Rioja Vega
Initially started as the dream of one man, Don Felipe Ugalde in 1882, this winery has seen ongoing growth and development over the years. Don’s aim was simple, to be one of the countries most prestigious Bodega’s. Although his winery passed down the family line, it was through marriage that it became united with Bodegas Muerza, hence losing its identity. Today it is owned by the group Principe de Viana who acquired it in 1983 providing investment in new equipment, staff and in 2001 a new winery, 10km outside Logrono, complete with an underground ageing cellar. The new cellars incorporated modern equipment such as self-weighing hoppers, pneumatic presses and self-emptying stainless steel vats. This level of development has allowed not only the fruit from their own vineyards to be processed but also that of surrounding contract growers so that it has been able to produce this range of great value for money wines.
Tasting Notes
Bright, deep cherry red in ccolour, the bouquet is elegant, portraying a genuine expression of Tempranillo varietal character. Ripe black fruit with slightly toasted, balsamic notes of great complexity, firm, round tannins, with a well-balanced solid backbone. The mouthfeel is opulent, rich, ripe and brimming with concentrated
fruit and subtle hints of spice. The finish is long, persistent with a great finesse.
Food Matches
Roasts and grilled meats, game, cured ham and cheeses, cold cuts and oven baked fish.
Vinification
Selection at the vineyard with an average yield of 4.500 kg/Ha. Harvested on October. Light destemming to avoid damaging the berries.Fermentation in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks during 10 days, keeping the fermentationtemperature always below 29ºC. Subsequent maceration for 10 days at 17ºC prior to carrying out malolactic fermentation.