Valenciso Rioja Reserva presents a sophisticated bouquet of savoury aromatics interwoven with delicate violet and blackberry perfume. This DOCa Rioja exemplifies the refinement characteristic of the region, delivering a tightly structured palate with concentrated fruit, nuanced spice, and silky tannins. The wine's impressive complexity and purity make it an exceptional choice for pairing with red meats, robust cheeses, and game dishes.

Critic Review

Decanter Magazine: 93Pts (2019 Vintage)
Drinking Window: 2025 - 2035

"The fleshy back fruit is perfectly integrated with the subtle savouriness of thyme, wild oregano, macerated sage and mint. Broody tobacco and coffee beans play in the blackground and there is a subtle, moreish hint of molasses. This is focused and deep, with some potential to age further in bottle."
Ines Salpico

About the Producer

Valenciso was established in 1998 as a collaboration between ex Bodegas Palacios’ Luis Valentin and Carmen Enciso. With a wealth of experience in Rioja wine production, they decided to focus on just one style of wine - a classically structured, subtle and elegantly fine Reserva.

Situated in the town of Ollauri, just 4 km from Haro, they are at the north-west limit of Rioja Alta - with vineyards in Ollauri, Briones, Haro, Rodezno and Villalba. At altitudes of 400-600m, the climate here has a strong Atlantic influence, and the wind that blows in the summer evenings cools the grapes to enhance acidity, finesse and aromatic complexity.

From the very beginning Luis and Carmen have had a clear vision. They follow sustainable viticulture, do not use irrigation, and do not fine their wine. Significantly, they use concrete tanks for vinification, a strong statement when across Rioja traditional concrete tanks have been replaced with stainless steel. But they believe this is best in order to craft wines with longevity, and maintain freshness and vibrancy.

It is this quiet determination, integrity and emphasis on quality that have made this small winery one of the most respected by Rioja lovers and wine writers alike. The results speak for themselves.

Vineyard and Winery

Currently in transition to fully organic status, Valenciso has been working in an organic, and in some instances biodynamic, manner for quite some time. In partnership with Enonatura, Valenciso has instigated a comprehensive sustainability programme in its vineyards and its winery. They do not use herbicides, pesticides or insecticides.

Harvested in October - the winery follow sustainable viticulture and are moving towards organic practice. Aged for 17 months in French oak barrels, less than 3 years old; one third of which are renewed annually.