2019 Conde Valdemar Crianza ($19.99)
Valdemar Family is comprised of 334 hectares (825 acres) of family-owned vineyards spanning Bodegas Valdemar in Roija, Spain and Valdemar Estates in Walla Walla, Washington. The winemaking legacy of the Martínez Bujanda family dates back to 1889. The fifth generation siblings Ana and Jesús are currently at the helm of both estates on two continents.
“Crianza” is a word you may not have noticed on wine labels since it doesn’t immediately mean anything to an English speaker. But, one of its translations means ‘aging.’ And, indeed, this style of Rioja wine is required to be aged for at least one year in oak and spend one year or more in the bottle before being sold.
This Conde Valdemar Crianza is produced from 82% Tempranillo, 11% Mazuelo (aka Carignan), 4% Graciano and 3% Maturana that are grown in their vineyards in Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Alta.
It is deep purple in color with medium aromas of black cherry, plum and blackberry. On the palate, this medium-bodied wine has flavors of black fruit, tobacco leaf and chocolate (from the oak aging). It finishes smooth and easy with some spicy notes.
Conde Valdemar Crianza is a versatile wine with a nice balance between fruitiness and oak flavors. At this price, this wine is a perfect fit as the Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!
Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review.
Media Sample Provided by Valdemar Family via Ten27 Communications