Hugonell Reserva, Hugonell, Rioja

Tasting Note

This is a classically-made Rioja, which shows wonderful integration of rich and plummy fruit with cedar and spice oak flavours. A warm and heady palate leads to a mature and rich finish.

Producer Note

Rioja has many different styles, from the traditional strawberry, oaky Bordeaux-influenced wines to some of the more modern, lighter styles. We searched for the best of both worlds - fruit-driven modern wine at Joven level and more concentrated and typical flavours in the Crianza and Reserva levels. Aldeanueva de Ebro ("new hamlet of the Ebro") rises against the wind on the plateau that runs from the slopes of Mount Yerga to the River Ebro. The vineyards contain different types of soils, pebble and clay, at widely varying altitudes, which, together with intensive sun exposure and low rainfall, define the vineyards of Aldeanueva, offering great potential for quality grapes, characterised by their intense colour, medium-high alcohol and great health. The growers of this area produce the Hugonell Joven. The Ondarre winery, 10km from Logrono, the Riojas capital, is the specialist division of The Bodegas Olarra Group for producing Crianza and Reserva wines. The Bodegas Olarra Group has worked for years at the forefront of wine producing initiatives. The importers work with Olarra/Ondarre on Hugonell Crianza and Reserva.

Winemaking

Each grape variety was fermented separately in temperature controlled vats lasting 16-18 days at 28-30ºC. The wine is racked for 1 year in stainless steel.

Ageing

16 months in American and French oak barriques, followed by further ageing in bottle. The wine is only released for sale when it is ready for drinking at its best.

Serving Suggestion

At room temperature to accompany roast meats, game and stews.

Grape

Tempranillo 75%, Mazuela 15%, Garnacha 10%