Dinastia Vivanco Rioja Reserva 2010
Dense notes of tobacco and chocolate are layered over ultra-ripe tannins and glass-staining opacity. The opulent texture gives tones of smoky vanilla, musk, sweet earth, and damp forest floor in its grip, slowly releasing savory notes into a finish of fresh red fruit and quince. Made from 90% Tempranillo(giving a host of red fruit and alchohol) and 10% Graciano(given intensity, tannins and power), this wine fuses elegance and power as well as tradition+modernity.
That elegance is enhanced from its origin,Rioja Alta, ts relatively sparse vine density of mere 3,100-3,600 vines/hectare, the marl soil structure, and it’s 500+ meters elevatiion above ground(hence, cooler rearing). That power is attributable to the nurture from the mixed Bush & wire system, as well as from the old vines of 35+ years of age which are hand-harvested in October following careful analysis in the vineyard to ensure phenolic ripeness.Each vineyard was fermented separately in small French oak vats. 24 months in 50% new and 50% previously-used French, followed by 4 months in large French oak vats for better integration. Traditionally made, it is cellared classically for 24 months in bottle. The wine feels contemporary and modern because there is a clean yet integrated palate: the grapes were stored in cooling chambers for a minimum of 30 hours. ABV is merely 13.5%.
Juan Gris' Still Life graces the label. Many of Gris’ paintings are linked to
wine, but this particular piece is on display at the Vivanco Museum. The complexity and elegance of this work remind of the winery’s Reserva.
This humble wine is a WS92. some 5 years' bottle-ageing makes this wine almost perfect to taste now,.
