Tondeluna Crianza 2021 – A Rioja Red Wine Experience
Tondeluna Crianza 2021 is a standout Spanish red wine from the famed Rioja region. This area is celebrated for Tempranillo and Garnacha-based wines. It exemplifies the rich tradition of Rioja wine with its bold fruit profile and careful oak barrel aging. This aged wine delights with a harmonious blend of ripe fruit and spice. It delivers an authentic taste of Spain in every sip. It earned a notable 90-point rating from Decanter, underscoring its quality among Rioja wines.
Tasting Notes and Aromas
Savor the enticing aromas and flavors that define this Rioja wine:
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Aroma: Intense red fruit (ripe cherry and plum) with hints of liquorice, vanilla, and oak spice.
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Palate: Medium-bodied and smooth, showing juicy berry flavors, gentle tannins, and well-integrated oak notes.
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Finish: A long, velvety finish with lingering vanilla and spice, inviting you back for another sip.
Overall, this Crianza offers a well-rounded tasting experience that will appeal to Rioja wine enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Crafting – Tempranillo & Oak Barrel Aging
This Rioja wine is crafted predominantly from Tempranillo grapes, the signature red of Spanish wine. Some Rioja blends include Garnacha (Grenache) for extra fruitiness. By contrast, Tondeluna Crianza 2021 focuses on Tempranillo. It also includes traditional varieties like Mazuelo and Graciano for added depth and structure.
After fermentation, the wine spends about 12 months maturing in oak barrels. By Spanish wine law, a Rioja red wine labeled Crianza must age at least one year in barrel. It then requires an additional year in bottle before release. It meets this quality standard, emerging as a refined yet vibrant wine ready to enjoy. American oak barrels impart classic vanilla and sweet spice notes, while a touch of French oak adds subtle complexity. The result is a beautifully balanced aged wine that marries its lively fruit with mellow oak character. Notably, it is also vegan-friendly, reflecting a pure winemaking approach.
Wine Pairing & Serving Suggestions
Tondeluna Crianza 2021 is a versatile Spanish wine that complements a range of foods. Here are some delicious wine pairing suggestions:
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Grilled or Roast Lamb: A classic Rioja wine pairing that highlights the wine's bold fruit and oak notes.
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Steak or Game: Juicy steaks or game meats (like venison) pair excellently with this red wine’s smooth tannins and spice.
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Cured Meats & Aged Cheeses: Enjoy with Spanish chorizo, jamón, or an aged Manchego cheese for a perfect food and wine match.
Serve this red at 16–18°C to fully enjoy its aromas and flavors.
Explore More Rioja Wines at Garrafeira da Ilha
If you enjoyed this Rioja wine, you might also like similar red wines available in our collection. Try the Antaño Crianza Red – an expressive Rioja aged wine known for its ruby color and velvety finish. Alternatively, explore Dinastia del Castillo Crianza La Rioja Red, a lively Spanish wine from Rioja with a youthful character. For more options, browse our selection of Rioja wines to discover the perfect Spanish red wine for any occasion. Whether you enjoy Tempranillo or Garnacha-based blends, we have something to suit every palate.