Ramon Bilbao Rioja Reserva 2018

' Ramon Bilbao is a renowned Spanish winery based in Rioja, known for producing high-quality wines that blend tradition with innovation. Established in 1924, the winery specializes in crafting elegant, complex wines, with a focus on Tempranillo grapes. Their top-tier wine, Mirto, is made from old vines in select vineyards and is produced only in exceptional years, reflecting the excellence and craftsmanship that define the Ramon Bilbao legacy. Reserva is a wine that perfectly blends the classic elements of Rioja, like Tempranillo and American oak, with the unique personality and style of Ramon Bilbao. It has a distinct complexity, with red fruit aromas and a balanced, elegant oak character. The wine is fresh with well-integrated acidity, a full body, a long finish, and smooth tannins. The grapes were macerated for 4 days before fermenting for 18 days. The malolactic fermentation took place in concrete tanks, followed by 20 months of aging in American oak barrels. After that, the wine was aged in the bottle to reach perfect harmony before being released. The season had a long, harsh, and rainy winter, causing a 15-day delay compared to other years. Despite this, the grapes reached perfect ripeness and balance, and the harvest started in early September. Production was 10% higher than average, and the vintage was rated ''Good'' by the Regulatory Council. '