The Crushed Grape

Rioja Vega Reserva 2019

Regular price £18.99

A beautifully mature expression of classic Rioja, offering exceptional elegance, depth and balance.

Crafted predominantly from Tempranillo and aged for an extended period in oak before bottle maturation, this Reserva displays layers of ripe blackberries, cherries and plums intertwined with notes of vanilla, cedar, sweet spice and tobacco.

Smooth, refined tannins and a long, savoury finish make this an outstanding choice for those who appreciate traditional Rioja with genuine ageing character.

Rich enough for special occasions yet approachable enough to enjoy today, Rioja Vega Reserva is a timeless Spanish classic that offers remarkable quality and value.

Details
Spain
Rioja
Tempranillo
750ml
14%
2019
Regular price £18.99
Description

Founded in 1882, Rioja Vega is one of the oldest and most respected names in Rioja, with a long-standing reputation for producing elegant wines that honour the region's rich winemaking heritage. Combining carefully selected fruit with traditional ageing techniques, the winery creates wines that balance ripe fruit with the complexity that only time in oak and bottle can achieve.

The Reserva is produced primarily from Tempranillo grown in selected vineyards across Rioja, where warm days and cool nights allow the grapes to ripen slowly while retaining freshness and balance. Following fermentation, the wine spends at least 24 months in American oak barrels, followed by extended bottle ageing before release. This careful maturation develops the signature Reserva style - silky, complex and wonderfully harmonious.

The excellent 2019 vintage has produced a wine of impressive concentration and finesse, combining generous fruit with beautifully integrated oak and the elegant structure for which Rioja Reserva is renowned.

Style

Rioja Vega Reserva is a medium- to full-bodied red that's smooth, elegant and wonderfully balanced. Extended ageing in oak gives the wine layers of vanilla, cedar and gentle spice while allowing the fruit to remain vibrant and expressive.

Unlike heavier, more powerful reds, this wine focuses on finesse and complexity rather than sheer weight. If you enjoy wines such as Côtes du Rhône, Chianti Classico or smooth Cabernet Sauvignon, but are looking for a wine with greater elegance and beautifully integrated oak, Rioja Vega Reserva is an excellent choice.

  • Nose: Expressive aromas of ripe blackberries, cherries and red plums are layered with vanilla, cedar, sweet baking spices, tobacco and a subtle touch of leather.
  • Palate: Smooth and beautifully balanced, offering ripe dark fruit alongside notes of vanilla, toasted oak, cocoa and gentle spice. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity provide excellent structure without overpowering the fruit.
  • Finish: Long, elegant and persistent, leaving lingering flavours of dark berries, sweet spice, vanilla and savoury oak.
  • Roast Lamb – The wine's silky tannins and savoury spice perfectly complement tender lamb.
  • Grilled Ribeye Steak – Rich beef flavours pair beautifully with the wine's depth and oak character.
  • Slow-Cooked Beef – Long cooking enhances the wine's ripe fruit and gentle spice.
  • Mature Manchego Cheese – Nutty flavours bring out the wine's complexity.
  • Duck Breast – Rich, succulent duck balances the wine's fresh acidity and refined tannins.
  • Charcuterie Boards – A versatile match for cured meats and aged cheeses.
  • Serve at 16–18°C – The ideal temperature to showcase its fruit and oak complexity.
  • Decant for 30 minutes – Allows the wine to fully open and reveal its aromatic depth.
  • Use a large red wine glass – Enhances the bouquet and silky texture.
  • Drink now or cellar – Ready to enjoy today, with the potential to develop further over the next 5–8 years.
Available for pickup at
Derrylin
Usually ready in 24 hours

5 The Market Place
Derrylin
Enniskillen BT92 9AN
United Kingdom

+442867748550