Rioja, Spain
La Rioja Alta
Rioja is one of the world’s most famous wine growing regions and this winery, Vina Valoria, can brag that they’ve been producing wines from the area since the 60s….1860’s that is! That makes Vina Valoria the fifth oldest producer in the region and one of only ten producers to be allowed to release “old vintages” from before 1980.
To be labelled Reserva it has to follow strict Rioja wine laws – aged for a minimum of 3 years including 12 months in oak (this one got all 36 months in American oak!). The result is truly classic Rioja with bold, powerful fruit mirrored by smoky, woody notes and wood spice. Firm tannins make this a perfect pairing with grilled flank steak and sautéed wild mushrooms.