Bodegas Faustino I Gran Reserva 2011 1.5L

Winery Background and History

Bodegas Faustino, established in 1861, is a renowned winery located in Oyón, within Spain’s Rioja Alavesa region. Over its extensive history, spanning more than 160 years, the winery has become synonymous with high-quality Rioja wines, particularly its Gran Reserva offerings. The Faustino I Gran Reserva is especially notable, featuring an iconic label adorned with a Rembrandt portrait, a design choice that has become emblematic of the brand. This wine has achieved global recognition, becoming the world’s best-selling Rioja Gran Reserva. 

Producer and Winemaker

The Faustino I Gran Reserva 2011 was crafted under the guidance of the winemaking team at Bodegas Faustino. While specific details about the individual winemakers are not provided in the available sources, the team is known for its dedication to traditional Rioja winemaking techniques, combined with modern practices to ensure the production of high-quality wines.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Bodegas Faustino’s vineyards are situated in the Rioja Alavesa sub-region, characterized by a continental climate with Mediterranean influences. This area experiences warm summers and mild winters, with significant temperature variations between day and night, which are ideal for the cultivation of Tempranillo and other indigenous grape varieties. The soils are primarily clay-limestone, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the complexity and structure of the wines.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The 2011 Faustino I Gran Reserva is predominantly composed of Tempranillo, complemented by smaller proportions of Graciano and Mazuelo (Carignan). The exact percentages are not specified in the available sources.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2011 vintage underwent a meticulous vinification process, starting with hand-harvesting of the grapes to ensure optimal quality. Fermentation occurred in stainless steel tanks under controlled temperatures to preserve the varietal characteristics. Following fermentation, the wine was aged for at least 26 months in a combination of French and American oak barrels, imparting complexity and depth. After barrel aging, the wine was further refined in the bottle before release, adhering to the stringent aging requirements for Gran Reserva wines in Rioja. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The alcohol content of the 2011 Faustino I Gran Reserva is not explicitly stated in the available sources. However, Rioja Gran Reserva wines typically have an ABV ranging from 13.5% to 14.5%.

Tasting Notes

The 2011 Faustino I Gran Reserva presents a clean, bright red color, evolving towards maroon with age. The nose is intense and highly complex, offering notes of stewed fruit, sweet and warm hints from the barrel, and spicy nuances such as cinnamon. On the palate, it provides a pleasant entry, with slight acidity balanced by sweet notes of toasted oak and fruit. The finish is very long, marked by hints of stewed fruit and oak. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Gran Reserva pairs well with barbecued meats, seared tuna, and high-fat cured cheeses. It also complements mild Indian and Latin American dishes, grilled octopus with baked potatoes, and Asian cuisine such as Wagyu beef and Peking duck. Additionally, it can be enjoyed with desserts like baked cheesecake and chocolate cake. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its complexity, it is recommended to serve the 2011 Faustino I Gran Reserva at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C (60°F to 64°F). Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes prior to serving can help to open up its bouquet and soften the tannins, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2011 vintage is currently at a favorable stage for consumption, exhibiting well-developed flavors and aromas. With proper cellaring conditions—consistent temperature, moderate humidity, and protection from light—the wine can continue to evolve and maintain its quality for several more years, offering an even more refined drinking experience.

Scores

• James Suckling: 93 points

James Suckling described the wine as “A very pretty wine now with cedar, mushrooms and dried red fruit. Medium body, fine tannins and a subtle, polished finish.”