Reserva Rioja

Reserva Rioja

Reserva Rioja wines are a step up in quality and aging requirements from the Crianza category, known for their complexity, structure, and balanced flavors.

All about Reserva Rioja

Appearance

Appearance:

Color: Deep ruby to garnet, with some wines showing brick-like hues due to aging.
Opacity: Medium to high, indicating a concentrated wine with rich color saturation.

Aroma

Aroma:

Primary Aromas:Red fruits such as cherry and raspberry, often with darker fruit notes like plum and blackcurrant.
Secondary Aromas: Oak aging contributes aromas of vanilla, coconut, and baking spices, along with subtle earthy undertones.
Tertiary Aromas: With extended aging, Reserva wines can develop complex aromas of dried fruit, leather, tobacco, and sometimes hints of balsamic or truffle.

Flavor Profile

Flavor Profile:

Fruit Flavors: Ripe red and dark fruits including cherry, raspberry, and blackcurrant.
Other Flavors: Oak influence introduces flavors of vanilla, cedar, and sweet spice. Aged Reservas may also show hints of leather, tobacco, and dried herbs.
Oak Influence: Significant, as Reserva wines are required to spend at least one year in oak barrels. The use of both American and French oak can impart varying flavors, from vanilla and coconut to spice and smoke.

Structure

Structure:

Body: Medium to full-bodied, providing a satisfying mouthfeel.
Tannins: Medium to high, offering structure and aging potential.
Acidity: Medium to high, contributing to the wine’s freshness and ability to age well.
Alcohol: Around 13.5% to 14.5%.