By Bodegas Ugalde
Vina Cerrada Rioja Reserva 2017

Technical Details
Wine: Vina Cerrada Reserva
Vintage: 2017
Grape Variety: Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo
Region: Rioja, Spain

Viticulture
The grapes for this wine come from an old vineyard of over 50 years of age situated on the slopes of the Sierra de Cantabria, as well as from a 15-year-old vineyard within the estate. The work on the vineyards has been specifically focused on achieving a healthy fruit with a total phenolic ripeness. This has resulted in a well-structured wine on the palate and a powerful nose full of fruit aromas.

Winemaking
Alcoholic fermentation for eight days at 28 degrees C. Maceration in contact with the skin for seven days. Malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks.

Aging
Two years aging in used American oak barrels, with 5% of the wine in French oak, followed by a minimum of twelve months bottle aging before release.

Tasting Notes
Clean and bright cherry red. On the nose, intense fruit is accompanied by toasted aromas, toffee, and vanilla. On the palate, full and velvety and well balanced.
[Information provided by V and N Cellars]

Vina Cerrada 2017 Reserva (Rioja)
Rating: 92
Price: $40
Designation: Reserva
Variety: Tempranillo Blend, Tempranillo
Appellation: Rioja, Northern Spain, Spain
Winery: Vina Cerrada
Alcohol: 14.00%
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Category: Red
Importer: Cuddihy Wine Importers
Date Published: 4/1/2022
Reviewed by: Mike Desimone
Aromas of dark plum, black currant and freshly ground coffee waft from this dark violet-red wine. It starts out spicy and then fruit flavors spread across the palate. Sleek tannins provide a backdrop for flavors of blackberry, strawberry, clove, licorice and orange zest with a note of chamomile tea on the finish.

Ugalde 2017 Rioja Reserva Vina Cerrada red blend
Rating: 87
Scents of dill and toast show the oak influence on this earthy red. It’s smooth and rich, with elements of volatility and some raisined edges to the fruit. For a braise.
4Front, Lewisburg, OH
(12/21)