Frequently Asked Questions
The **Faustino V Reserva Rioja** is a distinguished 2018 vintage red wine from Spain's Rioja Alavesa region, crafted by the esteemed Bodegas Faustino. Blending **92% Tempranillo** and **8% Mazuelo**, this Reserva is aged for **24 months in American oak barrels** followed by **12+ months in bottle**, exceeding DOCa Rioja requirements for depth and complexity. Offering aromas of **ripe blackberries, plums, and sweet toasted oak** with subtle notes of cocoa and truffle, the palate is elegantly structured with fine-grained tannins, layered dark fruit flavors, and a lingering finish of dried fruit and spice. Award-winning and versatile, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, aged cheeses, and berry desserts, embodying the balance and tradition of Rioja winemaking.
Process & Profile
Faustino V Reserva is a blend of 92% Tempranillo and 8% Mazuelo, sourced from the calcareous soils of Rioja Alavesa. The grapes undergo a meticulous fermentation process followed by 16 months of aging in American oak barrels, imparting richness and complexity. Afterward, the wine is aged for at least 24 months in the bottle, ensuring an additional layer of refinement before it reaches your glass. This dedication to quality and time results in a wine with a beautifully smooth texture and elegant depth. Key facts:- Appellation: DOCa Rioja, Spain
- Aging: 16 months in American oak, 24+ months in bottle
- Alcohol Content: 13.5%
- Varietal Composition: 92% Tempranillo, 8% Mazuelo
Tasting Notes
Faustino V Reserva's luxurious profile is both balanced and vibrant:- Appearance: A brilliant cherry red hue transitioning to maroon.
- Aroma: Intensely aromatic with ripe black fruit notes such as plum and blackberry, accentuated by sweet vanilla, balsamic undertones, and hints of toasted oak.
- Palate: Silky and well-structured, offering flavors of cocoa, cedar, and clove spice, complemented by a touch of dried fruits and sweet spices. The long, elegant finish leaves a lasting impression of sophistication.
What Makes It Special
- Legacy and Prestige: Coming from Bodegas Faustino, a six-generation family-owned winery founded in 1861, Faustino V Reserva embodies the artistry and expertise of one of Rioja's most iconic producers.
- Double the Aging Requirement: This Reserva surpasses DOCa Rioja's aging standards, with twice the required barrel aging for enhanced depth and flavor.
- Award-Winning Excellence: Recognized internationally, the Faustino V Reserva boasts accolades from competitions such as the Wine Enthusiast and Berliner Wine Trophy, reflecting its world-class quality.
How to Enjoy
Faustino V Reserva Rioja is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:- Food Pairings: Ideal with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, hearty pastas, oily fish like tuna, and medium-aged cheeses. It also complements berry desserts.
- Serving Temperature: Serve slightly chilled, at 16-18°C (60-64°F), to bring out its full flavor profile.
- Occasions: This wine is perfect for celebrations, intimate dinners, or as a thoughtful gift for wine enthusiasts. It's also an excellent choice for cellaring, as it continues to develop complexity with age.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grapes are used to make the Faustino V Reserva Rioja?
The Faustino V Reserva is made primarily from 92% Tempranillo grapes and 8% Mazuelo, sourced from the Rioja Alavesa subregion.
How is the Faustino V Reserva aged?
This wine is aged for a minimum of 24 months in American oak barrels, followed by at least 12 additional months in the bottle before release.
What does the Faustino V Reserva taste like?
The wine is known for its elegant and balanced profile. It features aromas of ripe black fruits like raisins, complemented by balsamic notes, cocoa, and a sweet hint of toasted oak. On the palate, it has a smooth texture, subtle tannins, and flavors of cocoa intertwined with ripe fruits, culminating in a lingering finish with dried fruit and sweet spice nuances.
What food pairings work well with Faustino V Reserva Rioja?
This wine pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, including roast meats like lamb, grilled foods, oily fish such as tuna or cod, and medium-aged cheeses. It also complements rice dishes, pasta, mushrooms, and even fruity desserts.
What is special about the Rioja region where this wine is produced?
Rioja is one of Spain's most renowned wine regions, protected by the Cantabrian mountains, which create an ideal climate for grape growing. The soils in Rioja Alavesa, where this wine is produced, are calcareous, contributing to the wine's aromatic complexity and warmth.
What is the recommended serving temperature for Faustino V Reserva?
This wine is best enjoyed slightly below room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 18°C (59°F to 64°F) to fully appreciate its balance of flavors and aromas.
What distinguishes a Reserva from other Rioja classifications?
A Reserva wine like Faustino V undergoes a longer aging process compared to younger classifications. It is aged for a minimum of three years, including at least one year in oak barrels, resulting in greater complexity and structure.
Does Faustino V Reserva have any notable accolades?
Yes, the Faustino V Reserva has received numerous awards, including being named Best Spanish Red and sixth in the world by Wine Enthusiast in 2024. Specific vintages have also earned high scores and medals in international competitions.
How does the American oak influence the flavor of Faustino V Reserva?
The use of American oak barrels imparts distinctive notes of vanilla, coconut, and sweet spices, enhancing the wine's overall complexity and smoothness.
What occasions is Faustino V Reserva Rioja suitable for?
With its refined character, this wine is an excellent choice for celebrations, fine dining, or simply savoring a quiet evening with good food and company.
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