This top-quality wine is made from two grape varieties, Graciano and Tempranillo, sourced from the best and oldest vineyards in Rioja. The old vines, with their thick trunks, have deeply dug roots, allowing them to easily absorb nutrients and moisture. The climatic conditions are perfect, with abundant sunshine and a refreshing breeze and cool nighttime temperatures. All of this contributes to a unique harvest and gives the wine its own unique character. After being harvested by hand, this Reserva is aged for an impressive 24 months in oak barrels. American oak barrels are used for this purpose, as they better complement the wine. Some of the barrels are unused, as this enhances the flavor and aroma of this red wine. After this important period, the wine is bottle-aged for at least 12 months in the Cruz del Castillo cellars. This is going to be a treat!
Opening the bottle, we knew for sure: this was going to be a treat. As we poured, we saw a beautiful dark purple color with red highlights. It scented the glass, giving us hints of vanilla, oak, spices, and chocolate. A vigorous swirl of the glass unleashes all the aromas, bringing to mind nuances of leather, tobacco, and black pepper. On the palate, it's a picture-perfect wine, with deep and powerful flavors of black fruit and a variety of spices. Lovely notes of vanilla and oak, along with some tobacco, cocoa, and pepper.
