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Rioja Wines: Guide to Shop Rioja from Calgary Herald

Beyond the Ordinary: The Enchantment of Rioja Wines

Nestled along the Ebro River in northern Spain, Rioja boasts a diverse and captivating array of wines. Rioja offerings are renowned for superb quality and exceptional value. The region’s unique blend of climate, soil composition, and time-honored traditions fosters wines that are both approachable and sophisticated.

Why Embrace Rioja Wines?

1. A Symphony of Styles: Rioja presents a captivating selection of wine styles, encompassing reds, whites, rosés, and even sparkling wines. But it’s the reds, particularly those crafted from Tempranillo grapes, that truly steal the show with their depth and complexity.

2. The Art of Aging and Oak: A defining characteristic of Rioja wines is their aging in oak barrels. This practice imbues the wines with additional layers of flavor and texture, making them enjoyable upon release while also allowing them to mature gracefully over time.

Unveiling a Few Gems from Rioja 

Dive into some of the exceptional wines showcased in the latest feature from Calgary Herald’s Life & Food Section, each one offering a unique window into the rich tapestry of Rioja winemaking:

  • Hacienda Lopez de Haro Crianza 2020: This medium-bodied beauty boasts vibrant cherry notes with hints of raspberry, leather, vanilla, and strawberry. Aged for 14 months in French and American oak barrels, it delivers bright acidity and a juicy finish. (Pair with: hamburgers, beef stew, duck)
  • Conde Valdemar Crianza 2016: Rich and ripe, this Crianza unfolds flavors of baked plum, black cherry, and strawberry, complemented by enticing leather, spice, and mushroom notes. Plush tannins and a refreshing finish make it a true delight. (Pair with: lamb chops, roast beef, baked ham)
  • Bodegas Muga Reserva 2019: Dense and opulent, this Reserva presents a combination of black cherry, blueberry, blackcurrant, and strawberry flavors, beautifully balanced by the influence of oak. Decanting unlocks its complexity, revealing hints of leather, spice, and black licorice. (Pair with: beef tenderloin, oxtail stew, aged manchego cheese)
  • Manzanos Reserva 2018: A robust blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Garnacha grapes, this wine offers a profile of plum, black cherry, vanilla, and tobacco. Its rich and juicy character is further enhanced by earthy undertones. (Pair with: lamb shanks, New York strip steak, Spanish white bean stew with chorizo)
Lopoz-de-Haro-Crianza Hacienda Lopez de Haro
Conde-Valdemar-Reserva Conde Valdemar
Muga_Reserva Bodegas Muga
Manzanos_2018 Manzanos

Become Part of the Wine Community

Stay on top of the latest additions to their collection, exclusive offers, and captivating wine-tasting events by subscribing to our newsletter. Follow Rioja on social media for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of Rioja wines and connect with a community of fellow wine enthusiasts.

Find Rioja Near You 

Elevate your wine experience with the best of Rioja. Locate Rioja Wine near you now and raise a glass to delightful discoveries! Cheers!