Vina Real Crianza 2019

Winery Background

Vina Real is part of the renowned CVNE (Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España) winery, located in the Rioja Alavesa subregion of Rioja, Spain. Established in 1920, Vina Real focuses on producing modern Riojas with a strong emphasis on balance between fruit and oak influence, integrating traditional winemaking with innovative techniques.

Producer

CVNE is one of the oldest and most prestigious wine producers in Spain, founded in 1879. It is family-owned and known for creating a wide range of high-quality wines from the Rioja region.

Vineyard

The vineyards used for Vina Real Crianza are located in Rioja Alavesa, known for producing wines with a distinctive finesse and depth. The region’s calcareous clay soils and the Mediterranean climate create ideal conditions for growing Tempranillo, the dominant grape in this wine.

Wine

Vina Real Crianza 2019 is a classic expression of Rioja wine, made primarily from Tempranillo (90%), blended with small amounts of Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano to add complexity and structure. It balances fruit flavors with oak aging, creating a rounded and approachable wine.

Vintage

The 2019 vintage in Rioja was excellent, with near-perfect growing conditions. The summer was warm, with just enough rainfall to support healthy grape ripening, leading to a vintage that is both concentrated and elegant, showing vibrant fruit and well-integrated tannins.

Vinification and Aging

The wine underwent fermentation in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures. After fermentation, the wine was aged for 12 months in oak barrels (a mix of American and French oak), giving it its characteristic vanilla, spice, and toasty notes, while allowing the fruit flavors to shine.

Grapes

• Tempranillo (90%)

• Garnacha, Mazuelo, Graciano (10% combined)

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby color with bright reflections.

• Nose: Aromas of red and black fruits such as cherries, blackberries, and plums, with hints of vanilla, cedar, and subtle spice from the oak.

• Palate: Medium-bodied with fine tannins and well-balanced acidity. The fruit flavors are complemented by notes of vanilla, clove, and toast, leading to a smooth, long finish.

Food and Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, such as:

• Grilled lamb chops

• Roasted pork

• Beef stew

• Manchego cheese

• Paella with rabbit or chicken

Service

Serve at a temperature of around 16-18°C (60-64°F). It is recommended to decant the wine for 30 minutes before serving to let the aromas fully open up.

Storage

Store this wine in a cool, dark place at a temperature between 12-16°C (54-60°F). It can be consumed now, but will continue to develop for the next 4-5 years.

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 89 points

• James Suckling: 93 points

• Wine Advocate: 91 points

This wine is an excellent example of Rioja Crianza, offering both tradition and modernity, with vibrant fruit flavors balanced by the influence of oak.