Wine: Excelso 1982 Gran Reserva
Winery: Bodegas Franco-Españolas (Logroño, Rioja Alta)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 80% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 10% Mazuelo
ABV: 12.5%
Winery: Bodegas Franco-Españolas (Logroño, Rioja Alta)
Appellation / Zone: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 80% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano, 10% Mazuelo
ABV: 12.5%
Winemaking:
The majority of the grapes are sourced from estate vineyards, with a small portion from growers in Rioja Alta. Following manual harvest in mid-October and a second selection at the winery, alcoholic fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The wine spent 12 months in large, founding-era seasoned oak vats to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilization. It was then aged for 36 to 48 months in 225-liter American oak barrels (from Ohio and Kentucky) with a medium toast. Subjected to two manual rackings per year and fined with fresh egg whites. Aged for a minimum of three years in the winery’s Logroño cellars before release.
The majority of the grapes are sourced from estate vineyards, with a small portion from growers in Rioja Alta. Following manual harvest in mid-October and a second selection at the winery, alcoholic fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The wine spent 12 months in large, founding-era seasoned oak vats to complete malolactic fermentation and stabilization. It was then aged for 36 to 48 months in 225-liter American oak barrels (from Ohio and Kentucky) with a medium toast. Subjected to two manual rackings per year and fined with fresh egg whites. Aged for a minimum of three years in the winery’s Logroño cellars before release.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Ruby-red with medium-low depth; very clear and limpid with no signs of
sediment. Vibrant amber reflections and a brilliant sheen. Subtle sense
of viscosity with dense legs. Broad, tawny (atejado) rim.
Nose:
Aromas of extreme maturity: molasses, Virginia tobacco, candied fruit,
cherries, and orange marmalade, marked by a distinct vanilla and coconut
milk backdrop. It unfolds unhurriedly, revealing subtle toasted notes,
old leather, creamy registers, and sweet spices. A curious hint of dried
fruit (currants, apricots, pajarete) and sugar glaze adds complexity. While not exceptionally deep, it is pleasant and reliable.
Palate: More concentrated than expected, recalling in many ways the Tête de Cuvée
bottlings produced by Franco-Españolas in earlier decades. Savory and
full, with lingering notes of oak and vanilla supported by polished yet
present tannins. A persistent sweet and spicy nuance remains throughout,
balanced by correct acidity.
Commentary:
A technically sound red that is very easy to enjoy. While it lacks the profound depth of the legendary historic Excelso releases—hardly surprising given the monumental standards of this label in the past—it remains a highly recommended and rewarding bottle.
A technically sound red that is very easy to enjoy. While it lacks the profound depth of the legendary historic Excelso releases—hardly surprising given the monumental standards of this label in the past—it remains a highly recommended and rewarding bottle.
Personal Score: 89
Tasting Group Average: 89
Tasting Group Average: 89
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