BY UE STUDIO
Updated Wednesday,20December2023 - 17:51
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Proof of this are the successes that the DOCa Rioja obtains in the reports and classifications of famous prescribers and critics, such as the recent "TOP 100 Wines of Spain 2023" ranking, prepared by the famous American expert James Suckling, where Rioja wines account for a third of the coveted list, or the report by the critic Michael Hudin, which celebrates a large number of Rioja wines, collecting more references from the DOCa than from other Denominations of Spain.
In addition to the reds of Rioja, which have a well-established reputation, the rosés of this region are also excellent and gaining more and more followers: Elizabeth Gabay, considered the world's greatest expert on rosés, places 8 wines from the DOCa at the top of her ranking "The Rosé Report 2023". The British journalist Tim Atkin also positions some Rioja whites as the best in the world, while at the same time highlighting the quality of other varieties in the Designation. So, with the arrival of Christmas, the perfect opportunity presents itself to explore some of the jewels that the DOCa Rioja holds (and not only in the form of wine).
White wines: refinement and pleasant surprise in every sip
Remírez de Ganuza Blanca Gran Reserva 2013.
We start our winemaking journey with a Gran Reserva Blanco from Bodegas Remírez de Ganuza. Made exclusively with Viura grapes from the Olagar vineyard, this wine has delighted the palates of the most connoisseur prescribers. Fermented in French barrels, it has a straw yellow colour, offering a fruity, fresh and persistent mid-palate. Undoubtedly, an elegant choice for the most special celebrations.
Montes Obarenes 2019
Another option that cannot be missed this Christmas is Montes Obarenes from Bodega Gómez Cruzado. Made with the indigenous varieties Tempranillo Blanco and Viura, this bright white is floral and fruity, aged in French oak barrels and concrete eggs. A good personification that brings voluptuousness to any table.
Red wines: elegance and silkiness
Viñasperi Blue Ocean
Viñasperi Blue Ocean, from Bodegas Carlos San Pedro Pérez de Viñaspre, is also a true jewel in the world of reds. Made with the Tempranillo variety and aged in American and French oak barrels, this wine offers a deep color with violet tones. Its uniqueness lies in its persistence in the mouth, creating an experience that lasts over time. The perfect choice for those looking to enjoy excellence in every sip.
My Place
Produced by Bodegas Queirón, made with Tempranillo and Grenache and aged for 18 months in American and French oak barrels. My Place is a promise of hope. When served in the glass, it bursts into aromas of red fruit and freshly picked cherries. A young wine full of meaning, pure silkiness and elegance, the ideal choice for those looking to travel through the senses.
Sinodo Los Tollos Singular Vineyard
The first vintage of the Sínodo Vitivinícola winery to have the new qualification of Singular Vineyard of Rioja is another great recommendation to enjoy these dates. Specifically, San Miguel Sínodo Los Tollos Viñedo Singular is made with the varieties of Tempranillo, Mazuelo and Malvasía and is aged for 11 months. It is a wine of limited production and contrasting quality, which with its deep and bright cherry red color will be the protagonist of Christmas celebrations.
Sparkling wines: for the most festive celebrations
Urbina Sparkling Brut 2017 Bottle.
The variety of Rioja sparkling wines pairs perfectly with the most emblematic dinners, where toasting becomes a ritual. Made using the traditional champoise method, Bodegas Urbina's Valle del Ángel Brut comes from Viura grapes from vineyards over 35 years old in Cuzcurrita. The pale gold color and fine bubbles of this Brut pas dosé form a crown of delicate foam, offering an effervescent experience.
Exclusive Rioja brand experiences
True connoisseurs and great lovers of oenology know that the choice of a good wine transcends the palate; It is an experience of unique sensations and nuances. Awarded as the Best Spanish Winery in the Best Of Wine Tourism International 2023, Marqués de Murrieta offers tastings accompanied by a gourmet snack or even a paired haute cuisine menu. In addition, it offers the possibility of visiting the castle -Ygay winery- converted into a museum, where you can discover a private collection of belongings, documents, original labels, its historic cellar and the aging rooms. Marqués de Murrieta offers a unique setting to learn first-hand about the history of Spanish wines. Its name is known all over the world as a synonym of exclusivity and know-how, but above all, if there is one thing that makes the winery stand out, it is that it has been able to maintain the perfect balance between tradition and avant-garde.
The Marqués de Murrieta winery.
Marqués de Riscal presents a complete, original and unforgettable experience to visitors in its City of Wine. Recognized as the second best winery and vineyard in the world in the World's Best Vineyards, held for the first time in Rioja, this winery is a true wine destination that invites us to visit unique spaces, including the luxurious Hotel Marqués de Riscal, a Luxury Collection Hotel, designed by architect Frank O. Gehry, an avant-garde building of the 21st century. The sensory part is completed with the Caudalie Wine Therapy Spa and the gastronomic offer that has the advice of the Riojan chef Francis Paniego, a Michelin-starred restaurant, provide an unparalleled experience for wine and architecture lovers.
Interior of one of the rooms of the Marqués de Riscal Winery.
The Cosme Palacio winery is the ultimate destination for those who revere winemaking as an art. A winery from 1894, converted into the first "invitation-only" accommodation in Spain. The building of La Casa Cosme Palacio is today an exclusive accommodation to receive your guests and make them feel at home, providing them with an exquisite service. Each room symbolises a unique place, blending in with the whole of La Casa and the surroundings of the Ebro Valley. Where you can live an unforgettable experience and enjoy a discreet and impeccable service. In addition, it has a gastronomic proposal based on local products, with spa services, activities and a gastronomic offer under the supervision of chef David Fernández.
Exterior of Casa Cosme Palacio
Made by UE Studio
This text has been developed by UE Studio, creative branded content and content marketing firm of Unidad Editorial, paraDOCA RIOJA