Wine: Conde de Valdemar 1976 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Martínez Bujanda (Oyón, Rioja Alavesa)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 80% Tempranillo, 20% Mazuelo
ABV: 13%
Winery: Bodegas Martínez Bujanda (Oyón, Rioja Alavesa)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 80% Tempranillo, 20% Mazuelo
ABV: 13%
Winemaking:
The fruit was sourced exclusively from estate-owned vineyards across the three Rioja sub-zones, specifically from Tudelilla, Cenicero, and Oyón. Following manual harvesting and a secondary table selection at the winery, each varietal was vinified separately. The wine rested in large tanks for 6 to 12 months for fermentation and stabilization without temperature control. It then matured for 36 to 42 months in new 225-liter American oak barrels, with periodic manual barrel-to-barrel rackings. After blending and a very light filtration, the wine underwent a minimum of three years of bottle aging in the winery’s cellars before release.
The fruit was sourced exclusively from estate-owned vineyards across the three Rioja sub-zones, specifically from Tudelilla, Cenicero, and Oyón. Following manual harvesting and a secondary table selection at the winery, each varietal was vinified separately. The wine rested in large tanks for 6 to 12 months for fermentation and stabilization without temperature control. It then matured for 36 to 42 months in new 225-liter American oak barrels, with periodic manual barrel-to-barrel rackings. After blending and a very light filtration, the wine underwent a minimum of three years of bottle aging in the winery’s cellars before release.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Brownish-ruby with medium depth; clear and translucent. The glass is
slightly tinted by a very fine sediment. Vibrant copper and reddish
reflections. Broad, tawny (atejado) rim with almost no contrast against the meniscus.
Nose:
It shows a slight hesitation upon opening—initially tight and dominated
by luxurious wood, cedar, candied fruit, and smoked spices. Despite
this early restraint, it overcomes the "corset" to gain purity and
definition. A pure, deep, and perfumed Tempranillo emerges, remarkably
fresh and dressed in earthy notes, leaf litter, and walnut bark. A
stylistic bridge between classical and modern Rioja.
Palate:
It melts on the palate—silky, caressing, and velvety. It cushions a
very fine framework of toasted notes (roasted coffee, blond tobacco,
pastry cream). Distinguished and fully poised, it is broad without
excessive weight or structure, flowing with great elegance.
Commentary:
A highly recommended 1976, standing among the best produced in Rioja that year. It comfortably outperforms the inconsistent 1975 lots from the same house, justifying the premium price it commanded in the late 90s. While it doesn't reach the legendary heights of the 1960s "Hidalguía" bottlings, it is undoubtedly a great wine. It has likely reached its peak; to be enjoyed without haste over the coming years. Truly delicious.
A highly recommended 1976, standing among the best produced in Rioja that year. It comfortably outperforms the inconsistent 1975 lots from the same house, justifying the premium price it commanded in the late 90s. While it doesn't reach the legendary heights of the 1960s "Hidalguía" bottlings, it is undoubtedly a great wine. It has likely reached its peak; to be enjoyed without haste over the coming years. Truly delicious.
Personal Score: 94
Tasting Group Average: 93
Tasting Group Average: 93
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