Finca Valpiedra Tempranillo Rioja 2015 750ml

Finca Valpiedra stands as one of Rioja's most prestigious single estates, and their 2015 grand vin represents the pinnacle of what this exceptional terroir can produce. Now approaching a decade of age, this wine is entering a magical phase where primary fruit begins to yield to the complex secondary characteristics that define great mature Rioja.

The wine presents a deep garnet color with subtle brick tones emerging at the rim. On the nose, the 2015 Finca Valpiedra offers profound complexity—ripe black fruits have evolved to show notes of dried cherry, fig, and plum, interwoven with leather, tobacco, and sweet spices. The single-estate character shines through in distinctive mineral notes of iron, graphite, and wet earth. The oak, primarily French with some American, has fully integrated, adding notes of cedar, vanilla, and exotic spices without dominating. Subtle tertiary notes of mushroom, truffle, and herbs indicate perfect evolution.

The palate delivers everything expected from a great estate in a great vintage. The texture is supremely elegant, with tannins that have softened to a silky smoothness while maintaining enough structure to promise continued evolution. Complex flavors flood the palate—dried fruits, leather, tobacco, and spices mingle with mineral and earth notes. The balance is exemplary, with fresh acidity lifting the mature flavors and preventing any sense of tiredness. This is Rioja at its most sophisticated, showing both power and elegance in perfect proportion.

The 2015 Finca Valpiedra justifies its reputation as one of Rioja's blue-chip wines. The single-estate philosophy ensures consistency and character, while the excellent vintage has produced a wine of exceptional quality. The finish is extraordinarily long and complex, with waves of flavor that continue to evolve for minutes. This is wine for special occasions, perfectly paired with prime beef, lamb, or game. A reminder of why single-vineyard Rioja commands such respect and attention.