Rioja DOCa 2019

Vineyards

Sourced from estate vineyards in Rioja Oriental, this wine benefits from the region’s clay-calcareous soils and optimal ripening conditions fostered by warm days and cool nights. These vineyards, with vines growing at altitudes between 300 and 400 metres, contribute to the wine’s depth and elegance.

Winemaking

Crafted primarily from Tempranillo, with supporting roles from Garnacha and Graciano, the grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks under controlled temperatures, preserving the natural fruit character. The wine is then aged for 12 months in a combination of French and American oak barrels, adding complexity and subtle structure.

Appearance

This wine displays a deep ruby-red colour with violet reflections, highlighting its youthful vibrancy and concentration.

Nose

The nose offers enticing aromas of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and red currants, interwoven with hints of vanilla, cedar, and a touch of dried Mediterranean herbs from its time in oak.

Palate

On the palate, the Real Agrado Rioja DOC 2019 is medium to full-bodied, showcasing flavours of black fruit and red berries with nuances of spice and savoury herbs. Well-integrated tannins provide a smooth structure, while balanced acidity adds freshness. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of dark fruit and a gentle touch of toasted oak.

Food pairing

This versatile Rioja pairs beautifully with roasted meats, cured ham, hearty stews, and semi-hard cheeses, enhancing both its fruity and savoury characteristics.

Background story

Viñedos de Alfaro, a family-owned winery in Rioja Oriental, has been producing exceptional wines since 1974 across its 100 hectares in Alfaro and Aldeanueva de Ebro. Known for cultivating native varieties such as Graciano, Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Viura, the estate practices sustainable viticulture and holds High Environmental Value (HVE) certification, reflecting its commitment to quality and environmental care.

In 2005, a state-of-the-art winery was established, enabling meticulous control from vineyard to bottle. Viñedos de Alfaro’s two ranges include the classic Real Agrado and a limited-production series of single-vineyard cuvées like Rodiles and Conde del Real Agrado, each aged in French and American oak barrels for depth and complexity. Key vineyards such as Canterabuey, Rioja’s first Viñedo Singular (Single Vineyard), and La Planas on Yerga Mountain reflect the diversity of Rioja Oriental’s terroir.

These are authentic wines that have a sense of place. Whilst honouring the region's heritage, they are also pioneers both within Rioja and in their craft as winemakers.