Why Aged Spanish Wines are True Treasures

When it comes to wine, Spain has a rich history and a well-deserved reputation for producing some of the finest ones in the world. While many wine enthusiasts may be familiar with the bold and vibrant flavors of young Spanish wines, it is the aged Spanish wines that truly stand out as treasures, and when you order wine online, you want the best. These wines, with their complex aromas, harmonious flavors, and unparalleled character, are a testament to the dedication and expertise of Spanish winemakers. In this article, we will delve into the world of aged Spanish wines and explore the profiles of four exceptional vintages: the 2011 Vega-Sicilia Unico Ribera del Duero, the 2016 Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5º Ribera del Duero, the 2010 Marques de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial, and the 2011 Marques de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial. These represent the perfection from Spain’s two most famous regions: Rioja and Ribera del Duero. Best of all they’re available from the best wine store USA, Bottle Barn. 

The Art of Aging Spanish Wines 

Aging wine is an art form that requires patience, skill, and the perfect conditions. Spanish winemakers have mastered this art, and their dedication to preserving the essence of their grapes is evident in every bottle of aged wine. The process begins with selecting the finest grapes from carefully tended vineyards. The grapes are then skillfully fermented and aged in oak barrels, allowing the wine to develop complex flavors and aromas. Both Rioja and Ribera del Duero have specific requirements for ageing in oak barrels of 225 liters. But the journey does not end there. Aged wines are left to rest in the bottle for several years, sometimes even decades, as they mature and evolve, reaching their peak expression. These older wines also represent a specific epoch in the history of Spanish wine production: a unique flavor profile you will find nowhere else. 

2011 Vega-Sicilia Unico Ribera del Duero 

One of Spain's most iconic and renowned wines, the 2011 Vega-Sicilia Unico Ribera del Duero, is a true gem. Crafted from a blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine spent more than a decade in oak barrels before its release. On the nose, it reveals a symphony of dark berries, cedar, leather, and exotic spices. The palate is rich and opulent, with velvety tannins and a perfect balance of acidity. With every sip, the 2011 Vega-Sicilia Unico Ribera del Duero takes you on a journey through time, showcasing the true potential of aged Spanish wines. 

2016 Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5º Ribera del Duero 

Another masterpiece from the Vega Sicilia estate when you buy wine online, the 2016 Valbuena 5º Ribera del Duero, offers a more youthful expression compared to its older sibling. Composed of Tempranillo, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine boasts a beautiful garnet hue and an enticing bouquet of red fruits, herbs, and balsamic notes. Despite its relative youth, the Valbuena 5º displays remarkable depth and complexity, a testament to the winemaker's expertise. As it continues to age, this wine promises to evolve into an even more enchanting and sophisticated elixir. 

2010 Marques de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial 

In the heart of Rioja, Marques de Murrieta has been crafting exceptional wines for over 160 years. The 2010 Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial is a true reflection of the winery's legacy. A blend dominated by Tempranillo, with a touch of Mazuelo, this wine captivates with its deep ruby color and captivating aromas of ripe berries, vanilla, and toasty oak. On the palate, it exhibits a wonderful balance between fruit, acidity, and fine-grained tannins. The 2010 Castillo Ygay showcases the classic elegance and timelessness of Rioja wines, making it a true treasure from Spain. 

2011 Marques de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial 

The 2011 vintage of the Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial is a sibling to the 2010 edition, yet it possesses its unique personality and charm. Also crafted predominantly from Tempranillo and complemented by Mazuelo, this wine displays a slightly more modern profile with a touch of exuberance. It delights the senses with an array of red and black fruit aromas, hints of sweet spice, and a subtle earthiness. The palate is a delightful interplay of flavors, with layers of complexity that unveil themselves slowly with each sip. The 2011 Castillo Ygay demonstrates the diversity and artistry found within the world of aged Spanish wines. 

In sum, mature Spanish wines are true treasures that exemplify the artistry and dedication of Spanish winemakers. These wines stand the test of time, gracefully evolving and maturing into complex elixirs that captivate the senses and tell the story of their origins. Available from the wine store California, The 2011 Vega-Sicilia Unico Ribera del Duero, 2016 Vega Sicilia Valbuena 5º Ribera del Duero, 2010 Marques de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial, and the 2011 Marques de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Rioja Gran Reserva Especial are shining examples of this craftsmanship. Their profiles are a testament to the unique character that aged Spanish wines offer, and they deserve a place of honor in any wine enthusiast's collection. So, the next time you buy wine online, choose a bottle of aged Spanish wine, embrace the opportunity to experience the true treasures of Spain's winemaking heritage.