Valserrano Crianza 2009

SWIC score: 87 (JMG)
Tasting notes: Blackberries, sweet fruit, vanilla, direct, intense.

Available: ON (VINTAGES 338863 - $ 18.95)

Winery: Viñedos y Bodegas de la Marquesa

Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja (Alavesa)

Varieties: 90% Tempranillo, 10% Mazuelo

Ageing: 18 months in American and French oak barrels

Alcohol level: 14.0% alc./vol.

Family, their own vineyards, respect for quality and well done work are the main concepts that Viñedos y Bodegas de la Marquesa has followed since its foundation by the second half of 19^th century. Nowadays, the fifth generation of the De Simón family (brothers Pablo, Jaime and María) takes on the tasks and responsibilities of the business, taking care of the 160 acres of family-owned vineyards and the whole process of winemaking. This Valserrano Crianza 2009 is a good example of a Rioja Alavesa wine, made mainly with Tempranillo (90%) with a small addition of Mazuelo. It was aged for 18 months in American and French oak barrels, and then stored for a few months in large vats before bottling to ensure good harmonisation. It was scored with plus than 90 points by both Wine Advocate and International Wine Cellar.

Vintage tasted: 2009 (July 2013)