Wine: Beronia Cosecha Fundacional 1973 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Beronia (Ollauri, La Rioja)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: Tempranillo, Mazuelo, Graciano, and Viura.
ABV: 12.5% vol.
Winery: Bodegas Beronia (Ollauri, La Rioja)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: Tempranillo, Mazuelo, Graciano, and Viura.
ABV: 12.5% vol.
Winemaking:
Grapes sourced from clay-limestone vineyards around Ollauri in Rioja Alta. After alcoholic fermentation, the wine was transferred to small wooden vats for malolactic fermentation and stabilization. It matured for 48 months in semi-neutral 225-liter American oak barrels, with periodic rackings during the first three years. Originally bottled in mid-1978, it rested for at least 10 years in the cellars before its initial release in 1993. This special edition of 7,460 bottles was re-corked and released in 2003 to commemorate the winery's 30th anniversary.
Grapes sourced from clay-limestone vineyards around Ollauri in Rioja Alta. After alcoholic fermentation, the wine was transferred to small wooden vats for malolactic fermentation and stabilization. It matured for 48 months in semi-neutral 225-liter American oak barrels, with periodic rackings during the first three years. Originally bottled in mid-1978, it rested for at least 10 years in the cellars before its initial release in 1993. This special edition of 7,460 bottles was re-corked and released in 2003 to commemorate the winery's 30th anniversary.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Brownish-ruby color with medium-low depth; exceptionally clear,
translucent, and luminous. It is impeccably clean, showing no sediment.
Its almost pinkish hue evokes the style of certain 1970s Muga Gran Reservas. Brilliant coppery and amber reflections. Broad brick-orange rim, blending seamlessly with the meniscus.
Nose:
The most classical expression of Beronia to date. It offers frank yet
low-intensity aromas of spices and wine-soaked wood, nutmeg, and
vanilla. While it requires time to open, it shows no signs of fatigue or
negative reduction. It evolves steadily around a slightly herbaceous
core of laurel, sage, ivy, and tea leaves, eventually revealing
luxurious notes of chestnut, cedar, tung oil, wax, and fine leather.
Orderly, elegant, and profoundly traditional—a style that remains unique
within the winery’s history.
Palate:
Light and mature on the palate, showing a soft entry of sweet spices
and a subtle sweetness perfectly countered by integrated acidity.
Elegant and composed, it is a pleasure to drink, though it would benefit
from a touch more persistence.
Commentary:
The 1973 Cosecha Fundacional is a cornerstone for any enthusiast of traditional Rioja. It captures the foundational spirit of Beronia before its stylistic evolution, prioritizing finesse and aromatic sobriety over power. A serene and highly evocative wine that serves as a perfect benchmark for the 1973 vintage in Ollauri.
The 1973 Cosecha Fundacional is a cornerstone for any enthusiast of traditional Rioja. It captures the foundational spirit of Beronia before its stylistic evolution, prioritizing finesse and aromatic sobriety over power. A serene and highly evocative wine that serves as a perfect benchmark for the 1973 vintage in Ollauri.
Personal Score: 93
Tasting Group Average: 92
Tasting Group Average: 92
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