Campillo 1978 Gran Reserva

Wine: Campillo 1978 Gran Reserva

Winery: Bodegas Campillo - Grupo Faustino (Laguardia, Álava)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 100% Tempranillo.
ABV: 12.5% vol.

Winemaking

Grapes sourced from centennial Tempranillo vines, over 100 years old. Fermentation took place in large tanks for 6 to 12 months until the completion of all fermentations. The wine matured for 36 months in 225-liter French and American oak barrels, with several rackings performed annually. Limited production of 48,950 bottles (75 cl). It underwent a minimum of 3 years of bottle aging in the winery’s cellars prior to its commercial release.

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Brownish-ruby color with medium depth; clear and remarkably clean, without any trace of sediment. It displays luminous, reddish reflections. The rim is wide and completely tawny/brick-colored. (Note: Recently recorked at the winery).

 

Nose: This early-era Campillo presents itself halfway between modern and traditional Rioja, without fully defining its style. Frank, clean, and very powerful, showing minimal reductive notes. Dried fruit notes predominate (carob syrup, Izmir figs, raisins), accompanied by a battery of vanilla and high-quality toasted oak. Mature and open, the oak influence initially takes center stage, followed by emerging hints of wilted flowers and old leather.

 

Palate: It is currently in a perfect drinking window. Fuller-bodied than expected, well-rounded, and seamless, showing great balance. Order and equilibrium define the palate, featuring spectacular, silk-like tannins. Overall, a very impressive wine that is highly approachable and savory. It is difficult to believe this is a 100% Tempranillo monovarietal. A slight sensation of sweetness emerges, tempered by the acidity.

 

Commentary

This debut vintage of Campillo is well worth exploring, though it remains difficult to categorize—somewhat "out of context" for its era. While it offers an engaging and balanced experience with exceptional tannins, it lacks the definitive character of the Faustino bottlings from the same group. A polished and reliable red that bridges the gap between two winemaking philosophies.

 

Personal Score: 89
Tasting Group Average: 89