Viña Berceo 1980 Gran Reserva

Wine: Viña Berceo 1980 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Berceo (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 80% Tempranillo, 10% Mazuelo, 10% Graciano.
ABV: 12%

Winemaking
Grapes sourced from estate vineyards and smallholders in Rioja Alta. The wine spent 12 months in large oak vats to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilize before wood aging. It was subsequently matured for 24 to 30 months in 225-liter American oak barriques. Bottled in 70 cl format. It underwent an extensive bottle aging period of at least 6 years in the winery’s historic subterranean cellars (calados) on Cuevas Street prior to its commercial release.

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Reddish-ruby of medium-high depth; remarkably stable and clean with reddish and orange glints. It features a distinct tawny (tile-red) rim.

 

Nose: Displays medium intensity with a quintessential classic profile. It is dominated by elegant smoky notes, aged leather, wet oak staves, and vanilla, underpinned by a balsamic lift of sage, ivy, and aromatic herbs. The bouquet evolves steadily, revealing liqueur-like fruit, sloe berries, ripe cherries, and candied nuances. Poised and in great condition.

 

Palate: Solid and concentrated on the palate—more powerful than expected compared to other vintages of the same era. Savory and well-executed, showing "fatty" and warm tannins. It possesses a certain robustness, supported by a correct acidity and a generous amount of reduced red fruit that provides a very pleasant touch of sweetness. Rounded, mature, and compact; a reliable and upright red. Currently the finest expression among the winery's historic range, performing above the Gonzalo de Berceo GR.

 

Personal Score: 90
Tasting Group Score (els12golafres): 89