Dinastia Vivanco Rioja Reserva 2010
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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.
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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
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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,.