Rioja Reserva DOCa 2015

Vineyards

The grapes for this Rioja Reserva are sourced from Ontañon’s high-altitude vineyards in La Rioja, located between 500 and 700 metres above sea level. The clay and limestone soils provide excellent drainage, while the combination of cool nights and warm days allows the grapes to develop rich flavours while maintaining their acidity. The vineyards are cultivated with sustainable practices, reflecting the family’s commitment to preserving the environment.

Winemaking

The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a traditional fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. After fermentation, the wine is aged for 24 months in a mix of French and American oak barrels, adding layers of complexity and structure. Following barrel ageing, the wine is left to mature in the bottle for 36 months before release, allowing the flavours to integrate and soften. The 2015 vintage has an alcohol content of 13.5%.

Appearance

Deep ruby red with garnet reflections.

Nose

The nose is rich and complex, with aromas of ripe red fruit, blackberries, and plums, interwoven with notes of vanilla, tobacco, and spice from the oak ageing.

Palate

On the palate, Rioja Reserva 2015 is full-bodied and well-structured, with flavours of dark fruit, cedar, and earthy undertones. The tannins are smooth and refined, balanced by fresh acidity, leading to a long, elegant finish with hints of spice and leather.

Food Match

This wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats, especially lamb and beef, as well as aged cheeses and hearty stews. It also complements mushroom-based dishes and roasted vegetables, making it a versatile choice for both traditional and modern cuisine.

Accolades

• 94 points from Wine Enthusiast
• 93 points from Decanter

Background story

Bodega Ontañon is a family-owned winery in the heart of La Rioja, with a winemaking tradition that spans over five generations. Situated in the picturesque foothills of the Sierra de Yerga mountains, this estate is renowned for its deep connection to both the land and its craft, blending a respect for traditional methods with modern techniques to produce wines of exceptional quality. Ontañon’s vineyards, spread across 250 hectares, are planted primarily with Rioja’s classic grape varieties—Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Graciano—thriving in the region’s clay and limestone soils, with altitudes ranging from 400 to 800 metres above sea level. This range of terroirs allows the family to create wines that are balanced, complex, and true to their origins.

Bodega Ontañon places an emphasis on sustainability, embracing environmentally friendly practices both in the vineyard and the cellar. The family’s philosophy is centred around the concept of wine as an art form, with the winery also home to a unique collection of art that celebrates the mythological and spiritual aspects of wine culture. Ontañon’s wines, particularly their Reservas and Gran Reservas, have earned a reputation for their elegance, depth, and ageing potential, standing out as some of the finest examples of Rioja.