Embark on a journey through the sun-kissed vineyards of Rioja as we unravel the mystery behind Crianza, the backbone of this renowned Spanish wine region. From its meticulous aging process to its captivating flavors, we’ll explore why Rioja Crianza has captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide. Plus, we’ll dive into a tantalizing tasting of Altos del Rubio Rioja Crianza 2018 by Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng’s that they sent me, which will have you reaching for your corkscrew. Ready to discover your new favorite red? Let’s uncork the secrets of Rioja Crianza!
Introduction to a Rioja Crianza
Picture this: You’re strolling through a charming Spanish bodega, surrounded by rows of oak barrels filled with aging wine. The air is heavy with the rich aroma of fermenting grapes and toasted wood. This is where the magic of Rioja Crianza happens – a wine that perfectly balances youthful vigor with refined elegance.
But what exactly is a Rioja Crianza, and why should it be on every wine lover’s radar? Let’s dive into the world of this Spanish treasure and uncover what makes it so special, focusing on the delightful 2018 vintage from Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng.
The Essence of Rioja Crianza:
Rioja Crianza is more than just a wine; it’s a testament to tradition and craftsmanship. To earn the Crianza designation, a red Rioja wine must age for a minimum of two years, with at least one year spent in oak barrels. This careful aging process imparts distinctive characteristics that set Crianza apart from its younger counterparts.
Key Features of Rioja Crianza:
- Grape Varieties: Primarily made from Tempranillo grapes, often blended with Garnacha, Mazuelo, or Graciano.
- Aging Requirements: Minimum two years total aging, with at least one year in oak barrels.
- Flavor Profile: A harmonious balance of fruit and oak influences.
- Alcohol Content: Typically ranges between 13.5% to 14.5% ABV.
- Serving Temperature: Best enjoyed at 16-18°C (60-64°F).
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does Crianza differ from other Rioja classifications?
Crianza sits between the youthful Joven and the more mature Reserva and Gran Reserva. It offers a perfect middle ground, with enough aging to develop complexity without losing its fresh fruit character.
What foods pair well with Rioja Crianza?
Crianza’s versatility shines at the dinner table. It pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled meats, especially lamb and pork
- Aged cheeses
- Tomato-based pasta dishes
- Spanish tapas like chorizo and jamón ibérico
How long can I cellar a Rioja Crianza?
While Crianzas are typically ready to drink upon release, they can often age gracefully for 3-8 years, developing more nuanced flavors.
Personal tasting notes: Spotlight on Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng Altos del Rubio Rioja Crianza 2018
Let’s bring our Crianza exploration to life by tasting the exceptional 2018 Rioja Crianza from Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng. This wine embodies the quality and character that have made Rioja Crianza a global favorite.
Appearance: Medium ruby red with a bright garnet rim, reflecting its perfect aging.
Nose: An enticing bouquet of ripe red berries, particularly strawberries and sour red cherries but also blackberries and blueberries, intertwined with subtle vanilla and spice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and toast notes from oak aging. A hint of Mediterranean herbs adds complexity. It’s beautiful and attractive, love it!
Palate: Medium-bodied with a silky texture, this 2018 Crianza dances across the palate. The initial burst of juicy red fruit gives way to complex layers of tobacco, cocoa, and a touch of licorice. Well-integrated high tannins provide structure without overwhelming the fruit, and medium (+) acidity gives it a good boost.
Finish: Long and satisfying, with lingering notes of red fruit and a pleasant hint of oak-derived spice, complemented by a subtle minerality characteristic of Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng’s terroir.
This Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng 2018 Crianza showcases the perfect harmony between fruit and oak that defines great Rioja Crianza. You can really feel the longer bottle aging of this 2018 wine when drinking it in 2024, making it a perfect example of how a Crianza can develop in the bottle. It’s a wine that’s equally at home with a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration.
The Rise of Rioja Crianza:
Rioja Crianza’s popularity has soared in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. According to the Consejo Regulador DOCa Rioja, Crianza wines accounted for 45% of all Rioja wines sold, making it the most popular category among consumers.
What’s driving this trend? Several factors contribute:
- Affordability: Crianza offers exceptional value, delivering complex flavors at a more accessible price point than Reserva or Gran Reserva wines.
- Versatility: Its balanced profile makes it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned wine enthusiasts.
- Food-Friendliness: Crianza’s moderate tannins and acidity make it an excellent companion to a wide range of cuisines.
- Quality Improvements: Rioja winemakers, including Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng, have significantly invested in vineyard management and winemaking techniques, elevating the overall quality of Crianza wines.
Conclusion:
Rioja Crianza is more than just a wine classification – it’s a gateway to the heart and soul of Spanish winemaking. With its perfect balance of fruit-forward charm and oak-derived complexity, Crianza offers wine lovers an accessible entry point into the world of fine Rioja wines.
The Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng Altos del Rubio 2018 Rioja Crianza we explored today is a shining example of what makes this category so appealing. It embodies the rich tradition of Rioja winemaking while showcasing the unique terroir and expertise of its producers.
Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned oenophile, exploring Rioja Crianza promises a journey filled with delightful discoveries. From its rich history to its modern-day innovations, from its versatility at the table to its aging potential, Crianza embodies the very best of what Rioja has to offer.
So, the next time you’re perusing the wine aisle or scanning a restaurant wine list, consider reaching for a Rioja Crianza, particularly the 2018 vintage from Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng. You might just find your new favorite everyday luxury – a taste of Spanish sunshine and tradition in every glass. ¡Salud!
Thanks for sending me this bottle Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng!
More information about Viñedo y Bodegas Lyng: https://www.bodegaslyng.es/
