Viña Real 1994 Gran Reserva

Wine: Viña Real 1994 Gran Reserva
Winery: CVNE - Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja (Rioja Alavesa)
Varietals: 95% Tempranillo, 5% Graciano
ABV: 13%
Winemaking: Grapes sourced entirely from vineyards in Rioja Alavesa. Cold alcoholic fermentation followed by malolactic fermentation in new French and American oak barrels. Racked every 3 months for natural stabilization and clarification. The wine underwent 36 months of aging in second-fill 225-liter oak barrels. Fined with fresh egg whites. Aged for a minimum of 3 years in the winery’s underground cellars prior to release.
 
Tasting Notes:
 
Appearance: Bright, dark reddish-ruby with medium-high depth (capa). It shows luminous pomegranate and amber highlights. The rim is narrow and orange-toned, suggesting significant density and body.
 
Nose: Fully expressive and powerful, bursting with very mature fruit; initially shows a hint of reduction upon opening. It is elegant, with a high-quality toasted background that is both creamy and spicy. As it settles, it reveals an absolutely classic profile that recalls the historic Viña Real style more than almost any other modern vintage. Nuances of cured leather, fine cabinetry, and dried fruits (figs, carob, prunes) are complemented by notes of Werther's Original caramel and a very soft smokiness evocative of English pipe tobacco (Virginia) and cigar humidors. The overall impression is one of great finesse, built upon a notable concentration of reduced red fruits with a subtle liqueur-like touch.
 
Palate: Generous, full-bodied, and energetic. The entry is defined by a striking freshness and vibrant acidity. It possesses a spicy, almost medicinal-bitter edge that blends with toasted notes and spices. The ensemble is incredibly lively and savory, though still in the process of rounding out. The tannins are powerful, dry, and prominent, indicating that the wine still has room to soften and evolve.
 
Personal Score: 91
Tasting Group Score: 92

No comments: