Faustino I 1973 Gran Reserva

Wine: Faustino I 1973 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Faustino Martínez (Oyón, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 70% Tempranillo, 15% Graciano, 15% Mazuelo
ABV: [Not specified]
Winemaking

The wine spent 16 months in concrete vats to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilize. It was matured for 24 to 30 months in 225-liter barrels (90% American oak, 10% French and Yugoslavian) with an average age of 15 to 16 years. Bottled in the iconic frosted glass container. Aged in the bottle for a minimum of 36 months in the winery’s underground cellars prior to release.

 

Tasting Notes
 

Appearance: Beautiful, very clear brownish-ruby with medium-low depth (capa); luminous and bright. It displays amber and reddish highlights with very fine sediment. The rim is broad and fully tawny (tile-red).

 

Nose: Good intensity—open, autumnal, and rich with nuances of shaded forest floor, candied chestnuts (marron glacé, syrup, quince), hand-ground spices, smoked pepper, and a background of high-quality seasoned wood. Very serious and elegant, with a soft, twilight-like character (crepuscular). It reveals glimpses of concentrated red fruit, candied notes, vanilla, orange zest, licorice, and charcoal.

 

Palate: On the palate, it delivers exactly what is expected: roundness, smoothness, and order. While the most frequent criticism of this label is its struggle to break away from its ultra-classic house style and showcase vintage characteristics, this is not the case here. It is fresh and firm, with velvety tannins and perfect acidity. An extraordinary abundance of spices ensures a persistent finish. Our best Faustino to date! Looking back at how the 1973 wines are showing today, it is difficult to understand why the Regulatory Council only rated this vintage as "Good" (Buena)... It wouldn't hurt if we were just as demanding today. A lost cause?

 

Personal Score: 91
Tasting Group Score: 90