Sierra Cantabria – Rioja Reserva 2015.
Spain’s Rioja region is well known for its high-quality wines and impressive history. Rioja reds are Spain’s signature wines for almost 200 years. When you thinking of Rioja your mind immediately shifts to Tempranillo. Which also happens to be the number one red wine grape of Spain. Today we discuss a classic Rioja from Bodega Sierra Cantabria, made from 100% Tempranillo grapes. Made by brothers Marcos en Miquel Eguren and their sons who share a passion for sustainable winemaking.
About the Winery
Bodegas Sierra Cantabria was founded in 1870 by the Eguren family and has been passed down from father to son ever since. Flash forward to 2022 and 5 generations later Sierra Cantabria consists of six wineries, each with their own individual style. Located in the Basque region of Rioja Alavesa. Benefiting a continental climate that brings cold winters and hot summers, that get a slight cooling effect of Atlantic breezes over the Cantabrian mountains. The main grape cultivated is Tempranillo, with a little Garnacha and Graciano, also grown on the estate’s sustainably managed vineyards. All fruit is sourced from the winery´s own estate, providing the best quality. Rioja DOCa made of Tempranillo grapes, come from 30+ year old vineyards, located on clay-limestone and gravel soil. In addition to this Sierra Cantabria Rioja Reserva the winery offers 6 other varieties of Rioja wines.
About the Wine
In the glass a medium ruby- red color which looks inviting. When you let the wine swirl we discover ripe fruit, black berries and cherry. Marcos and Miquel aged the wine for 18 months in Bordelaise Barrels – 50% French and 50% American oak – which produces hints of oak and tobacco. Common traits that you desire in a Rioja. A very well-balanced wine with at first some acidity and fruit, followed by hints of dill and a round and elegant finish. A medium bodied Rioja which pairs very well with roasted or grilled meat dishes such as lamb or beef.
Conclusion:
A classical Rioja Reserva at a strong price point. This wine is overall fruity but also possesses nice structure and body, medium dry and rich in flavor from start to finish. The combination of French and American oak delivers nice depth and added complexity. Needs some air to open up and is best enjoyed with some red meat. Has some good ageing potential, expect further tertiary development in the next 10 years.
This Rioja Reserva by Sierra Cantabria is part of this month’s VINVIN Favourite Box, and also available by the bottle. You can find it through this link. Available in The Netherlands for €24,99 per individual bottle.
This review is written by Kirsten Andringa on behalf of Dutch Wine Apprentice.
Price: €24,99
Taste date: November 2022
Score: 91/100 DWA Score
Website: Sierra Cantabria