Wine Club: Classic Riojanos

This month, we highlight one of only two regions designated DOQ in España. La Rioja has long produced some of the world’s greatest wines. Though they do make some whites and rosés, the region is known for vino tinto.

We’ve chosen two bottles that we love from two producers we admire. From Señor de Lesmos, we present their 2016 Crianza. This blend of organically farmed Tempranillo (85%) and Mazuelo (aka Carineña, 15%), spends a little over a year in oak, then some time in concrete vats, before bottling. The result is full of dark cherry, with a touch of vanilla and eucalyptus, and a rich yet refreshing texture.

From Viña Otano, get ready for their impeccable 2015 Reserva. Reserva means long barrel resting, which imparts notes of tobacco and baking spice, and dims the intensity of the vanilla aromas to achieve sublime balance. It also smooths the wine, giving it a silky and alluring texture. While this beauty is exceptional right now, it could also rest for another decade and continue to improve.

If you’d like to learn more about Rioja, check out this spotlight piece we did!

While we patiently await the day when a release party is safe again, we continue to offer in store pick up at both of our locations. If you’d like delivery, you can credit your Wine Club towards that! Give us a call at our Shaw location or email us at 202-525-5702 to set this up. 

We look forward to seeing you soon!