grilled lamb cutlets (chuletillas al sarmiento), slow-cooked oxtail (rabo de toro), or a rich fabada with chorizo and morcilla. Mediterranean roast vegetables, mushroom-based dishes, or a selection of aged Manchego also make for excellent companions, allowing the wine’s structure and aromatic profile to shine.

To best appreciate its character, decanting for an hour can encourage the wine to open up and reveal its subtle complexities. Serve at 16-18°C to allow both freshness and depth of flavour. Enjoy observing how the wine evolves in the glass, reflecting the tradition and nuance of Rioja reds.