Description

Bodegas Faustino has been located in Oyón, Rioja Alavesa for 150 years. Four generations later they are still making some beautiful wines. Their Icon Faustino I Gran Reserva is one for your cellar.

D.O Rioja

A large and varied region and Spain’s quality flagship. Sub-regions Alta and Alavesa are the high altitude cooler parts that show elegant and almost Burgundian Tempranillo wines. Baja is the low hot lands sub region where Garnacha (Grenache) becomes more important. Producer is the most important determiner of quality as products range from traditional savoury wines to modern silky, pure wines. The whites can be neutral and simple through to pretty and silky affairs.

Tempranillo

Top quality grape grown all over the Peninsula (with many pseudonyms). It can be used for Rosado or Joven (released after 6 months) all the way up to Gran Reserva (60 months in the winery). It ages very well and top examples are said to compare to Burgundy. Cherry and cola are typical descriptors, it has moderate to low acid, moderate tannin and the naturally high pH allows for a silky mouthfeel that is not seen in other red wines.

Graciano

Used almost entirely as a blending grape around Rioja. It can add acidity to balance the naturally low acid Tempranillo. It also adds deep colour and dark fruits. While it was historically important to help a blend age well it fall out of favour for it’s low yields.

Carignan AKA Mazuelo, Cariñena and Samsó.

This is a French variety that is often used as a bit player in a blend, generally it involves Grenache. It’s late ripening can be problematic or a good insurance policy. In a blend it brings dark colour, high acid and tannin.