At a glance

Producer

Remelluri

Region

Rioja, Spain

Grape variety

Tempranillo (with Garnacha, Graciano, and other varieties blended)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$35-$55 USD

Tasting profile

Intense red and black cherry, plum, sandalwood, tobacco, dried herbs, floral and earthy mineral notes. Fresh, well-integrated oak.

Evolution: Will continue to develop more balsamic, leathery, and truffle notes with age; fruit complexity to deepen.

At peak: Complex bouquet, supple palate, vivid acidity and harmony of fruit, spice, earth.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-high

Tannins

Firm but fine-grained

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

Excellent; holds for 10-15+ years past vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2032

Optimal window

2023 to 2034

Current status

Drinking well, with further evolution possible

Current condition

Structured; youthful with integrated tertiary notes emerging

Rioja Reservas such as Remelluri’s are crafted for both early enjoyment and extended aging. 2016 is an excellent vintage, already harmonious but with the structure to improve for over a decade due to balanced fruit, acidity, and tannin.

Food pairing

Roast lamb, aged Manchego, mushroom risotto, chargrilled beef, game birds.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has firm but fine-grained tannins and is medium-bodied, which suggests it can benefit from aeration to soften the tannins and enhance its aromatic profile.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Dry-farming in high-altitude vineyards; no agrochemicals or systemic treatments; use of compost & green manure. Flora and wildlife corridors preserved. Winery uses renewable energy and gravity flow. Lightweight bottles; minimal packaging.

Remelluri is a leader in Rioja for organic and biodynamic viticulture, fully dry-farmed, chemical-free, and committed to biodiversity. The estate uses recycled packaging, light bottles, and renewable energy in winemaking. Most vineyards are hand-worked, keeping mechanization (and thus fuel use) low. The majority of wine is consumed within Spain/EU, reducing trans-oceanic shipping impacts. Overall, Remelluri demonstrates a deep, longstanding commitment to regenerative agricultural principles and environmental stewardship.