2009 Remelluri Reserva

2009 Remelluri Reserva

Classic Rioja of precision and balance, from the first year in which only grapes from the estate were used.

The 2009 Remelluri Reserva marks a significant turning point within the estate. This is the first modern vintage in which only grapes from their own vineyards were used. Telmo Rodríguez consciously chose to no longer use purchased grapes in this wine, resulting in a purer expression of the Remelluri terroir.

Remelluri Winery

Remelluri is a historic winery in Rioja Alavesa with origins in the Middle Ages and in the hands of the Rodríguez family since the 20th century. Under the leadership of Telmo Rodríguez, the emphasis is on terroir, estate vineyards, and minimal intervention. The estate was one of the first in Rioja to move away from purchased grapes and focus entirely on provenance. The style is refined, classic, and focused on balance and structure. More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Region, climate and location

The vineyards are located in Rioja Alavesa, at the foot of the Sierra de Toloño. This area is characterized by calcareous soils and a temperate climate with Atlantic influences. The altitude and location ensure fresh acidity and a slow ripening of the grapes. The 2009 vintage was warmer, but Remelluri's relatively cool location ensured that the wine retained its balance and freshness, with controlled ripeness and a clear structure.

Vineyards and grape varieties

The grapes for this wine come entirely from Remelluri's own vineyards, situated at various altitudes with soils of limestone, clay, and stony structures. The vines are of a high average age and yield concentrated fruit with a clear terroir expression. The blend consists primarily of Tempranillo, complemented by traditional Rioja varieties that contribute to complexity and structure.

Harvest, vinification and aging

The harvest was carried out manually with a strict selection of the grapes. Fermentation was controlled to achieve a balanced extraction. The wine subsequently aged for several years in oak barrels, ensuring the integration of wood and the development of tertiary aromas. The style remains focused on balance and structure, with the wood acting in a supporting role rather than being dominant.

Color, smell and taste

The wine displays a deep ruby red color with slight evolution. The aroma reveals notes of red fruit, earth, and dried herbs, complemented by subtle influences of vanilla and cinnamon. This combination creates a classic and recognizable Rioja profile.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a satiny texture. The tannins are round and fine-grained, resulting in a smooth and balanced structure. The acidity is well integrated and adds freshness to the whole. The wine has a classic structure with a clear balance between fruit, spiciness, and wood. The finish is long and refined, with a gradual development of aromas and a stable structure that unfolds beautifully in the glass.

Development and drinking window

No specific drinking window is mentioned, but given the structure and balance, this wine is currently in a beautifully developed phase. The wine displays both primary and tertiary aromas.

Summary of professional reviews

Luis Gutiérrez awarded this wine 93 points for The Wine Advocate and describes a very successful vintage with a classic style. The wine stands out for its pure expression of red fruit, earthy notes, and spicy accents, combined with a satiny texture and fine tannins. The balance and proportion are rated as particularly strong. The full review texts can be found in the tab: Professional reviews.

Wine & Food Pairing and Discount

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. In the Food tab, you will find advice on what to look for for the right food and wine pairing, and a number of dish suggestions from our Sommelier.