2018 Bodegas Valdemar Conde Valdemar Rioja Crianza

Predominantly (89%) Tempranillo with a dash of Mazuelo and Graciano, this is a medium-plus, classic style of Rioja that highlights black fruit tones. Dark cherry, currants, and blueberries frame the palate, which is supported by the delightful vanilla-coconut tones of American oak aging that gives red Rioja its trademark style.

Considered one of the best wineries in Rioja, Valdemar’s history stretches back to the 1880s and includes major breakthroughs in Rioja history, including the very first barrel-fermented white wine. They’ve enhanced the classics, revived dead grape varieties, and forged new styles that continually reimagine what Rioja is and can be.

Winemakers Ana and Jesus Martinez Bujanda Mora took the reins from their father, renowned winemaker Jesus Martinez Bujanda, realizing his vision and creating their own.  The brother, Jesus Jr., was recently recognized in Wine Enthusiast’s highly coveted 40-under-40 list for pioneering expansions to Washington State’s Walla Walla region.

The family is highly focused on sustainable viticulture, which fits within their mission to promote obscure, nearly extinct indigenous varieties that thrive in the area and demonstrate incredible, terroir-driven expressions. They are widely credited with reviving Tempranillo Blanco, Graciano, and Maturana.