Tasting Notes
Organic. This rare, fine and perfumed Rioja grape comprises barely two per cent of total plantings in La Rioja Alta. Valenciso is lucky enough to farm several old-vine Graciano parcels based around the villages of Haro and Ollauri. Due to the cooler, Atlantic-influenced climate of northern Rioja, Graciano sometimes has to fight to ripen fully, and so this wine is only released in exceptional vintages. 2019 was one of those years, when the long growing season afforded slow and even ripening conditions.
This 2019 is just the second release, yet it’s already well up to the quality of this estate’s other releases. Naturally fermented in concrete vats and aged for 24 months in low-impact Russian oak.
A cracking showcase for the dark-fruited personality, freshness and structure that define the variety. A top-drawer, serious Rioja and made to age, with sweet tobacco, balsamic and plummy intensity. - Importer Note
Valenciso are producing a refreshing take on the classic wines of Rioja. Situated in the slopes of Rioja Alta on limestone clay soils with organic farming, Valenciso is able to produce wines of remarkable freshness and energy. Most of these wines are produced in concrete tanks to allow the grapes to shine and express their wonderful terroir. Older Caucasian oak is used sparingly to provide structure to the wines rather than to overpower the natural fruit.
Every wine in this collection is fantastic and justifies their place in the lineup. The white wine displays a remarkable complexity and texture that the winemaker Diego told me serves as a much more affordable alternative white Burgundy. As for the reds, lovers of old school Bordeaux and classic Italian reds would love these. - Aaron C
| Product Type | Wine Red Other Varietals & Blends |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Country | Spain |
| Region | Rioja |
| Winemaking Practices | Minimal Intervention |
| Vineyard Practices | Organic/Biodynamic |