Rioja Solo Mazuelo DOCa 2015

A rare single-varietal wine crafted from 100% Mazuelo, a grape more commonly known as Carignan. Very limited production.

Vineyards

The Mazuelo grapes for this wine are sourced from a small, 35-year-old vineyard located at 600 metres above sea level in the Sierra de Yerga region. The stony, poor soils and Mediterranean-influenced climate provide ideal conditions for slow, even ripening, resulting in grapes with intense flavours and balanced acidity. The vineyard is farmed organically, with great care taken to preserve the health of the soil and the natural ecosystem.

Winemaking

After a manual harvest, the grapes are fermented in small stainless steel tanks with natural yeasts, allowing the wine to develop a true sense of place. The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels, where it is aged for 12 months. The 2015 vintage is noted for its purity of fruit and balanced structure, with an alcohol content of 13.5%. Minimal intervention is used throughout the winemaking process to let the grape and terroir shine.

Appearance

Deep ruby red with violet hues.

Nose

The nose reveals a captivating bouquet of blackberries, blackcurrants, and dark plums, layered with hints of spices, cedar, and balsamic notes. Subtle earthy undertones add complexity.

Palate

Full-bodied and robust, with flavours of dark berries, black cherries, and spices. The wine has firm, yet finely structured tannins, balanced by a refreshing acidity. The long, persistent finish offers notes of minerals, oak, and a touch of smoke.

Food pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats, especially lamb, beef, and game dishes. It is also an excellent match for hard cheeses, charcuterie, and spicy stews. Solo Mazuelo’s bold character allows it to stand up to rich, hearty flavours.

Accolades

92 points from Tim Atkin MW

Background story

Arizcuren Bodega y Viñedos is a boutique winery in Rioja, Spain, dedicated to producing small-batch, terroir-driven wines that reflect the rich heritage and unique microclimates of the region. Founded by Javier Arizcuren, an architect-turned-winemaker, the winery is committed to reviving traditional winemaking methods and showcasing the true potential of the Sierra de Yerga vineyards. With a deep respect for the land and a focus on sustainability, Arizcuren carefully cultivates old vine Garnacha and Graciano, alongside other native varietals, from hand-tended, organic vineyards.

Javier’s approach is one of minimal intervention, allowing the distinctive qualities of the high-altitude vineyards, with their stony soils and Mediterranean influences, to shape the character of the wines. Arizcuren’s philosophy emphasises precision viticulture, with each wine capturing the essence of its terroir, resulting in pure, elegant wines with a strong sense of place. Since its inception, the winery has earned widespread recognition for its innovative and artisanal approach to winemaking, offering a modern interpretation of Rioja’s historic vineyards.