Viniou Reviews
Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España’s Rioja Gran Reserva 2015 is a distinguished red wine that showcases the epitome of traditional Rioja winemaking. Crafted primarily from Tempranillo, often blended with Graciano and Mazuelo in the Gran Reserva style, this wine is the result of meticulous selection of both grapes and vineyard parcels. The 2015 vintage benefitted from favorable weather conditions, resulting in perfectly ripened fruit and structure. After fermentation, the wine spends several years aging in oak barrels—often American oak for Rioja classics—followed by extended bottle aging, lending it its signature depth, complexity, and refinement. In the glass, you can expect a deep garnet color, with aromas of ripe red berries, dried figs, leather, tobacco, and hints of vanilla. The palate is elegant and harmonious, with softened tannins, balanced acidity, and a persistent, nuanced finish.
Rioja, in northern Spain, is one of the country’s most celebrated wine regions and holds a long-standing reputation dating back centuries. The area benefits from a unique confluence of Atlantic and Mediterranean climates, bringing both coolness and sun that help the grapes ripen slowly and evenly. The soils are a mix of clay, limestone, and iron—an ideal matrix for the Tempranillo grape, which dominates the blend. These conditions, along with strict ageing requirements for Gran Reserva wines, contribute to the exceptional age-worthiness and aromatic complexity for which Rioja is known.
A Rioja Gran Reserva of this caliber calls for food pairings that highlight its structure and complexity. Classic Spanish pairings include roast lamb, game meats such as venison, or a slow-cooked beef stew. Try it with aged Manchego cheese, ibérico ham, or richer dishes with earthy undertones, such as mushroom risotto or oven-roasted vegetables. Dishes with subtle spice or Mediterranean herbs complement the wine’s savory nuances.
For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for at least an hour before serving to allow its bouquet to open up fully. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C to appreciate the finesse and developed flavors characteristic of a mature Rioja Gran Reserva.
