Campo Viejo 1966 Reserva

Wine: Campo Viejo 1966 Reserva

Winery: Bodegas Campo Viejo (Logroño, La Rioja)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 80% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano.
ABV: — (Not specified)

Winemaking

Grapes selected from various plots in Rioja Alta. The wine remained for 18 months in old wooden vats for fermentation and stabilization before racking. It matured for 30 months in used 225-liter American oak barrels, with two manual rackings performed each year. Bottled in December 1971. It underwent a minimum of 2 years of bottle aging in the winery’s cellars prior to its commercial release. Note: Although the D.O. seal classifies it as Crianza, the label indicates Reserva. Based on its extensive aging, it aligns with Gran Reserva standards.

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Brownish-ruby color with medium-low depth; remarkably clear, clean, and brilliant. It displays pomegranate and orange reflections. Wide, tawny/brick-colored rim, showing little distinction from the meniscus.

 

Nose: The first impression closely recalls the 1970 vintage, with certain details reminiscent of 1964. Refined, clean, and expressive, maintaining a notable intensity throughout. The nose is filled with classic aging cues: old leather, nutmeg, vanilla, and a background of stable and wet hair. It evolves slowly, revealing a greater presence of red fruits, liqueur-like notes, and soft spices.

Palate: Less full-bodied and vivid than other vintages from the same period, yet it shines at a high level. Fresh, light, and acidulous with an immediate impact. It features a marked sensation of bitter notes (licorice, balsams) and very elegant, creamy toasted nuances. Round, fine, and balanced, supported by an intense acidity.

 

Commentary

The 1966 Reserva belongs to the golden era of Bodegas Campo Viejo. It is a wine that leaves no one indifferent, capturing the essence of traditional Rioja with its balance and refined tertiary character. While slightly more slender than its 1964 counterpart, its structural integrity and freshness are remarkable for a wine of this age. A nostalgic red that makes one long for the historic quality these cellars once provided.

 

Personal Score: 90
Tasting Group Average: 91